Collecting coins is not only a fascinating hobby but can also be a lucrative endeavor when it comes to error coins. Error coins are coins that have deviations from the standard minting process, making them unique and valuable.
In the 2000s, several notable U.S. Mint error coins emerged, and some of these are worth a fortune to collectors. Below, we explore the top 7 valuable error coins from the 2000s, their characteristics, and their market values. Let’s get to it!
Top 7 Valuable Error Coins from the 2000s
1. 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar and Washington Quarter Mule Error
This is one of the most famous and valuable error coins of the 2000s. The mule error occurs when the obverse (head side) of a Washington Quarter is paired with the reverse (tail side) of a Sacagawea Dollar. Approximately 20 known examples of this error exist, and these coins have sold for around $100,000 to $125,000 at auction.
2. 2005-D Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel
The 2005-D Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel is a striking error where a die gouge on the reverse side gives the appearance of a spear piercing the bison’s back.
This visual error is popular among collectors, and specimens in mint condition can fetch several thousand dollars.
3. 2007 “Godless” Presidential Dollar
The 2007 “Godless” Presidential Dollar received its name because the inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” was mistakenly left off the edge of some coins.
These missing inscriptions make the coin highly sought after. Depending on the condition, the value of this error coin can range from $30 to $2,000.
4. 2009-D District of Columbia Double Die Quarter
The 2009-D District of Columbia quarter has an error known as a doubled die, where the inscriptions on the reverse side show noticeable doubling.
This error occurred during the minting process and can significantly increase the coin’s value, with some fetching prices as high as $1,000.
5. 2000-P New Hampshire Quarter Struck on a Nail
This rare and unusual error involves a New Hampshire state quarter struck on a nail. The coin, accidentally minted on a six-penny nail, is one of the oddest U.S. Mint errors. While only a few examples exist, one sold at auction for over $40,000.
6. 2000 Wide AM Lincoln Cent
The Wide AM Lincoln Cent from 2000 is another rare error. The letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse side are spaced further apart than they should be. This error typically sells for between $200 and $500, with some high-grade specimens fetching even more.
7. 2001-P Jefferson Nickel Struck with Two Obverse Dies
In 2001, a Jefferson Nickel error occurred where two obverse dies (head sides) were used in the minting process. This created a coin with no reverse side, making it highly valuable among collectors. The few known examples can sell for thousands of dollars depending on the condition.
Table of Valuable Error Coins
| Coin | Error Type | Estimated Value | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar and Washington Quarter | Mule Error | $100,000 – $125,000 | 2000 |
| 2005-D Speared Bison Jefferson Nickel | Die Gouge (Speared Bison) | $1,200 – $4,000 | 2005 |
| 2007 “Godless” Presidential Dollar | Missing Edge Inscription | $30 – $2,000 | 2007 |
| 2009-D District of Columbia Quarter | Doubled Die | $100 – $1,000 | 2009 |
| 2000-P New Hampshire Quarter on Nail | Struck on Nail | $40,000+ | 2000 |
| 2000 Wide AM Lincoln Cent | Wide AM Error | $200 – $500 | 2000 |
| 2001-P Jefferson Nickel | Struck with Two Obverse Dies | $1,000+ | 2001 |
Conclusion
Error coins from the 2000s are not only unique but can be incredibly valuable. Collectors seek out these coins for their rarity and unusual features, and some error coins can fetch tens of thousands of dollars at auction. If you happen to come across one of these error coins in your collection, it could be worth a significant sum.
FAQs
What is a mule error coin?
A mule error coin occurs when the obverse (head) side of one coin is mistakenly paired with the reverse (tail) side of another, creating a mismatched coin. One of the most famous mule errors is the 2000-P Sacagawea Dollar and Washington Quarter mule, which is highly valuable due to its rarity.
Why is the “Godless” Presidential Dollar valuable?
The “Godless” Presidential Dollar is valuable because it lacks the inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST,” a fundamental error that has made these coins highly collectible. Their values vary based on condition and rarity.
How much is the 2005-D Speared Bison Nickel worth?
The 2005-D Speared Bison Nickel can be worth between $1,200 and $4,000, depending on its condition. The die gouge that created the appearance of a spear on the bison’s back makes this coin unique and highly sought after.
What makes the 2009-D District of Columbia Quarter an error coin?
The 2009-D District of Columbia Quarter features a doubled die error on the reverse side, where the inscriptions appear doubled. This error can increase the coin’s value, especially for high-grade specimens.
Are error coins from the 2000s common?
While error coins from the 2000s are not as common as regular coins, certain minting errors, such as mule errors or die gouges, can occasionally occur, making these coins rare and valuable to collectors.
References
- PCGS. “Mule Mint Errors: The Rarest of the Rare.” PCGS, 2024.
- CoinWeek. “Ten Extreme U.S. Error Coins.” CoinWeek, 2023.
- Rarest.org. “8 Rarest U.S. Mint Error Coins Ever Produced.” Rarest.org, 2023.
- SDBullion. “Top 20 Error Coins Worth Money.” SD Bullion, 2024.
