5 Coin Jars People Leave Behind That Are Worth Checking

Ever walked past a random coin jar and thought, “Who would leave this behind?” You’d be surprised at what people toss aside! While most of us might think these jars are just filled with loose change, some of them could actually hold a small fortune. So, grab your magnifying glass and let’s explore five types of coin jars that are totally worth your attention.

1. The Classic Penny Jar

clear glass bottle with silver round coins — Photo by Fujiphilm

Ah, the classic penny jar. It’s probably the most common sight in homes and offices. You know the one: it’s overflowing with copper coins, and you might be tempted to think it’s just a nuisance. But hold on! Some of those pennies could be worth more than their weight in chocolate. Rare minting errors, like the 1992 close AM penny, can fetch a pretty penny (pun absolutely intended). So, before you toss that jar in the recycling bin, have a look—you might just strike gold!

2. The Silver Coin Surprise

If you see a jar filled with shiny coins, do yourself a favor and check for silver. This is where things get exciting! Many people don’t realize that coins minted before 1965 are made of 90% silver. That means those seemingly ordinary quarters, dimes, and half-dollars could be worth a lot more than face value. Imagine finding a 1944 Mercury dime or a 1964 Kennedy half-dollar in your stash. It’s like finding hidden treasure in your own home. Just make sure you’ve got your coin guide handy, or at least a good app on your phone!

3. The Foreign Coin Collection

Traveling can leave you with a pocketful of coins from far-off places—coins that usually end up in a jar when you get home. Don’t dismiss them as junk! Many foreign coins are collectible, especially if they’re from countries that are no longer in circulation or if they feature unique designs. For example, old British pennies or euros from discontinued currencies might not be worth a lot individually, but together, they could surprise you. Plus, it’s a great excuse to reminisce about your travels while going through them. Who knows? You might discover a rare find that makes you want to book another trip!

4. The Vintage Coin Jar

Now we’re getting into the fun stuff! Vintage coins are a collector’s dream. If you stumble upon a jar filled with coins from the 1800s or early 1900s, your heart might just skip a beat. Coins like the Indian Head penny or the Buffalo nickel can be worth quite a bit, depending on their condition. Even if they’re worn and a bit rough around the edges, they can still have historical value. It’s like holding a piece of history in your hand! So, next time you see an old jar stuffed with coins, don’t just glance over it—take a closer look and see what stories it has to tell.

5. The Unassuming Coin Jar: Tokens and Medals

Last but not least, let’s talk about those jars that aren’t filled with traditional money at all. Sometimes, you’ll find old tokens, medals, or even arcade coins in the mix. Sure, they might not buy you a cup of coffee, but they can be quirky little collectibles. Vintage arcade tokens can be a fun nod to nostalgia, and some tokens from long-gone establishments can be surprisingly valuable. Plus, medals from events or organizations can be worth something to the right collector. So, don’t overlook those little oddities—they could be worth more than you think!

Time to Tackle Your Coin Jars!

So, next time you’re cleaning out the attic or rummaging through the garage, don’t be so quick to toss those coin jars aside. You might just find a hidden gem waiting for you. Take a little time to sort through them, do some research, and who knows? You could turn a pile of forgotten change into a nice little stash. And if nothing else, you’ll have a fun story to tell your friends over coffee about the wild world of coin collecting. Happy hunting!

Willow and Hearth