Many collectors invest in gold for stability, but some rare U.S. coins have delivered far better returns—often rising thousands of dollars in just a few years. These coins combine history, scarcity, and collector demand, making them powerful long-term investments. In this guide, we highlight four rare American coins that have consistently outperformed gold, including the legendary 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar, which can reach prices up to $175,000 in 2025.
1. 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar – A Top Performer in 2025
The 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar is one of the most iconic early-20th-century silver coins. Its classic design and low survival rate make it a premium collectible. Today, high-grade examples command eye-popping prices.
Key Varieties & Current Market Values (2025)
| Coin Type | Mintmark | Special Feature | Value Range (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1917-D | Denver | Obverse mintmark, Full Head | $25,000–$175,000+ |
| 1917-S | San Francisco | MS65+ with strong strike | $20,000–$150,000+ |
| 1917 (No Mintmark) | Philadelphia | Prooflike luster | $10,000–$120,000+ |
| 1917-D | Denver | Low-pop registry coin | $30,000–$160,000+ |
| 1917-S | San Francisco | MS66–MS67 with eye appeal | $35,000–$175,000+ |
Why It Beats Gold
- Extremely limited high-grade survivors
- Strong auction history
- Full Head and Mint State coins see rapid appreciation
- Widely collected across the world
2. 1976 Bicentennial Quarter – Rare Varieties Worth Thousands
Most Bicentennial quarters are common, but certain rare versions can outperform gold in value growth. The most valuable types include error coins, silver proofs, and high-grade certified examples.
Top Valuable Varieties
- Double-die obverse
- 40% silver proof quarters
- Deep Cameo (DCAM) proofs
- MS67–MS68 certified coins
These rarities can sell for $3,000 to over $15,000, depending on grade and variety.
3. Roosevelt Dimes (Rare 1960s–1980s Varieties)
Some Roosevelt dimes from the 1960s to the 1980s have become unexpectedly valuable due to minting errors and limited populations. Their small size and high demand among modern collectors help boost their prices.
Most Valuable Roosevelt Dimes
- Full Bands (FB) MS67+
- No-Mintmark 1982 and 1968 varieties
- Proof error dimes
- Registry-quality MS68–MS69 coins
Top examples can bring $5,000 to $20,000+, easily outperforming gold price growth.
4. Washington Quarters – Rare 1930s–1970s Issues
Washington quarters have become one of the strongest investment categories thanks to grading scarcity and rising collector interest.
Key Varieties Showing Strong Appreciation
- 1932-D and 1932-S
- 1940s–1950s MS67+ Full Head strikes
- Silver proof Cameo quarters
- Early errors and double-dies
High-grade certified coins can exceed $25,000 to $100,000, depending on rarity.
Why These Coins Outperform Gold
Gold rises steadily, but rare coins appreciate based on:
- Scarcity (low mintages or low surviving populations)
- Collector demand
- Auction performance
- Historical significance
When all these factors combine, prices can rise far faster than precious metals.
FAQs
1. Why do rare U.S. coins rise in value faster than gold?
Because their supply is fixed and extremely limited, while demand continues to grow.
2. Are Mint State (MS) coins more valuable?
Yes. MS65–MS68 coins often sell for many times more than circulated pieces.
3. Is it worth grading old coins?
Absolutely. Grading can significantly increase value, especially for rare varieties.
4. Which coin is the best investment in 2025?
The 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar remains the strongest due to high demand and very limited high-grade survivors.
5. Can modern coins still be valuable?
Yes—error coins, silver proofs, and high-grade circulation finds can be worth hundreds or even thousands.
Conclusion
Rare U.S. coins continue to outperform gold because they offer something gold cannot: history, scarcity, and collector passion. Whether it’s the iconic 1917 Walking Liberty Half Dollar, valuable Bicentennial quarters, or high-grade Roosevelt and Washington coins, these pieces provide strong long-term growth potential. If you’re searching for smart investments or hidden treasures, these four coin categories are among the best opportunities in today’s numismatic market.