A “mule coin” is a fascinating error coin where the obverse (front) and reverse (back) designs are not meant to be paired together . The value of a mule coin can vary significantly depending on factors like its rarity, the condition of the coin, and the “spectacularness” of the error (how noticeable and unusual the mismatched designs are).
- 2000 Sacagawea Dollar / State Quarter Mule: This is considered the most famous and valuable US mule coin. It features the obverse of a Washington state quarter and the reverse of a Sacagawea dollar, struck on a Sacagawea dollar planchet. It’s estimated that around 20 examples of this particular mule are known to exist. These mules have sold for impressive prices, ranging from $100,000 to $125,000, [according to PCGS] . One example even sold for $192,000 in 2018.
- 2001-D Lincoln Cent / Roosevelt Dime Mule: This error coin has a Lincoln cent obverse and a Roosevelt dime reverse, struck on a Lincoln cent planchet. There are only about three dozen known examples of this mule coin. Examples of this mule have fetched substantial prices, with one selling for $114,000 in June 2021.
- 1859 Indian Head Cent struck with two obverse dies: Only one example of this mule is known to exist, and it sold for $195,000 in 2008.
- Washington Quarter struck with two 25-cent eagle reverse dies: Only a few of these are known to exist, and one in MS-66 condition sold for over $40,000 in 2006.
- 1995 Lincoln Cent / Roosevelt Dime Mule: A 1995 Lincoln cent obverse struck on a Roosevelt “silver” dime planchet with the dime reverse, only one is known.
- 2000-P Jefferson Nickel struck with two obverse Jefferson Nickel dies: Only one of these is known to exist.
- 2014 Britannia-Lunar Horse Mule Coins: In 2014, the British Royal Mint accidentally produced thousands of these mule coins, featuring mismatched obverse designs from the Silver Britannia and Lunar Horse series. Because of the high mintage, they are not particularly valuable on the secondary market.
- 2000 Australian Dollar / 50-Cent Mule: This mule coin features the Queen Elizabeth II obverse from a dollar coin and the Mob of Roos reverse from a 50-cent coin. Prices for this coin can range from a few hundred to over $7,000 depending on its condition.
In general, US mule coins are considered the rarest type of mint error, with probably less than 35 examples known across all dates, types, and denominations combined. Counterfeits exist, often created by altering genuine coins to resemble mules, [according to PCGS] . Therefore, it’s crucial to have any suspected mule coins evaluated and authenticated by knowledgeable experts or grading services like PCGS or NGC before assuming their value.
Are mule coins valuable?
In numismatics, a mule is a coin or medal minted with obverse and reverse designs not normally seen on the same piece. These can be intentional or produced by error. This type of error is highly sought after by collectors, and examples can fetch high prices.
How much is the $1 mule coin worth?
Nemtsas said the four-figure sum for the 2000 $1 mule is usually reserved for those in immaculate condition. Circulated versions of this coin can fetch $200-$300.
How do I identify a $1 mule coin?
Also known as the obverse. Of a 10-cent coin as As a result you have a distinct double rim on the coin. And it is a very very popular item.
How do you tell if you have a mule coin?
It’s a constructed replica. Someone has machined a quarter and dollar and put them together. A real mule just has the quarter die on the front, not a quarter inlaid into the dollar. The fact that it is silver instead of “golden” is the giveaway.