As America’s Semiquincentennial approaches in 2026, collectors are already looking ahead to which coins will capture attention—not just for their historical significance, scarcity, and appeal. The following standout coins and series, all minted in 2025 or earlier, are projected to be in high demand as the anniversary year unfolds.
1. 2025 Omega Pennies & Final Lincoln Cents
- Why They’ll Be Popular: 2025 marks the final year of the Lincoln Cent, ending 232 years of continuous production. The standout farewell issues are the Omega Pennies, featuring a special Ω privy mark and an ultra‑limited three‑coin set that includes a 24‑karat gold Lincoln Cent. Every Omega Penny set was offered in a high-profile auction on December 11, 2025, and all 232 sets have been claimed and are privately owned.
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Beyond Omega Pennies: Collectors who want to secure the last year of the Lincoln Cent without chasing ultra‑limited sets can still find standard 2025 pennies in official U.S. Mint products:
- Uncirculated Coin Sets – Featuring the final copper-plated zinc cents struck for circulation.
- Proof Sets – Includes mirror-like proof Lincoln Cents with sharp details.
- Silver Proof Sets – Offers the same proof penny alongside silver versions of other denominations.
- Collector Tip: Omega Pennies will command strong demand due to their rarity and symbolic significance. Meanwhile, Mint sets provide an affordable way to preserve history and complete date runs. Both options represent the closing chapter of America’s longest-running coin series.
2. 2025 U.S. Women Quarters
- Why They’ll Be Popular: This marks the final year of the American Women Quarters program, which began in 2022. Collectors will be eager to complete their sets, making these last five designs highly sought after.
- Collector Tip: Consider building full sets now—scarcity will increase once the program ends.
3. National Park Quarters (2010–2021)
- Why They’ll Be Popular: This massive series of 56 designs ended in 2021, and collectors are still chasing full sets. Some issues, like the 2019 Lowell “W” quarter, had very low mintages, adding to their appeal.
- Collector Tip: Target key low‑mintage coins and consider grading high‑quality examples.
4. Sacagawea Dollars (2000–2008)
- Why They’ll Be Popular: Early Sacagawea dollars are increasingly scarce in circulation. Notably, the U.S. Mint did not strike these coins for circulation between 2002 and 2008, making those years harder to find. Their distinctive golden color and historical design—honoring Sacagawea and Native American heritage—continue to attract both new and seasoned collectors.
- Collector Tip: Look for high‑grade examples or original rolls for long‑term appeal.
5. Presidential $1 Coins (2007–2020)
- Why They’ll Be Popular: Complete sets from this series are quickly becoming collector favorites. Production was paused between 2012 and 2019, making certain years harder to find and increasing overall demand. Featuring every deceased U.S. president in chronological order, the series offers a tangible way to connect with American history. Looking ahead, Jimmy Carter is expected to join the series in late 2026 or early 2027, adding another layer of anticipation for collectors.
- Collector Tip: Focus on condition—uncirculated coins and full sets will command attention.
6. Native American $1 Coins (2009–Present)
- Why They’ll Be Popular: These coins highlight Native American contributions to U.S. history. Many issues were sold only in rolls or bags, making them scarce in circulation. Notably, the post 2012 releases had extremely limited distribution and was never widely released for circulation.
- Collector Tip: Build a complete set before the program ends—these coins carry strong cultural significance.
7. 2025 U.S. Marine Corps 250th Anniversary Commemoratives
- Formats: $5 Gold, Silver Dollar, and Half Dollar (Proof & Uncirculated)
- Why They’ll Be Popular: Military‑themed coins have a strong tradition of collector interest. These honor the Marine Corps’ 250 years of service—a milestone that resonates deeply with history buffs and patriots.
- Collector Tip: Limited mintages and patriotic themes make these essential additions. Secure yours early before they sell out.
Why These Coins Matter
Popularity isn’t just about monetary value—it’s about scarcity, cultural relevance, and collector trends. Programs ending soon, coins with historical themes, and series that require completion will always attract attention. With the Semiquincentennial on the horizon, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year in numismatics. Whether you’re chasing modern rarities like the Omega Pennies or completing long‑running series such as the Women Quarters, these coins should be on your radar.
Check out our Change is Coming – America 250 blog post to learn about the 2026 new releases.