Lost Change, Found Fortune: The Thrill of Collecting America’s Abandoned Coins

‘Really primal’ But for a tenacious group, every penny, nickel, dime and quarter is a golden—or copper or silvery—opportunity.

For some, it is easy money. Others do it for luck, as a game, or for the satisfaction of noticing life’s tiny triumphs. Many find it downright thrilling.

“There’s something really primal about seeing that glint on the ground,” says Chalkley Calderwood, of Catskill, N.Y. “I’m bending over to pick it up before I can even think.”

The predawn find When she’s out running, Hopkins stashes found loot in her leggings or shorts pockets. That can get hefty.

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“There have been plenty of times where I have come home having to hold up my shorts if it has been a really long run,” she says.

In Oregon, Shea used to share the hobby with fellow runner and friend, Molly.

Adding to the excitement are two rare Bicentennial quarters, which together are valued at nearly $2755 million USD.  

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