Hi found these at a garage sale they look like they are in great shape are they worth much above face ? Paid 25 cents each
I've found multiple rolls of 39Ps while roll searching and have found at least a full roll of 38s. I wouldn't pay above face value for them but I don't think you got hosed for 50 cents.
Also super common. Definitely wouldn't have paid more than face for that one. But again, at least you didn't get completely fleeced. As long as you like them, that's the important thing.
While the 38 and 39 are first and second year of issue, in circulated condition they are worth basically a nickel. The real finds are the D and S of those two dates. Those four are some of the hardest Jeffs to find in pocket change.
It's a good thing that you are interested in coins, even though the two you bought aren't worth too much over face value. So buy a used copy of the red book and feed your curiousity.
The 38 is worth that. (or more it looks like it's in good shape.) The 1939 is very common and not worth more than a dime unless it is in spectacular shape. However, there is a 1939 variety with the 1938 reverse. (Search other threads here for those markers) and then if could be worth around a dollar. More in better condition. I went through my 1939's and found 2 of those good ones. You never know.
