Lincoln pennies have been a part of U.S. coinage since 1909, and over the years, some of these pennies have become incredibly valuable. While most pennies are only worth their face value, a select few have sold for staggering amounts due to their rarity, condition, or unique characteristics. Could one of these rare pennies be hiding in your collection?
1. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny
The 1943 bronze Lincoln penny is one of the rarest coins in existence. Due to a minting error during World War II, a few pennies were accidentally struck in bronze instead of zinc-coated steel. These coins can fetch upwards of $200,000 at auction.
2. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
This is one of the most sought-after pennies by collectors. Only 484,000 of these were minted, making them extremely rare. The 1909-S VDB penny can be worth as much as $100,000 in top condition.
3. 1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D penny is another rare find. It is valuable due to the low mintage numbers, with just over 1.1 million pennies produced. A high-grade example can sell for up to $150,000.
4. 1922 No D Lincoln Penny
This penny is unique because it was mistakenly struck without a mintmark, despite being minted in Denver. High-quality versions of this penny have been known to sell for nearly $75,000.
5. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
One of the most famous error coins, the 1955 doubled die penny, features a noticeable doubling of the obverse inscription. Depending on its condition, it can be worth between $50,000 and $100,000.
6. 1917 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny
The 1917 doubled die obverse penny is another error coin that collectors are eager to find. A well-preserved example of this coin can sell for upwards of $40,000.
7. 1944 Steel Lincoln Penny
Like the 1943 bronze penny, this coin is a result of a minting error. In 1944, the U.S. Mint accidentally struck a few pennies in steel instead of the standard bronze. These pennies can be worth over $100,000 in good condition.
8. 1931-S Lincoln Penny
The 1931-S penny is valuable due to its low mintage numbers, with only 866,000 minted. High-grade examples of this coin can be worth up to $50,000.
9. 1926-S Lincoln Penny
The 1926-S penny is another rare find that is sought after by collectors. It has a low mintage, and examples in excellent condition can sell for nearly $30,000.
10. 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
This error penny is distinguished by a significant doubling of the obverse inscription. In excellent condition, this penny can fetch prices as high as $50,000.
| Year | Mint Mark | Type of Error/Unique Feature | Estimated Value | Condition Importance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 | Bronze | Minting error | $200,000+ | Very high |
| 1909 | S VDB | Low mintage | $100,000+ | High-grade only |
| 1914 | D | Low mintage | $150,000+ | High-grade only |
| 1922 | No D | Mintmark error | $75,000+ | High-grade only |
| 1955 | Doubled Die | Minting error | $100,000+ | High-grade only |
| 1917 | Doubled Die | Minting error | $40,000+ | High-grade only |
| 1944 | Steel | Minting error | $100,000+ | High-grade only |
| 1931 | S | Low mintage | $50,000+ | High-grade only |
| 1926 | S | Low mintage | $30,000+ | High-grade only |
| 1969 | S Doubled Die | Minting error | $50,000+ | High-grade only |
FAQs
Lincoln pennies become valuable due to factors such as rarity, minting errors, low mintage numbers, and excellent condition. Pennies with unique characteristics, such as doubled dies or rare metal compositions, tend to fetch the highest prices.
To determine if you have a rare Lincoln penny, examine the year, mintmark, and any noticeable errors, such as doubled inscriptions or missing mintmarks. You can also consult a coin grading service for a professional evaluation.
You can sell rare Lincoln pennies through online auction sites like eBay, or by reaching out to coin dealers and numismatic auctions that specialize in rare coins.
Not all error coins are valuable. However, significant errors like doubled dies or incorrect metal compositions often result in higher values, especially when the coin is in good condition.
The best way to preserve valuable pennies is to store them in a climate-controlled environment using protective holders or albums that prevent tarnishing and damage. Avoid handling the coins with bare hands to maintain their condition.
