Pennies may seem like pocket change, but some rare U.S. cents from the twentieth century are worth hundreds, thousands, or even millions of dollars today. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about your coin jar, here are 13 rare pennies you should know about.
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The first Lincoln cent ever minted, this penny was produced in San Francisco and features the designer’s initials “V.D.B.” on the reverse. Only 484,000 were made, making it one of the most coveted coins in U.S. history.
2. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
Struck in Denver, the 1914-D penny is rare due to its limited mintage and widespread use. High-grade versions can fetch several thousand dollars.
3. 1922 No D Lincoln Cent
This coin is famous for lacking the Denver mintmark due to a heavily worn die. It’s an error coin highly prized by collectors.
4. 1931-S Lincoln Cent
Minted during the Great Depression, only 866,000 were made. It’s valuable due to its low production and economic context.
5. 1943 Copper Penny
Most 1943 pennies were made of steel to conserve copper for WWII. However, a few copper planchets slipped in. These copper 1943 cents can be worth over $100,000.
6. 1944 Steel Penny
The opposite error of 1943, a few 1944 pennies were mistakenly struck in steel. These are just as valuable as the 1943 copper cents.
7. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
This dramatic doubling on the obverse (especially noticeable in “LIBERTY” and the date) makes this one of the most famous error coins.
8. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
Another doubling error, this San Francisco-minted penny is extremely rare and often faked. Verified examples are worth tens of thousands.
9. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent
Hard to distinguish from the large date version, this small-date variety with a high “7” is sought after by sharp-eyed collectors.
10. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse
The reverse of this penny shows strong doubling, especially in the inscriptions. It’s one of the most valuable modern errors.
11. 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent
On this variety, the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are nearly touching. This minting error has made this penny worth thousands.
12. 1995 Doubled Die Obverse
This modern doubled die error is relatively affordable but still collectible.
13. 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Cent
A reverse design mix-up created extra space between “A” and “M.” Rare and valuable, especially in uncirculated condition.
FAQ
Q: Are these rare pennies still in circulation?
A few may still turn up in pocket change, but most are in private collections or auctions.
Q: Where can I sell rare pennies?
Auction houses, online coin dealers, and numismatic shows are popular options.
Q: How do I know if my penny is valuable?
Check for date, mint mark, and possible errors. Having it graded by a professional service can confirm its authenticity and value.