Could there be a fortune hiding in your change jar? While most pennies are only worth a single cent, some rare Lincoln pennies are valued at thousands, even tens of thousands, of dollars due to unique characteristics, minting errors, or historical significance. Here’s a list of the most valuable Lincoln pennies you should look out for.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent was among the first pennies to feature Abraham Lincoln. The “VDB” initials on the reverse side refer to designer Victor David Brenner. Only a limited number were minted, making it a rare and highly sought-after coin.
1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent is an error coin from the World War II era. While most pennies from this year were made from steel, a few bronze planchets were mistakenly used, creating this valuable collector’s item.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is famous for its noticeable doubling on the obverse side. This error makes it one of the most iconic and valuable pennies for collectors.
1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
Similar to the 1955 penny, the 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent shows doubling on the front inscriptions. This unique feature has made it a highly valuable coin among collectors.
1922 No D Lincoln Cent
The 1922 No D Lincoln Cent is distinctive because it lacks a mintmark. This error makes the penny unique, adding to its collectible value.
1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent is notable for its doubling on the obverse. Although not as rare as other doubled die coins, it’s still highly sought after and valuable.
1914-D Lincoln Cent
The 1914-D Lincoln Cent, minted in Denver, is rare due to its limited mintage. Its scarcity and historical significance make it a prized piece for coin enthusiasts.
1931-S Lincoln Cent
The 1931-S Lincoln Cent had a very low mintage, adding to its value among collectors. It’s particularly valuable in excellent condition.
1944 Steel Lincoln Cent
The 1944 Steel Lincoln Cent is an error coin. Most 1944 pennies were made from bronze, but a few were accidentally minted using steel planchets from the previous year.
1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent
The 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent is another rare variant. This penny features the “AM” in “AMERICA” on the reverse side placed closely together, distinguishing it from typical pennies.
| Coin Name | Year of Mint | Estimated Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent | 1909 | $100,000+ | Initials on coin |
| 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent | 1943 | $300,000+ | Bronze error |
| 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | 1955 | $50,000+ | Doubled obverse |
| 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | 1969 | $40,000+ | Doubled inscription |
| 1922 No D Lincoln Cent | 1922 | $30,000+ | Missing mintmark |
| 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent | 1972 | $1,000+ | Doubling on obverse |
| 1914-D Lincoln Cent | 1914 | $75,000+ | Minted in Denver |
These rare Lincoln pennies can be worth much more than their face value. Checking your change jar could potentially yield one of these hidden treasures, so take a closer look—you never know what you might find.
FAQs
What makes Lincoln pennies valuable?
Lincoln pennies become valuable due to unique minting errors, low mintage, historical significance, or specific design features, which increase their demand among collectors.
Are these rare Lincoln pennies still in circulation?
Yes, while they are rare, some of these valuable Lincoln pennies may still be in circulation and could occasionally appear in your loose change.
How can I identify a valuable penny?
Look for specific years, mintmarks, or errors like doubling on the obverse. If you suspect you have a valuable coin, consider getting it appraised by a professional.
Where can I sell a rare Lincoln penny?
Rare pennies can be sold at specialized auctions, to coin collectors, or through reputable online marketplaces for collectibles.
Should I clean a rare penny before selling it?
No, cleaning a rare penny can reduce its value. It’s best to keep it in its original condition and handle it carefully.