For most people, pennies are just small change. However, for coin collectors, they can be history, artistry, and value. Some pennies, through minting errors, limited production, or historical significance, bring in much more money than their face value. Let’s look into 10 highly sought-after pennies that could be hiding in your pocket change or old coin jars.
1943 Bronze Penny
The 1943 bronze penny is a legendary coin minted during World War II. That year, pennies were made from steel to conserve copper for the war effort, but a few bronze blanks were mistakenly used.
This penny’s rarity and historical significance have made it one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history, with some examples selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars. If you find one, you’ve known a numismatic jackpot.
1955 Double Die Penny
The 1955 double die penny is a collector’s favorite, known for its dramatic minting error. The doubling effect, especially visible on the date and lettering, is easily recognizable without magnification.
A good preserved example of this coin will bring hundreds to thousands of dollars. Thus, for a coin collector who enjoys collecting error coins, it is a must-have.
1909-S VDB Penny
The 1909-S VDB penny minted in San Francisco is very important as it is the first Lincoln cent. Its reverse features the initials of the designer, “VDB” for Victor David Brenner.
With a low mintage, these coins are priceless for collectors. Exceptional pieces carry prices in thousands of dollars; hence, these are among the most sought after pennies by American numismatics.
1943 Copper Penny
The other rarity from the World War is the 1943 copper penny. While that year most of the pennies were made up of steel, a few of the copper blinks were erroneously struck in.
These coins sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars due to how rare they are. If you get one, you have yourself a piece of minting history.
1992 Close AM Penny
This close AM penny variation in the “A” and “M” from “AMERICA” on the reverse makes 1992 somewhat of a modern anomaly.
Collectors highly value this error, with well-preserved examples selling for hundreds of dollars. Spotting this subtle difference could lead to an unexpected treasure.
1972 Double Die Penny
The 1972 double die penny showcases a minting error where the design on the obverse appears doubled, especially in the lettering and date.
This penny is highly sought after because of its visible error, and high-grade specimens will bring hundreds of dollars. Any collection of mint errors looks better with this coin included.
2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Penny
The 2004-D Wisconsin extra leaf penny is a great example of a reverse minting error. The reverse shows an extra leaf on the ear of corn.
This error, due to a die mistake, has made the coin a collector’s gem. Depending on its condition, it can sell for hundreds of dollars.
1983 Double Die Penny
The 1983 double die penny is another valuable error coin, with doubling visible on the obverse design.
This error is rare and highly sought after, with pristine examples fetching hundreds of dollars. It’s a modern reminder of how minting errors can create treasures.
1958 Double Die Penny
The 1958 double die penny is one of the rarest double die errors ever minted. Its dramatic doubling effect and extreme scarcity make it a numismatic treasure.
This penny can command prices in the thousands of dollars, making it a centerpiece for any serious coin collection.
1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D Lincoln penny is a classic rarity with its low mintage. As more so a historical issue, it carries an extremely high value based upon the demand of collectors.
In exceptional grade, this coin may sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars and is certainly a standout piece to include within any Lincoln cent collection.
Rare Pennies
| Penny | Year | Estimated Value | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Bronze Penny | 1943 | Hundreds of thousands | Mistakenly struck on bronze |
| 1955 Double Die Penny | 1955 | Hundreds to thousands | Prominent doubling in text and date |
| 1909-S VDB Penny | 1909 | Thousands of dollars | Designer’s initials, limited mintage |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | Hundreds of thousands | Rare copper strike during WWII |
| 1992 Close AM Penny | 1992 | Hundreds of dollars | Narrow spacing in “AMERICA” |
| 1972 Double Die Penny | 1972 | Hundreds of dollars | Doubling visible on obverse text |
| 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf | 2004 | Hundreds of dollars | Extra leaf error on reverse |
| 1983 Double Die Penny | 1983 | Hundreds of dollars | Doubling on obverse design |
| 1958 Double Die Penny | 1958 | Thousands of dollars | Extremely rare doubling |
| 1914-D Lincoln Penny | 1914 | Hundreds to thousands | Low mintage, high collector demand |
FAQs:
Why is the 1943 bronze penny valuable?
It was mistakenly struck on bronze blanks during WWII.
What makes the 1955 double die penny special?
Its prominent doubling effect on the date and lettering.