5 Hidden Treasures: Rare Pennies Worth $18 Million Still In The Market!
Rare pennies hold a special place in the hearts of collectors and investors, not just for their historical significance but also for their astonishing monetary value.
Some pennies, once part of everyday change, are now worth millions of dollars due to their rarity, minting errors, and unique features.
Let’s dive into five rare pennies, valued collectively at over $18 million, that are still in circulation and continue to captivate the world of numismatics.
1. The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny is a remarkable error coin that arose during World War II. While most pennies minted that year were made from zinc-coated steel to conserve copper for the war, a few were accidentally struck on leftover bronze planchets.
- Key Features:
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Mint Marks: Philadelphia (no mint mark), San Francisco (S), Denver (D)
- Estimated Number in Existence: Fewer than 20
- Value:
- Circulated condition: $100,000 to $500,000
- High-grade specimens: $1.5 to $1.7 million
- How to Identify:
- Date: 1943
- Non-magnetic (unlike steel pennies of the same year)
- Weight: 3.11 grams
2. The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny is an iconic error coin resulting from a misaligned die, causing a distinct doubling of the inscriptions on the obverse.
- Key Features:
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia Mint)
- Doubling: Clearly visible on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- Total Mintage: Approximately 20,000–24,000
- Value:
- Circulated condition: $1,000 to $2,000
- Uncirculated condition: $5,000 to $25,000
- Perfect specimens: Over $100,000
- How to Identify:
- Look for pronounced doubling in the text.
- Use a magnifying glass to confirm the error.
3. The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny is a key-date coin from the first year of the Lincoln cent series. The initials VDB of designer Victor David Brenner appear on the reverse, which sparked controversy and led to their removal from subsequent coins.
- Key Features:
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Designer Initials: “VDB” on the reverse bottom edge
- Total Mintage: 484,000
- Value:
- Good condition: $800 to $1,200
- Uncirculated condition: $3,000 to $10,000
- Pristine specimens: Up to $60,000
- How to Identify:
- Check for the S mint mark and the VDB initials.
4. The 1922 No D Lincoln Penny
This coin, minted exclusively at the Denver Mint, is an error resulting from a worn die, leading to the absence of the “D” mint mark.
- Key Features:
- Mint: Denver (No “D” mint mark)
- Strong Reverse: A sharply struck reverse indicates higher value.
- Estimated Number in Existence: 10,000 to 15,000
- Value:
- Good condition: $500 to $1,000
- Uncirculated condition: $10,000 to $30,000
- Perfect examples: $50,000+
- How to Identify:
- Confirm the absence of the D mint mark.
- Look for a strong reverse strike.
5. The 1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D Lincoln Penny is a key date in the series, renowned for its low mintage and high demand among collectors.
- Key Features:
- Mint Mark: Denver (D)
- Total Mintage: 1,193,000
- Value:
- Good condition: $200 to $400
- Fine to Extremely Fine: $500 to $2,000
- Uncirculated: $3,000 to $10,000
- High-grade specimens: Up to $50,000
- How to Identify:
- Check for the D mint mark below the date.
| Coin | Key Features | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny | Copper planchet during steel penny era | $100,000 – $1.7 million |
| 1955 Double Die Penny | Doubling on “LIBERTY” and date | $1,000 – $100,000+ |
| 1909-S VDB Penny | First-year coin with “VDB” initials | $800 – $60,000 |
| 1922 No D Penny | Missing Denver mint mark | $500 – $50,000 |
| 1914-D Penny | Low mintage key date | $200 – $50,000 |
The five rare pennies listed above offer an incredible glimpse into the history and artistry of U.S. coinage.
With a combined value exceeding $18 million, these coins remain some of the most desirable pieces in numismatics.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual hobbyist, keeping an eye out for these treasures could lead to a life-changing discovery. So, start checking your loose change—you might just strike gold (or copper)!
FAQs
How can I identify if my penny is rare?
Look for unique features like errors, mint marks, and dates. Use tools like magnifying glasses and weight scales to inspect details.
Are rare pennies still in circulation?
While extremely rare, some pennies may still be found in circulation or collections. Regularly check your change and inherited coin stashes.
What is the best way to verify the value of a rare penny?
Consult professional grading services like PCGS or NGC for authentication and an accurate assessment of value.
