Attention Rare Coin Collectors: Seek Out the $150K Penny That Could Be Hiding in Your Collection!

Rare coins can be surprisingly valuable, especially certain pennies that collectors and treasure hunters look out for. Did you know that a common-looking penny could be worth as much as $150,000? In this guide, we’ll explore what makes some pennies rare and how you might have one hiding in your collection. We’ll also go over specific features to check for, like mint marks and errors, that make these coins highly prized by collectors.

Top Rare Pennies That Could Be Worth a Fortune

1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent

This penny, minted in 1909, has become incredibly rare due to its limited number. The coin has designer Victor David Brenner’s initials, “VDB,” on the back, which makes it unique. With only about 484,000 of these made, it’s valuable, especially in mint condition. The worth of this penny can range from $700 to over $2,000, depending on its condition.

1914-D Lincoln Cent

The 1914-D penny is another rare coin highly sought after by collectors. With a limited release from the Denver Mint, only about 1.2 million of these pennies were made. In perfect condition, this penny can be valued at up to $5,000.

1922 No D Lincoln Cent (Weak Reverse)

Known as the “No D” penny, this coin was mistakenly minted without the Denver “D” mark. This unique feature came from die wear during production, making this coin valuable. A well-preserved 1922 No D Lincoln cent can be worth up to $25,000.

1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent

During World War II, pennies were made of steel, not bronze. However, a few bronze pennies were accidentally produced. Only a handful of these 1943 bronze pennies exist, making them one of the most valuable U.S. coins. A high-grade 1943 bronze penny can sell for as much as $1 million!

Top Rare Lincoln Pennies

Coin	Year	Mint Mark	Unique Feature	Estimated Value
1909-S VDB	1909	S	VDB initials, low mintage	$700 – $2,500
1914-D	1914	D	Limited mintage	$200 – $5,000
1922 No D	1922	None	Missing “D” mint mark	$500 – $25,000
1943 Bronze	1943	Varies	Bronze planchet error	Up to $1 million
1955 Doubled Die	1955	None	Doubled obverse	$1,000 – $25,000
1969-S Doubled Die	1969	S	Doubled obverse	$10,000 – $70,000
1972 Doubled Die	1972	None	Doubled obverse	$300 – $2,500
1983 Doubled Die	1983	None	Doubled reverse	$200 – $1,500
1992 Close AM	1992	None	Close “AM” in “AMERICA”	Up to $20,000
1995 Doubled Die	1995	None	Doubled obverse	$15 – $50

1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent

The 1955 Doubled Die penny has a unique error: it appears as though the lettering was doubled. This error increases its value, and collectors will pay anywhere from $1,000 to $25,000 for a 1955 Doubled Die penny in excellent condition.

1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent

Another rare doubled die error, this 1969 penny features noticeable doubling on the front. Only a few exist, so collectors will pay between $10,000 and $70,000 for this coin in pristine condition.

1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent

The 1972 Doubled Die penny is not as rare as some of the others on this list, but it’s still highly collectible. The error is visible in the wording on the coin, with high-grade versions worth around $2,500.

1983 Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Cent

This error coin has a doubled image on the reverse side, with “ONE CENT” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” appearing slightly doubled. A well-kept version of this coin could be worth up to $1,500.

1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent

The 1992 Close AM penny is another subtle but valuable error coin. This penny has the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” spaced closely, unlike most coins. This minor error can raise the value of the penny to as high as $20,000 in perfect condition.

1995 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent

The last major doubled die penny, this coin has a doubling error on “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY.” Although more common than other doubled dies, it can still be valued at $50 or more.

Conclusion

Collecting pennies might seem simple, but some coins hold incredible value due to unique features and errors. From minting mistakes like the 1955 Doubled Die to the 1943 Bronze penny, these coins attract collectors willing to pay thousands of dollars. If you have a coin collection, carefully check for these rare features—you could be sitting on a small fortune! Coin collecting is not only fun but also potentially rewarding for those who know what to look for.

NH HOME

FAQ’s