10 Rare Lincoln Pennies Worth a Fortune For more than a century, the Lincoln penny has been one of the most collected coins in the United States. First introduced in 1909 to honor President Abraham Lincoln, this small copper coin has produced some of the most valuable and sought-after rarities in American numismatics. While most pennies are worth just one cent, a few rare versions have sold for thousands — even hundreds of thousands — of dollars.
If you enjoy coin collecting or checking pocket change, here are ten rare Lincoln pennies that could be worth serious money.
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
The Lincoln cent debuted in 1909, and the rarest regular issue from that year is the 1909-S VDB. The “S” mint mark indicates San Francisco, and “VDB” are the initials of designer Victor David Brenner.
Only about 484,000 were minted, making it one of the key dates in the entire Lincoln cent series. High-grade examples can sell for thousands of dollars.
2. 1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D penny from the Denver Mint is another major key date. Because of its low mintage and heavy circulation, finding one in good condition is difficult. Even worn examples can command strong prices, while mint-state coins can reach five figures.
3. 1922 No D Lincoln Penny
In 1922, pennies were struck only at the Denver Mint. However, due to worn dies, some coins were produced without a visible “D” mint mark. These “No D” varieties are highly collectible and valuable.
4. 1931-S Lincoln Penny
The 1931-S penny had a relatively low mintage during the Great Depression. Many were saved by collectors at the time, but high-grade red examples still bring impressive premiums.
5. 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
One of the most famous error coins in U.S. history is the 1943 copper penny. During World War II, pennies were supposed to be made from steel to conserve copper. A small number were accidentally struck on leftover copper planchets. These rare coins have sold for over $100,000 depending on condition.
6. 1944 Steel Lincoln Penny
The opposite error occurred in 1944 when pennies returned to copper production. A few leftover steel blanks from 1943 were mistakenly used. These 1944 steel pennies are extremely rare and valuable.
7. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
The 1955 doubled die penny is famous for its dramatic doubling visible in the date and lettering. This variety is easily noticeable without magnification and is one of the most popular error coins among collectors.
8. 1969-S Doubled Die Penny
Another highly sought-after doubled die variety is the 1969-S. Clear doubling appears on the inscriptions. Because of its rarity and collector demand, authentic examples can sell for tens of thousands of dollars.
9. 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
The 1972 doubled die penny also shows noticeable doubling on the obverse lettering. While more common than the 1955 or 1969-S versions, high-grade examples still command strong prices.
10. 1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny
The 1992 Close AM variety features the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” positioned very close together. This subtle design difference makes the coin highly collectible and valuable, especially in mint condition.
Estimated Values of Rare Lincoln Pennies
| Coin | Key Feature | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | Low mintage | $700 – $5,000+ |
| 1914-D | Key date | $300 – $10,000+ |
| 1922 No D | Missing mint mark | $500 – $15,000+ |
| 1931-S | Low mintage | $100 – $3,000+ |
| 1943 Copper | Wrong metal error | $100,000 – $250,000+ |
| 1944 Steel | Wrong metal error | $75,000 – $150,000+ |
| 1955 Doubled Die | Strong doubling | $1,000 – $20,000+ |
| 1969-S Doubled Die | Rare doubling | $10,000 – $50,000+ |
| 1972 Doubled Die | Visible doubling | $200 – $5,000+ |
| 1992 Close AM | Design variety | $1,000 – $20,000+ |
Values depend on condition, authenticity, and market demand.
What Makes These Pennies So Valuable?
Rarity is the most important factor. Coins with low mintages or minting errors were produced in limited numbers. Demand from collectors further increases their value.
Condition also plays a major role. Coins graded in mint state or with bright original red color typically sell for much higher prices than circulated examples.
Authentication is critical for high-value coins. Because rare pennies are often counterfeited, professional grading services are recommended before buying or selling.
Final Thoughts
Rare Lincoln pennies prove that even the smallest coin can hold tremendous value. Whether due to minting errors, low production numbers, or unique design varieties, these coins remain highly desirable among collectors.
Before spending old pennies, take a closer look at dates and mint marks. That one-cent coin in your change jar could potentially be worth thousands — or even more.
1. How can I tell if my Lincoln penny is valuable?
Check the date, mint mark, and look for visible errors such as doubling or unusual metal color.
2. Are 1943 steel pennies valuable?
Most 1943 steel pennies are common, but 1943 copper pennies are extremely rare and valuable.
3. Should I clean a rare penny before selling it?
No. Cleaning a coin can significantly reduce its value.
4. Where can I sell rare Lincoln pennies?
You can sell them through coin dealers, auctions, or certified numismatic marketplaces.