Top 13 Rare Lincoln Pennies Worth Big Money: The Lincoln cent, first minted in 1909, is one of the most enduring coins in American history. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it features Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and originally displayed two wheat stalks on the reverse. Over the decades, millions of Lincoln pennies have been produced, but certain rare dates and varieties stand out as exceptionally valuable. Collectors prize these coins not only for their monetary worth but also for the fascinating stories behind their creation. This guide highlights thirteen of the rarest Lincoln pennies that can be worth big money.
The 1909-S VDB Penny
The 1909-S VDB penny is one of the most famous coins in the Lincoln series. Brenner’s initials, VDB, were placed prominently on the reverse, sparking controversy. The Mint quickly removed the initials, making the San Francisco issue with VDB extremely rare. With a mintage of only 484,000, this coin is highly sought after and can be worth thousands of dollars in high grades.
The 1914-D Penny
The 1914-D penny is another legendary coin. With a mintage of just over one million, it is scarce compared to other issues. Collectors especially prize uncirculated examples, which can command values in the thousands. The 1914-D remains a cornerstone of any serious Lincoln cent collection.
The 1922 No D Penny
The 1922 No D penny is a fascinating variety created when the Denver Mint produced pennies without a visible mint mark. This error occurred due to worn dies, resulting in coins that appear to lack the “D.” Collectors prize this variety, and values can be substantial depending on condition. The 1922 No D penny is a perfect example of how minting errors can create valuable collectibles.
The 1931-S Penny
The 1931-S penny is notable for its low mintage of just under one million. While not as rare as the 1909-S VDB or 1914-D, it is still considered a key date. Collectors often pay premiums for high-grade examples, making it a desirable coin for completing a set.
The 1943 Copper Penny
One of the most famous error coins in American history is the 1943 copper penny. During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to steel planchets to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a small number of pennies were mistakenly struck in copper. These coins are extremely rare and valuable, with some selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The 1944 Steel Penny
In 1944, the Mint returned to using copper for pennies, but a few steel planchets from the previous year were accidentally used. The result was the 1944 steel penny, another rare and valuable coin. These coins are highly sought after, with values reaching tens of thousands of dollars.
The 1955 Doubled Die Penny
The 1955 doubled die penny is one of the most famous error coins in the Lincoln Wheat Penny series. The doubling is most noticeable in the inscriptions on the obverse, creating a striking and easily recognizable variety. Collectors love this coin for its dramatic appearance, and values can reach thousands of dollars.
The 1969-S Doubled Die Penny
Another dramatic error coin is the 1969-S doubled die penny. This variety shows strong doubling in the inscriptions, making it highly collectible. Because so few were produced, the coin is extremely rare and valuable. High-grade examples can sell for tens of thousands of dollars.
The 1972 Doubled Die Penny
The 1972 doubled die penny is another variety that collectors prize. The doubling is visible in the inscriptions on the obverse, making it easy to identify. While not as rare as the 1955 or 1969-S doubled dies, it is still valuable, especially in high grades.
The 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
The 1983 doubled die reverse penny is a modern variety that shows doubling on the reverse inscriptions. Collectors prize this coin for its uniqueness, and values can be significant depending on condition. It demonstrates that even modern coins can hold extraordinary value.
The 1992 Close AM Penny
The 1992 close AM penny is a rare variety created when the spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse was unusually close. This variety is highly collectible, and values can reach thousands of dollars. It is a reminder that small design differences can create big value.
The 1999 Wide AM Penny
The 1999 wide AM penny is another variety based on the spacing of the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.” In this case, the letters are spaced farther apart than usual. Collectors prize this coin, and values can be substantial depending on grade. The wide AM penny is a modern rarity that continues to intrigue numismatists.
The 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Penny Errors
In 2009, the U.S. Mint issued special Lincoln Bicentennial pennies to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth. Some of these coins feature striking errors, such as doubled designs or unusual surfaces. Collectors prize these error varieties, and values can be much higher than face value. The 2009 errors demonstrate how even commemorative issues can produce rare and valuable coins.
Why Lincoln Pennies Are Collectible
Lincoln pennies are collectible for several reasons. First, they represent a long-running series that spans more than a century. Second, they include numerous rare dates and varieties that make collecting exciting. Finally, the possibility of finding a valuable coin in everyday life adds an element of treasure hunting. Collectors enjoy the challenge of building complete sets and the thrill of discovering rare pieces.
The Role of Condition and Grading
Condition plays a major role in determining the value of Lincoln pennies. Coins that are uncirculated or professionally graded as mint state can be worth significantly more than circulated examples. Proof coins, struck with special care for collectors, are also highly prized. Professional grading services assign numerical grades that help establish value and authenticity. For collectors, investing in grading can protect their coins and ensure accurate valuation.
Tips for Identifying Valuable Pennies
Collectors should pay close attention to details when examining Lincoln pennies. Look for key dates such as 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, and 1931-S, as well as error varieties like the 1922 No D and 1955 doubled die. The mint mark, located below the date on the obverse, is crucial in determining rarity. Using a magnifying glass and consulting reliable coin guides can help identify valuable pieces. Patience and careful observation are key to spotting hidden treasures.
The Thrill of Coin Collecting
Coin collecting is more than just a hobby; it is a way to connect with history and culture. Each Lincoln penny tells a story about the time in which it was produced, from the early twentieth century to modern commemorations. Collectors enjoy the thrill of searching for rare coins, knowing that even a small mistake in minting can create significant value. The excitement of discovery keeps the hobby alive and engaging.
Conclusion
Rare Lincoln pennies represent the pinnacle of coin collecting. From the legendary 1909-S VDB to the modern 1999 wide AM, these coins offer both historical significance and monetary value. While most pennies are worth only one cent, the rarest examples can be worth thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. For collectors, keeping an eye out for valuable Lincoln pennies is a rewarding pursuit that combines history, artistry, and the excitement of discovery.
