For many people, pennies are just small change. However, to collectors and numismatists, certain pennies are truly priceless—sometimes worth more than gold itself.
Since 1793, the U.S. Mint has produced billions of pennies, but only a select few have gained fame due to their rarity, historical importance, or unique minting mistakes. These rare coins can sell for thousands or even millions of dollars at auction. Here are 13 of the most valuable and rarest pennies ever minted in the United States.
1943 Copper Penny
The 1943 Copper Penny is a legendary rarity among U.S. coin collectors. During World War II, to save copper for the war effort, the U.S. Mint switched to steel pennies. Yet, a small number of copper planchets accidentally slipped through and were struck as pennies.
Only about 20 of these rare coins are known to exist today. Due to their extreme scarcity and the intrigue surrounding them, these pennies have sold for as much as $1.7 million at auctions. If you come across a 1943 penny that isn’t magnetic, you might be holding a true treasure.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent was the inaugural year of the Lincoln penny series, minted in San Francisco with just 484,000 coins bearing the designer’s initials, V.D.B. (Victor David Brenner), on the reverse.
After the public expressed dissatisfaction with the prominent initials, the Mint removed them from subsequent issues. This coin’s combination of low mintage, historical importance, and unique markings makes it highly coveted. In pristine condition, it can command a value exceeding $100,000.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
Among the most famous minting errors, the 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent exhibits pronounced doubling on the front, especially noticeable on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
This error happened due to misalignment during the minting process and is highly visible to collectors. Even pennies that show wear can be worth thousands of dollars. Collectors with sharp eyes continually seek out this iconic coin.
1877 Indian Head Cent
The 1877 Indian Head Cent is a cornerstone rarity in the Indian Head series and one of the scarcest pennies produced in the United States. With only about 850,000 originally minted, fewer have survived in good condition.
Its rarity is also linked to its production during the economic downturn of the late 1870s. High-quality specimens can fetch prices exceeding $7,000.
1922 No D Lincoln Cent
The 1922 penny was exclusively minted in Denver, but some examples show no “D” mintmark due to excessive die wear. These “No D” pennies are exceptionally rare and sought after by collectors.
They are prized not only for their scarcity but also as a unique minting anomaly. Uncirculated versions can bring tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
1944 Steel Penny
Similar to the 1943 Copper Penny, the 1944 Steel Penny is another rare mistake. In 1944, the U.S. Mint resumed using copper, but a few steel planchets from the previous year were accidentally used.
Only a small number have been found, making them extremely valuable. One such coin sold for more than $375,000 in 2021.
1909-S Indian Head Penny
This penny, marking the final year of the Indian Head series, was minted in very limited quantities—only about 309,000. Although it’s often overlooked compared to the Lincoln cents that followed, serious collectors recognize its importance.
A well-preserved 1909-S Indian Head Cent can easily reach prices over $5,000, making it one of the rarest Indian Head coins available.
1856 Flying Eagle Cent
Though technically a pattern coin rather than a regular circulation issue, the 1856 Flying Eagle Cent served as a prototype for the smaller cent design.
Approximately 2,000 were produced and distributed to members of Congress and other dignitaries. Today, these coins are highly prized by collectors. Verified examples can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to over $25,000.
1864 Indian Head Cent with “L” on Ribbon
Late in 1864, the Mint introduced a design change to the Indian Head penny by adding an “L” on the ribbon of the headdress, recognizing the designer James B. Longacre.
This subtle modification resulted in two distinct varieties within the same year. The “L” variety is significantly rarer and can command thousands of dollars when found in uncirculated condition.
1972 Doubled Die Obverse Penny
This penny displays clear doubling on the front, especially noticeable in the date and lettering. While not as famous as the 1955 Doubled Die, it is still highly prized by collectors.
Coins in excellent condition can sell for several thousand dollars. It remains a favorite among enthusiasts who enjoy searching for unusual minting errors.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
Unlike many doubled die coins that show doubling on the obverse, the 1983 Lincoln cent has strong doubling on the reverse side, particularly in the phrases “ONE CENT” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
Being a more recent error, many examples are still in excellent shape. Its rarity and eye-catching doubling make it highly sought after, with values reaching into the thousands.
1992 Close AM Penny
In 1992, an unusual variety of the Lincoln Memorial penny appeared, struck with a proof reverse die causing the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” to be extremely close together instead of spaced apart.
Only a handful of these “Close AM” pennies have been discovered. In top condition, they can be valued at $5,000 or more.
1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny
One of the rarest doubled die pennies from the modern era, the 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse features dramatic doubling similar to the 1955 variety. Only a few examples have been confirmed.
Its scarcity combined with striking visual features make it highly valuable. A mint-condition specimen once sold for more than $35,000.
FAQs
Q1: How can I tell if I have a rare penny?
Look for specific minting errors, dates, and mintmarks. Using a magnifying glass and a reputable coin guide helps, but professional grading is the safest way to verify valuable coins.
Q2: What is the most valuable penny ever sold?
The 1943 Copper Penny holds the record, having sold for over $1.7 million at auction.
Q3: Are wheat pennies worth anything?
Yes, especially early issues from 1909 through the 1930s, and those with rare mintmarks like the 1909-S VDB or the 1922 No D.
Q4: Can valuable pennies still be found in circulation today?
It’s uncommon but possible. Errors like the 1992 Close AM or 1983 Doubled Die Reverse have been discovered in everyday change.
Conclusion
These 13 pennies are more than just old coins—they represent fascinating chapters in American history, examples of unique minting craftsmanship, and rare collectibles that could be waiting in your pocket or coin collection.
Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or a curious beginner, knowing which pennies might hold extraordinary value could turn your everyday change into a treasure trove. Your next lucky penny might be worth far more than you think.
