You might think of pennies as just small, inexpensive coins that aren’t worth much. But some Lincoln pennies are actually worth a lot more than you’d expect! In fact, certain rare pennies from different years are worth thousands of dollars. If you’ve been tossing your pennies into a jar, you could be throwing away a potential goldmine. Let’s dive into seven Lincoln pennies that could be worth a fortune in 2024.
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S VDB is one of the most sought-after Lincoln pennies. Only a small number of these coins were made, and they feature the initials “VDB” (for designer Victor David Brenner) on the reverse side. This penny is rare because it was quickly pulled from circulation. In 2024, one in good condition can sell for over $1,000!
2. 1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D penny is another rare find that can make you rich. With only a small number of these coins minted, it is difficult to find one in good condition. Depending on its grade, this penny could be worth anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 in 2024.
3. 1922 No D Lincoln Penny
The 1922 No D penny is one of the most famous errors in coin history. Due to a mistake during minting, the “D” mintmark, which indicates that the coin was made in Denver, was left off the coin. This rare error penny can be worth up to $10,000 or more!
4. 1931-S Lincoln Penny
Although not as famous as some of the other pennies, the 1931-S Lincoln penny is still quite valuable. Because very few were minted, it is rare and can be worth over $1,000 in good condition. Some collectors might even pay more for one in excellent shape!
| Coin | Year | Why It’s Valuable | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny | 1943 | Minting error: Few copper pennies were made instead of steel ones in 1943. | $100,000 to $1 million |
| 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny | 1909 | Rare due to the “VDB” initials removed from the coin after public outcry. | $1,000 to $50,000+ |
| 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny | 1955 | Minting error causing doubled date and lettering. | $1,000 to $10,000 |
| 1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny | 1969-S | Double die error on the date and lettering, a rare and highly collectible variety. | $20,000 to $200,000 |
| 1922 No D Lincoln Penny | 1922 | Missing mintmark (D), making it one of the most sought-after errors. | $10,000 to $50,000 |
| 1983 Double Die Lincoln Penny | 1983 | Minting error with the date and lettering doubled. | $1,000 to $2,000 |
| 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny | 1970-S | Minting error with a small date that makes it rare among collectors. | $2,000 to $5,000 |
5. 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
In 1943, the U.S. Mint changed the metal used for pennies to steel due to copper shortages during World War II. However, a few copper pennies were mistakenly minted that year, making them extremely rare. A 1943 copper penny could fetch up to $100,000 or more, depending on its condition.
6. 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1955 Double Die penny is a special coin because of a rare minting error. The coin has a doubled image on the date and other parts of the design. This mistake makes it a collector’s dream and worth thousands of dollars, with some fetching over $10,000 in 2024.
7. 1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1969-S Double Die penny has another interesting minting error. Similar to the 1955 Double Die penny, the image is doubled. The most valuable ones are in good condition and can sell for more than $20,000, making it one of the most valuable pennies out there.
FAQs
Why are some Lincoln pennies worth so much?
Some Lincoln pennies are rare because of minting errors, low production numbers, or unique characteristics. These factors make them highly sought after by collectors, raising their value far beyond their face value. For example, rare minting errors like double dies or missing mintmarks can make a penny incredibly valuable.
What is a double die penny, and why is it valuable?
A double die penny occurs when the design is struck twice during minting, causing the image (especially the date) to appear doubled. This mistake makes the coin unique and valuable, as collectors look for these errors. The 1955 and 1969-S double die Lincoln pennies are great examples.
How can I tell if my Lincoln penny is valuable?
You can tell if your Lincoln penny is valuable by checking for certain features, such as minting errors (e.g., double dies, missing mintmarks) or rare dates. Coins in good condition with no wear or damage are also worth more. It’s important to research the coin and compare it to known examples of valuable pennies.
What is the value of a 1943 copper Lincoln penny?
A 1943 copper Lincoln penny is one of the most valuable pennies ever made due to a minting error. Only a few copper pennies were accidentally minted in 1943, and they can be worth anywhere from $100,000 to $1 million, depending on their condition and rarity.
Why is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny so valuable?
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny is valuable because of its limited production and the “VDB” initials of its designer, which were initially removed from the coin due to public criticism. Only a small number of these pennies were made, making them rare and highly sought after by collectors.
While most pennies might only be worth a cent or two, these rare Lincoln pennies are worth much more and could turn into a huge windfall for those who find them. If you have any of these coins in your collection, it’s worth checking their value. Collecting rare coins is not only fun but can also be a rewarding hobby that may make you a lot of money.
