Money

8 Rare Penny Varieties Worth Hundreds – A Must-Have for Coin Collectors

Published

2 days ago

January 31, 2025

Kelly

8 Rare Penny Varieties Worth Hundreds – A Must-Have for Coin Collectors

Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby that combines history, art, and the thrill of discovery. Among the myriad of coins, certain penny varieties have gained prominence due to their rarity and significant value.

For both seasoned numismatists and newcomers, identifying these rare pennies can be both rewarding and profitable.

1. 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent

In 1943, the U.S. Mint transitioned from copper to zinc-coated steel for penny production to conserve copper during World War II.

However, a few copper planchets were mistakenly used, resulting in the 1943 copper Lincoln cent. Due to their scarcity, these coins can command prices up to $240,000, especially when graded AU50.

2. 1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent

The 1955 double die Lincoln cent is renowned for its prominent doubling on the obverse, particularly in the date and “LIBERTY” inscription.

This error occurred during the minting process, making it a highly sought-after coin among collectors. Specimens in excellent condition can fetch substantial amounts at auctions.

3. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent

Minted in San Francisco, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent is notable for its low mintage of 484,000 coins.

The “VDB” initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner, were initially placed on the reverse but were later removed due to public outcry. Coins bearing these initials are particularly rare and valuable.

4. 1969-S Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent

The 1969-S double die obverse Lincoln cent features noticeable doubling on the obverse, especially in the date and “LIBERTY” inscription.

Due to the limited number of these errors, they are highly coveted by collectors and can command significant prices.

5. 1944 Steel Wheat Penny

In 1944, the U.S. Mint returned to using steel planchets for penny production. However, a few 1944 steel wheat pennies were mistakenly struck, making them extremely rare.

These coins are highly valuable and can be worth thousands of dollars, depending on their condition.

6. 1922 No D Lincoln Cent

The 1922 Lincoln cent is unique because some coins were struck without a mintmark, despite being produced at the Denver Mint.

This error occurred due to a worn die, resulting in the absence of the “D” mintmark. These coins are rare and can be worth thousands of dollars.

7. 1983-D Bronze Lincoln Cent

In 1983, the U.S. Mint transitioned to zinc-core pennies with copper plating. However, a few bronze planchets from 1982 were mistakenly used in 1983, resulting in the 1983-D bronze Lincoln cent.

These coins are rare and can be worth up to $1,400.

8. 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent

The 1958 doubled die obverse Lincoln cent features noticeable doubling on the obverse, particularly in the date and “LIBERTY” inscription.

This error occurred during the minting process, making it a highly sought-after coin among collectors. Specimens in excellent condition can fetch substantial amounts at auctions.

Overview of Rare Penny Varieties

Coin Name	Mint Year	Key Features	Estimated Value Range
1943 Copper Lincoln Cent	1943	Struck on copper planchets instead of steel; extremely rare.	Up to $240,000
1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent	1955	Prominent doubling on obverse, especially in date and “LIBERTY” inscription.	High auction prices
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent	1909	Low mintage; “VDB” initials on reverse; highly collectible.	Significant value
1969-S Double Die Obverse Cent	1969	Noticeable doubling on obverse; rare error.	High auction prices
1944 Steel Wheat Penny	1944	Mistakenly struck on steel planchets; extremely rare.	Worth thousands
1922 No D Lincoln Cent	1922	Struck without “D” mintmark due to worn die; rare error.	Worth thousands
1983-D Bronze Lincoln Cent	1983	Struck on 1982 bronze planchets; rare error.	Up to $1,400
1958 Doubled Die Obverse Cent	1958	Noticeable doubling on obverse; rare error.	High auction prices

FAQs

What makes a penny rare and valuable?

A penny becomes rare and valuable due to factors such as low mintage numbers, minting errors, historical significance, and high demand among collectors.

How can I identify a valuable penny?

To identify a valuable penny, examine its date, mintmark, and any unique features or errors. Consulting a reputable coin guide or a professional numismatist can also provide valuable insights.

Are all 1943 pennies valuable?

No, not all 1943 pennies are valuable. Only those struck on copper planchets are considered rare and valuable. Most 1943 pennies were struck on steel planchets and are common.