Penny collecting is an interesting hobby, and some coins are really worth lots greater than their face fee. Certain uncommon pennies have come to be extraordinarily treasured due to their low mintage, historic significance, and uncommon minting errors.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning, knowing about these precious pennies ought to lead to an interesting locating. Let’s take a better take a look at 5 of the rarest and maximum treasured pennies in U.S. History.
1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny is one of the maximum sought-after cash in numismatics.
Historical Background
This coin was minted in San Francisco to mark the one hundredth anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It become designed by way of Victor David Brenner, whose initials are visible on the back as “V.D.B.” Controversy over the initials resulted of their elimination as quickly as manufacturing changed into underway, making this penny uncommon and well-liked as a collector’s coin.
Key Features
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Bears Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse and two stalks of wheat on the reverse
Value
Since only 484,000 were produced, this penny is very valuable.
- Lower grades: $600 to $1,000
- Fine to extremely fine condition: $1,500 to $2,500
- Uncirculated specimens: $3,000 to $10,000 or more
How to Identify
- Check for the “S” mint mark below the date
- Look for “V.D.B.” initials at the bottom of the reverse
1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D Lincoln Penny is yet another date and key coin sought by collectors.
Historical Background
As with error coins, this penny’s value is created by its mintage being very low. The coin was made in Denver, and since so few were retained in high condition, finding it in uncirculated condition is very rare.
Key Features
- Mint Mark: D (Denver)
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Like other early Lincoln pennies with wheat stalks on the back
Value
With a total of only 1.1 million made, this penny is not easy to find in good shape.
- Good condition: $200 to $400
- Fine to extremely fine condition: $1,000 to $2,000
- Uncirculated: $3,000 to $10,000+
How to Identify
- Check for the “D” mint mark under the date
- Be wary of 1944-D pennies that have been altered to look like 1914-D
1922 No D Lincoln Penny
The 1922 No D Lincoln Penny is possibly the most noted error penny of all time.
Historical Background
Pennies in 1922 were all minted in Denver and were intended to have a “D” mint mark. This did not always happen, as some coins, through die wear and over polishing, lacked the mint mark, resulting in this scarce variation.
Key Features
- Mint Mark: No mint mark (should have D)
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Lincoln’s portrait is on the obverse and wheat stalks are on the reverse
Value
Due to its scarcity, this penny fetches good prices.
- Good condition: $500 to $1,000
- Fine to extremely fine condition: $1,500 to $5,000
- Uncirculated: $10,000 to $30,000 or higher
How to Identify
- Check that the date is 1922
- Find a missing mint mark (some weak “D” varieties exist but are worth less)
- Ensure the reverse design is strong, as weak reverse varieties are less valuable
1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny is the most popular and recognizable error coin.
Historical Background
A die misalignment that struck the obverse resulted in a doubling of the date and inscriptions that can be seen easily. This mistake was circulated before it was discovered, and as such, it is a collector’s item.
Key Features
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Carries Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse side and wheat stalks on the reverse side
Value
With its stunning doubling effect, this penny is much sought after.
- Circulated: $1,000-$2,500
- Uncirculated: $5,000-$25,000
- High-grade specimens: $50,000+
How to Identify
- Observe good doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST“
- The date “1955” must be clear doubling
- Inspect the details under a magnifying glass
1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny is another error coin that has greatly appreciated in value.
Historical Background
Similar to the 1955 variant, this coin has a remarkable double die error, but it is much rarer. Counterfeit versions had been circulating for years, so authentication was key.
Key Features
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Displays Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse and wheat stalks on the reverse
Value
With only a few examples known, this penny sells for high prices.
- Circulated: $10,000 to $20,000
- Uncirculated: $30,000 to $75,000+
How to Identify
- Check for bold doubling in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST“
- The date “1969” must also exhibit sharp doubling
- Authenticity can be confirmed with a professional grading service
Could You Get One of These Pennies Rarities?
Rare pennies may be lurking in your change pocket, coin jars, or older collections. Discovering one of these rare coins might be a life-altering find. If you suspect that you do have a rare penny, get it professionally graded and authenticated by a coin grading service.
Whether it’s the vintage 1909-S V.D.B. penny or the mythical 1955 Double Die, these tiny copper coins show that a penny saved is a penny earned—many times over.
Conclusion
These pennies have transformed the lives of fortunate discoverers. If you find an old or odd penny, examine it more closely before you spend it! It might be worth millions. Coin enthusiasts and professionals advise inspecting for distinctive details and consulting a professional if you believe you’ve discovered a rare gem.
FAQ’s
What is the value of a 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny?
Depending on condition, it is $600 to more than $10,000.
Why is the 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny worth money?
It has a striking doubling of the date and inscriptions and is very collectible.
What is unique about the 1922 No D Lincoln Penny?
It was meant to bear a ‘D’ mint mark but was minted without it as a result of die wear.