While most pennies are worth just one cent, certain Lincoln Wheat Pennies have become incredibly valuable due to their rarity, unique characteristics, and historical significance.
One such coin recently fetched over $800,000 at auction. In this article, we explore five rare Lincoln Pennies, detailing their unique features and what makes them so valuable to collectors.
1. 1943-D Bronze Lincoln Penny
The 1943-D Bronze Lincoln Penny is among the rarest and most sought-after coins in U.S. numismatics. During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to zinc-coated steel for penny production due to a copper shortage. However, some copper planchets from 1942 remained, leading to accidental bronze pennies being minted in 1943. The 1943-D variety is especially rare.
Key Features:
- Year: 1943
- Mintmark: ‘D’ (Denver Mint)
- Composition: Bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc)
- Estimated Value: Up to $840,000
2. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny holds a special place in numismatic history. It was the first penny to feature the portrait of Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor David Brenner.
However, due to public outcry over the prominence of Brenner’s initials on the reverse, production ceased early, making this coin highly sought after by collectors.
Key Features:
- Year: 1909
- Mintmark: ‘S’ (San Francisco Mint)
- Mintage: Approximately 484,000 coins
- Estimated Value: Up to $1.1 million
3. 1922 No D Lincoln Penny
The 1922 No D Lincoln Penny is the result of a minting error where the ‘D’ mintmark was omitted due to worn-out dies. This error created a limited number of pennies without a mintmark, making them rare and highly valuable among collectors.
Key Features:
- Year: 1922
- Mintmark: None (No ‘D’ mintmark)
- Estimated Value: Up to $900,000
4. 1931-S Lincoln Penny
The 1931-S Lincoln Penny is notable for its low mintage, with only 866,000 coins produced. Its rarity, combined with the high demand among collectors, has made it one of the most valuable pennies in the series.
Key Features:
- Year: 1931
- Mintmark: ‘S’ (San Francisco Mint)
- Mintage: 866,000 coins
- Estimated Value: Up to $600,000
5. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny is famous for its noticeable doubling error. The date and lettering appear doubled due to a misalignment during the minting process. This flaw creates a visually striking effect, making it one of the most sought-after coins in the Lincoln series.
Key Features:
- Year: 1955
- Mintmark: None (Philadelphia Mint)
- Estimated Value: Up to $500,000
Summary of Rare Lincoln Pennies
| Coin Type | Year | Mintmark | Mintage | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1943-D Bronze Lincoln Penny | 1943 | D | N/A | Up to $840,000 |
| 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny | 1909 | S | 484,000 | Up to $1.1 million |
| 1922 No D Lincoln Penny | 1922 | None | N/A | Up to $900,000 |
| 1931-S Lincoln Penny | 1931 | S | 866,000 | Up to $600,000 |
| 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | 1955 | None | N/A | Up to $500,000 |
How to Identify and Preserve Rare Lincoln Pennies
Identification Tips:
- Examine the Date and Mintmark: Always check the year and mintmark for coins from these years.
- Use a Magnifying Glass: A magnifying glass can help you spot minting errors like the doubling on the 1955 penny.
- Weigh the Coin: Some rare pennies, like the 1943-D bronze penny, can be identified by their weight, which should be around 3.11 grams.
Preservation Tips:
- Avoid Cleaning: Cleaning your rare pennies can significantly reduce their value.
- Use Protective Storage: Store your coins in acid-free holders or holders specifically designed for coins to prevent damage.
- Handle with Care: Always handle rare coins with gloves to prevent oils from your skin from tarnishing the coin.
Finding one of these rare Lincoln Pennies in your pocket change is a long shot, but it’s not impossible. If you believe you’ve found one, be sure to handle it carefully, avoid cleaning it, and consult a professional numismatist for authentication. These coins are not just valuable; they are pieces of American history that could be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
FAQs
How can I tell if my 1909 penny is the VDB variety?
Look for the initials “VDB” on the reverse side, near the bottom. If they’re present, you have a 1909-S VDB penny.
What should I do if I find a rare Lincoln penny?
Handle it carefully, avoid cleaning it, and consult a professional for grading and valuation.
Are there other rare Lincoln pennies I should look for?
Yes, other valuable pennies include the 1914-D Lincoln penny, the 1937-D triple die, and the 1950-D Lincoln penny.