Lincoln pennies, a staple of American currency since 1909, are often overlooked in daily transactions. However, certain rare editions of these coins have become highly sought after by collectors, fetching prices well over $100,000.
This article delves into the top 10 Lincoln pennies that could be hiding in your pocket, detailing their unique features and the reasons behind their substantial value.
1. 1943-D Bronze Cent
In 1943, due to World War II, the U.S. Mint produced pennies using zinc-coated steel to conserve copper. However, a few bronze planchets from previous years were mistakenly used, resulting in the rare 1943-D Bronze Cent. Only one such coin is known to exist, making it exceptionally valuable. In 2010, this unique penny sold for $1.7 million, setting a record for the most expensive Lincoln cent ever sold.
2. 1943-S Bronze Cent
Similar to the Denver mint error, the San Francisco Mint also produced a few bronze cents in 1943. Approximately five of these coins are known to exist. One of these rare pennies was sold for $504,000 in 2020, highlighting its significant value among collectors.
3. 1944 Steel Cent
In 1944, the U.S. Mint reverted to using copper for penny production. However, a few steel planchets from 1943 were accidentally used, resulting in the rare 1944 Steel Cent. These coins are highly prized, with one example selling for $373,750.
4. 1958 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1958 Doubled Die Obverse penny features a noticeable doubling of the date and the inscription “LIBERTY” on the obverse side. Only three examples of this error are known, making it extremely rare. One of these pennies sold for $1.14 million in 2023, marking it as one of the most valuable Lincoln cents.
5. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
This penny exhibits significant doubling on the obverse inscriptions, including “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Fewer than 100 of these error coins are known to exist. In 2008, a 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse penny graded MS64 Red fetched $126,500 at auction.
6. 1970-S Small Date High 7
The 1970-S Small Date penny with a “High 7” in the date is a rare variety. The “7” in the date is positioned higher than the other digits. In high grades, this coin can be worth up to $3,000.
7. 1992 Close AM
The 1992 Close AM penny features the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse side being closer together than usual. This variety is rare, with uncirculated examples selling for up to $20,000.
8. 1995 Doubled Die Obverse
This penny displays noticeable doubling on the obverse inscriptions. While more common than other errors, high-grade examples can still fetch significant prices, with some selling for up to $50.
9. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse
The 1983 Doubled Die Reverse penny shows doubling on the reverse inscriptions. In high grades, these coins can be worth up to $1,500.
10. 1984 Doubled Die Obverse
This penny features doubling on the obverse, particularly noticeable on Lincoln’s ear. High-grade examples can be worth up to $800.
Top 10 Valuable Lincoln Pennies
| Year | Description | Unique Feature | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943-D | Bronze Cent | Only known example | $1.7 million |
| 1943-S | Bronze Cent | Approximately five known | $504,000 |
| 1944 | Steel Cent | Minted on steel planchet | $373,750 |
| 1958 | Doubled Die Obverse | Significant doubling on obverse | $1.14 million |
| 1969-S | Doubled Die Obverse | Doubling on obverse inscriptions | $126,500 |
| 1970-S | Small Date High 7 | “7” in date positioned higher | $3,000 |
| 1992 | Close AM | “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” close | $20,000 |
| 1995 | Doubled Die Obverse | Doubling on obverse inscriptions | $50 |
| 1983 | Doubled Die Reverse | Doubling on reverse inscriptions | $1,500 |
| 1984 | Doubled Die Obverse | Doubling on Lincoln’s ear | $800 |
While the chances of finding one of these rare Lincoln pennies in your pocket change are slim, it’s not impossible. Paying close attention to the details of your coins, such as mint marks, dates, and any unusual features, could lead to a valuable discovery. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious novice, examining your pennies could uncover a hidden treasure worth over $100,000.
FAQs
How can I identify a 1943 Bronze Cent?
A 1943 Bronze Cent will not be attracted to a magnet, unlike the common steel cents from that year. Additionally, it will have a distinctive copper color.
What is a “Doubled Die” penny?
A “Doubled Die” penny results from a minting error where the design is impressed twice, slightly offset, creating a doubling effect on the coin’s inscriptions or images.
Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
No, most 1943 pennies are made of steel and are common. Only the rare bronze versions are highly valuable.
