You could be just one coin away from a small fortune! If you’ve got a jar full of old pennies or inherited a coin collection, it’s time to take a closer look. Rare Lincoln pennies can be worth over $250,000, and just three specific dates could turn your pocket change into a major payday.
Let’s explore the top 3 rare Lincoln pennies you should look out for, their features, and why collectors are paying top dollar for them.
1. The 1943 Copper Penny – The $250,000 Treasure
During World War II, the U.S. Mint stopped using copper for pennies to conserve metal for ammunition and equipment. Instead, 1943 pennies were made from zinc-coated steel. However, a few copper planchets accidentally made it into production, resulting in an extremely rare error coin.
Key Features:
- Made from copper, not steel
- Weighs 3.11 grams
- Does not stick to a magnet (unlike steel)
- Bears the 1943 date
Estimated Value:
- Circulated: $100,000 – $250,000
- Uncirculated: Could fetch more at auction
2. The 1909-S VDB Penny – The First and Most Famous Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln cent was first minted in 1909. A small batch from the San Francisco Mint featured the designer’s initials “VDB” on the reverse. Due to public criticism over the visibility of the initials, they were quickly removed, making the 1909-S VDB penny highly collectible.
Key Features:
- Date: 1909
- Mint mark “S” below the date
- “VDB” initials on the bottom reverse
Estimated Value:
- Circulated: $900 – $3,000
- Uncirculated: Up to $90,000
3. The 1955 Doubled Die Obverse – A Collector’s Favorite Error Coin
In 1955, a minting error resulted in a dramatic doubling of the inscriptions on some Lincoln pennies. These error coins are known as doubled die obverse and are one of the most sought-after error coins by collectors.
Key Features:
- Visible doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and the date
- Not to be confused with minor machine doubling
Estimated Value:
- Circulated: $1,000 – $5,000
- Mint State: $10,000 – $40,000+
Rare Lincoln Pennies Worth Checking
| Penny Type | Key Features | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Penny | Non-magnetic, copper color, weighs 3.11g | $100,000 – $250,000 |
| 1909-S VDB Penny | “S” mint mark, VDB initials on reverse | $900 – $90,000 |
| 1955 Doubled Die Obverse | Clearly doubled text on obverse | $1,000 – $40,000+ |
Tips to Identify Rare Pennies
- Use a magnifying glass to check for mint marks and doubling
- Conduct a magnet test for the 1943 penny
- Weigh your coin with a jeweler’s scale
- Avoid cleaning the coin — it reduces value
If you believe you have one of these coins, consult a reputable coin dealer or have it professionally graded to determine its market value.
You could be holding onto a Lincoln penny worth thousands — even over $250,000 — without realizing it. Check your coin collection for these three rare key dates and their features. With minimal effort, you might uncover a treasure that’s been hiding in plain sight.
It’s time to dig out those old coins and take a closer look — your next big payday might be a penny away.
FAQs
How do I know if my 1943 penny is copper or steel?
Use a magnet. Copper pennies will not stick, while steel ones will.
Are all 1909 pennies valuable?
Only the 1909-S VDB version is highly valuable. Regular 1909 pennies without the “S” or “VDB” are far more common.
How can I confirm a 1955 doubled die penny?
Look for clear, bold doubling on the date and lettering. If in doubt, get it authenticated by a coin grading service.