Collectors and casual finders alike can be stunned to learn a small copper coin may be worth far more than face value. This guide outlines ten of the most sought-after twentieth century pennies, how to identify them, and practical steps to evaluate coins.
Why these Top 10 Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century matter
Scarcity, minting errors, and historical context drive demand and market value for rare pennies. Many of the coins below are valuable because of limited mintage, unusual mint errors, or survival rates in high grade.
Understanding identifying marks and typical value ranges helps collectors avoid mistakes and spot potential finds.
Top 10 Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
1. 1909-S VDB — Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent is famous among collectors. Designed by Victor D. Brenner, the initials VDB appeared prominently on the reverse and were removed mid-year, making the San Francisco issue rare.
- Identification: Look for VDB initials on the reverse and an S mintmark on the obverse.
- Value: From low thousands in circulated grades to much higher in Mint State.
2. 1914-D — Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
The 1914-D Lincoln cent is scarce because of limited Denver mintage and many coins circulated heavily. High-grade survivors are particularly prized.
- Identification: D mintmark under the date; weak strike on some examples.
- Value: Often several thousand dollars for higher grades.
3. 1922 No D (Plain) — Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
Known as the 1922 Plain (no D) cent, this variety occurred when the Denver mint’s D mintmark was weakly struck or omitted. It is rare, especially in better condition.
- Identification: No mintmark visible, usually with a filled die appearance on the date area.
- Value: Varies widely by grade; high-grade examples command premiums.
4. 1931-S — Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
The 1931-S Lincoln cent is scarce due to low San Francisco mintage. Many survivors are worn, so nicer pieces are worth a premium.
- Identification: S mintmark on the obverse; check for full details on hair and cheek for higher grade.
- Value: Frequently thousands in higher grades.
5. 1943 Copper — Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
Most 1943 cents were made in steel to conserve copper for WWII. A few copper planchets were mistakenly struck, producing extremely rare 1943 copper cents.
- Identification: Brown color like a typical copper cent; careful testing by professionals is recommended to confirm metal content.
- Value: Examples have fetched six- and seven-figure sums at auction, depending on certification and condition.
6. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse — Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
The 1955 doubled die obverse shows obvious doubling in the date and the words IN GOD WE TRUST and LIBERTY. This striking error is one of the most recognized and collectible modern cents.
- Identification: Strong doubling on the date and lettering on the obverse.
- Value: From hundreds to tens of thousands depending on grade.
7. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse — Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
The 1969-S doubled die obverse is rare and typically found in proof sets. It shows doubling on the obverse lettering and date.
- Identification: Doubling on the obverse; often a proof finish with cameo contrast.
- Value: High-grade certified examples can be worth significant sums.
8. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse — Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
Although not as famous as 1955, the 1972 doubled die obverse varieties are collectible. Clear doubling on letters and date indicates desirability.
- Identification: Visible doubling on IN GOD WE TRUST or LIBERTY.
- Value: Moderate to strong premiums in certified higher grades.
9. 1983 Die Variety Errors — Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
In 1982–1983 the Mint changed planchets and dies, producing a few notable die varieties and weak strikes. Some rare varieties from this era attract specialist collectors.
- Identification: Unusual doubling, repunched mintmarks, or die cracks.
- Value: Depends on rarity and collector interest; certification helps.
10. 1992 Close AM / Wide AM Varieties — Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
The 1992 Lincoln cents include Close AM and Wide AM reverse varieties. While not as valuable as early 20th-century rarities, they are modern collectible varieties many beginners pursue.
- Identification: Check spacing of AM in UNITED STATES OF AMERICA on the reverse.
- Value: Typically modest, but sought in high grades and certified examples.
Some of the most valuable pennies are errors from normal circulation years. A single mis-struck coin can be worth thousands, while others from the same year remain only face value.
How to authenticate and assess rare pennies
Start with careful visual inspection under magnification and good lighting. Compare your coin to trusted images and descriptions from grading services.
For potential high-value finds, seek professional grading and authentication from an established service (PCGS, NGC, ANACS). Certification often increases buyer confidence and market value.
Practical tips for buyers and finders
- Handle coins by the edges and store in inert holders to avoid damage.
- Use online resources and recent auction records to estimate value ranges.
- When in doubt, get a second opinion from a reputable dealer or grader.
Real-world example
A collector discovered a 1943 copper Lincoln cent in a dealer lot and had it authenticated. Professional grading confirmed the coin was a genuine 1943 bronze error, and it was subsequently sold at auction for a seven-figure price.
This case illustrates why authentication and provenance matter. Even experienced collectors rely on certified grading to achieve top market prices.
Conclusion and next steps
Knowing the top 10 rare pennies of the twentieth century helps collectors focus attention and budget wisely. Start by learning identifying features, check coins carefully, and use professional services for high-value pieces.
With patience and sound verification, common pocket change can sometimes lead to exceptional discoveries.