Many people overlook loose change, but certain United States pennies are highly collectible and can be worth thousands. This guide explains the top 5 rare pennies that could be hiding at home, how to identify them, and what to do if you find one.
Top 5 Rare Pennies You Might Find at Home
Below are five penny types that often turn up in household collections or jars. Values vary widely with condition and authenticity, so use the identification tips that follow.
1. 1943 Bronze (Copper) Lincoln Cent
Most 1943 cents were struck in zinc-coated steel. A very small number were mistakenly struck on bronze (copper) planchets from previous years.
- Identification: Look for a Lincoln cent that is brown or reddish, not silver-gray.
- Why it’s rare: A minting error created a tiny population of these copper coins.
- Value range: From tens of thousands to well over six figures for certified examples.
2. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
The 1955 doubled die shows clear doubling on the date and the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This is a classic find for mid-20th-century collectors.
- Identification: Magnify the coin and look for distinct doubling of lettering, not a flat or weak strike.
- Why it’s rare: A hubbing mistake at the Mint created dramatic doubling, and relatively few high-grade coins survived.
- Value range: Several thousand dollars for circulated examples up to five-figure prices for high-grade specimens.
3. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB is a key-date Lincoln cent. The initials VDB (for designer Victor D. Brenner) appear on the reverse. The San Francisco Mint produced fewer coins that year, making this issue scarce.
- Identification: Look on the reverse near the wreath for the initials VDB.
- Why it’s rare: Low mintage and demand from early collectors.
- Value range: From a few thousand dollars in lower grades to tens of thousands in mint state.
4. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
The 1914-D (Denver mint) is a classic key date for Lincoln cents. Many circulated heavily, so well-preserved examples command premiums.
- Identification: Date reads 1914, and the mintmark D under the wreath on the reverse.
- Why it’s rare: Low mintage and the coin’s age mean few high-grade survivors exist.
- Value range: Hundreds to tens of thousands depending on grade.
5. 1864 Indian Head Cent with L on Ribbon
Some 1864 Indian Head cents show a small L on the ribbon of Liberty’s hair bow. That tiny letter marks a distinct variety prized by collectors.
- Identification: Under magnification, look on the ribbon behind Liberty’s ear for a tiny L.
- Why it’s rare: It’s an early-issue variety that attracts specialists.
- Value range: From several hundred dollars up to tens of thousands for premium grades.
How to Check and Verify Rare Pennies
If you suspect you have a rare penny, follow these steps before selling or cleaning it.
- Do not clean the coin. Cleaning can destroy surface details and cut auction value.
- Use a magnifier or loupe (10x) to inspect date, mintmarks, and doubling or mint errors.
- Compare to reliable references: PCGS, NGC, and professional guides have clear photos and descriptions.
- Weigh and measure: Some error coins differ slightly in weight or thickness from normal cents.
When to Get Professional Grading
Professional grading (by PCGS, NGC, or ANACS) is worth it for coins expected to fetch significant sums. Grading confirms authenticity and assigns a condition grade buyers trust.
- Consider grading if the estimated value is above a few hundred dollars.
- Certified coins sell more easily at auction or to dealers.
One of the most famous cases involved a 1943 bronze Lincoln cent found in circulation. Mistaken planchets from earlier years caused a few bronze strikes in 1943, and these coins have sold for six-figure sums at auction when certified.
Where to Sell or Get an Appraisal
Once you confirm a coin’s rarity, choose a selling route that matches your comfort level and target price.
- Local coin dealers: Good for quick offers, but shop around for multiple quotes.
- Auctions: Best for high-value coins; established auction houses attract serious collectors.
- Online marketplaces: eBay and specialist forums can reach a wide audience, but require clear photos and accurate grading.
- Coin shows: You can get in-person opinions from experienced dealers and collectors.
Tips for a Better Sale
- Get a professional grade if the coin is valuable.
- Provide provenance and clear, high-resolution photos.
- Disclose any damage or cleaning to avoid disputes.
Real-World Example
In a widely reported auction, a 1943 copper Lincoln cent—an extreme mint error—sold for a seven-figure sum after authentication. That sale shows how a single rare penny can dramatically exceed typical face value. The buyer paid a premium for rarity and verified authenticity, which is why grading and proper documentation matter.
If you find a coin you think matches one of the varieties above, follow the verification steps, avoid cleaning it, and consult reputable graders or dealers. Even circulated rare pennies can be worth substantially more than face value if they are genuine and well-documented.
Finding a rare penny at home is uncommon, but not impossible. With careful inspection and the right steps, you could turn a jar of change into a valuable collector’s piece.