Many collectors focus on Lincoln cents because they combine history, variety, and attainable rarity. This guide covers the top 4 rare Lincoln pennies wanted by collectors, how to identify them, and practical next steps if you find one.
Top 4 Rare Lincoln Pennies Wanted By Collectors
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB is a first-year Lincoln cent from the San Francisco mint with the designer’s initials VDB on the reverse. It is a classic key date and one of the most recognizable rare Lincoln pennies.
How to spot it:
- Look for the small letters VDB on the reverse near the rim at the bottom.
- Check for an S mint mark on the obverse under the date.
Why collectors value it: As a first-year issue and low-mintage San Francisco release, the 1909-S VDB is scarce in higher grades. Condition matters: even small wear reduces value significantly.
2. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
The 1914-D is a Denver mint key date that is scarce in all but low grades. It ranks among the classic early Lincoln cent rarities that collectors seek to complete type and date sets.
How to spot it:
- Find the small D mint mark under the date on the obverse.
- Compare strike and wear to known examples; these coins were often weakly struck.
Why collectors value it: The combination of low mintage and demand from date collectors pushes prices up for authentic, high-grade pieces.
3. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
The 1955 doubled die obverse is a famous mint error created by misalignment during hubbing. The doubling is especially visible on the date and the inscriptions in a bold, distinctive way.
How to spot it:
- Look for strong doubling on the word LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the date.
- Use magnification to see raised, separated lettering rather than surface damage.
Why collectors value it: This is one of the most iconic U.S. minting errors and remains highly sought for error sets and classic collections.
4. 1943 Bronze or Copper Lincoln Cent
Most 1943 cents were struck in zinc-coated steel due to wartime copper shortages. A very small number were mistakenly struck on bronze or copper planchets and those error pieces are extremely rare.
How to spot it:
- Test metal without damaging the coin—copper will have a distinct color and sound compared to steel.
- Look for normal Lincoln obverse and reverse designs with the 1943 date.
Why collectors value it: Because genuine 1943 bronze cents are few and often command strong prices among advanced collectors and museums.
How to identify and authenticate rare Lincoln pennies
Identifying rarity requires careful inspection and, often, professional help. Follow a basic workflow to avoid mistakes and preserve value.
- Initial visual check: Use a loupe or magnifier and good light to look for mint marks, doubling, and VDB initials.
- Metal test: For suspicious 1943 cents, do a non-destructive metal test or consult a professional rather than using magnets or household tools that could damage the coin.
- Compare images: Use reference images from reputable coin reference sites and auction houses.
- Get professional authentication: Submit to grading services like PCGS or NGC if you believe you have a key date or error piece.
Practical tips for handling and selling rare Lincoln pennies
Proper handling protects the coin’s surface and value. Avoid cleaning or polishing any coin you suspect is rare. Even light cleaning can destroy collector value.
- Handle by the edges with cotton gloves or clean fingers.
- Store in acid-free holders or coin flips rated for long-term storage.
- When selling, obtain at least two professional opinions and consider auction houses for top examples.
The 1955 doubled die is most visible in the date and LIBERTY because the obverse hubbing doubled during the initial striking. Many casual observers mistake this for damage rather than a mint error.
Real-world example: A find and authentication
A local collector reported finding a suspicious 1955 cent in circulated change. It showed strong doubling on LIBERTY and the date, so they stopped using it and consulted a dealer.
The dealer recommended submitting the coin to a major grading service. After authentication and grading, the coin was accepted as an authentic 1955 doubled die obverse and sold at auction to a specialist collector. The key steps were careful handling, professional authentication, and choosing the right sales channel.
Quick checklist for collectors hunting rare Lincoln pennies
- Carry a loupe and reference images when searching through rolls or collections.
- Never clean suspected rare coins; store them safely and seek advice.
- If you find a potential key date or error, photograph it clearly and get a second opinion.
- Use well-known grading services before selling high-value pieces.
Summary: Finding rare Lincoln pennies
Top collectors prize the 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1955 doubled die obverse, and 1943 bronze cent for rarity and historical interest. Identifying these coins requires attention to small details and sometimes professional testing.
With careful handling, clear documentation, and professional authentication, a discovered rare Lincoln penny can become a valuable and verifiable part of a collection.