Top 10 Rare Lincoln Pennies Still in Circulation
Many rare Lincoln cents still turn up in everyday change. This guide lists ten important dates and varieties to watch for and gives clear steps to inspect coins safely.
1. 1909-S VDB (Rare Lincoln Penny)
The 1909-S VDB is one of the most famous key dates. Look for the designer initials VDB on the reverse rim under the wreath.
Why it matters: Low mintage and collector demand make even worn examples valuable. Typical circulated values range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars based on condition.
2. 1909-S (No VDB)
The non‑VDB 1909-S is rarer in some grades due to the San Francisco strike. Check the S mint mark under the date.
Note: Condition and strike quality affect value strongly. A sharp example can command a high premium.
3. 1914-D (Rare Lincoln Penny)
Look for the small D mint mark under the date. The 1914-D is scarce and sought by collectors, especially in higher grades.
In circulated condition, values commonly fall in the hundreds, rising steeply for better strikes.
4. 1922 Plain (No D) Lincoln Penny
The 1922 plain cent was struck at the Denver mint but often lacks a visible D. True no‑D 1922 cents are rare.
Check for a filled or weak mint mark; magnification helps confirm a genuine plain example.
5. 1931-S Lincoln Penny
1931-S cents have low mintage and are hard to find in circulation. The S mint mark is the key identifier.
Even modestly worn pieces are valuable to date collectors.
6. 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent (Error)
Most 1943 cents are steel coated with zinc. A small number were struck on copper planchets by mistake and are highly prized.
These coins are heavier and have a brownish copper color. Genuine examples sell for from hundreds to many thousands depending on condition and authentication.
7. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse (Rare Lincoln Penny)
The 1955 Doubled Die Obverse shows clear doubling on the date and the words IN GOD WE TRUST and LIBERTY. The doubling is strong and obvious to the naked eye on good examples.
This variety is a classic and can be worth hundreds to thousands, even in circulated grades.
8. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
Look for doubling on the date and motto on the obverse. The 1969-S doubled die is scarce in circulation and commands higher prices for well‑struck examples.
Use magnification; some weak doubling is common and not collectible, so clarity matters.
9. 1970-S Doubled Die and Die Varieties
Some 1970-S proof and business strike varieties show notable doubling or die breaks. These are less dramatic than 1955 but are still collectible.
Careful comparison with reference images helps confirm a variety.
10. Modern Key Varieties to Watch
Recent decades produced collectible varieties like repunched mint marks, doubled dies, and proof‑only errors. While not as consistently valuable as older keys, they still appear in circulation occasionally.
Examples: repunched mint marks on 1980s cents, certain 2009 design varieties, and packaging errors from mint sets.
How to Check Your Change for Rare Pennies
Checking change is simple and safe when done carefully. Use basic tools and a consistent process to identify possible rarities.
Tools and Quick Steps
- Good light and a loupe (10x) or smartphone macro camera.
- Soft cloth or glove to avoid oils if you plan to handle high‑value coins.
- Reference images from a reputable coin guide or PCGS/NGC for comparison.
Step-by-step
- Sort pennies by color and weight — 1943 copper will stand out by color and heft.
- Check dates and mint marks with magnification.
- Look for obvious doubling on the obverse for doubled die varieties.
- If you find a potential rarity, avoid cleaning and consider photographing both sides for later verification.
Many high‑value Lincoln pennies are found not by coin collectors but by people checking change. Even small signs like a missing mint mark or a copper color on a 1943 cent can indicate a rare error.
Real-World Example
A local teacher checked a handful of pennies and found a 1955 doubled die in circulated condition. They photographed the coin, posted images to an online coin forum, and then had it authenticated by a grading service.
After authentication, the teacher sold the coin to a collector for a four‑figure sum. The sale paid for a classroom field trip and shows how small checks can have big results.
When to Seek Authentication
If a coin appears valuable, avoid cleaning or polishing. Professional grading services can authenticate and grade a coin, which usually increases market value and buyer confidence.
Short checklist for authentication: clear photos, do not glue or mount the coin, and keep original handling minimal.
Final Tips — Check Your Change
Make a habit of quickly scanning pennies when you get them. Look for unusual color, missing mint marks, clear doubling, and odd shapes or planchets.
Most finds will be common, but knowing these ten rare Lincoln pennies helps you spot the exceptions quickly and act wisely when you find one.