Found in an Old Purse: Rare Lincoln Penny Worth More Than the Handbag

Found in an Old Purse: Rare Lincoln Penny Worth More Than the Handbag Itself — What You Need to Know

Finding an old coin in a handbag is exciting, but not every worn Lincoln penny is valuable. This guide explains how to spot a rare Lincoln cent, what steps to take after a discovery, and how to determine its potential value.

Why some Lincoln pennies are valuable

Value comes from rarity, condition, and historical significance. Certain Lincoln cents were minted in low numbers, show distinct mint errors, or were made of unusual materials.

Collectors also pay premiums for coins with original surfaces and clear design details. A coin tucked away in a purse might have avoided wear, preserving value.

Common high-value Lincoln cent types

• 1909-S VDB — early Lincoln cent with designer initials, often scarce in good grades
• 1909-S — first year of the Lincoln cent with San Francisco mint mark
• 1914-D — low-mintage Denver issue, valuable in higher grades
• 1955 Double Die Obverse — noticeable doubling on the date and inscription
• 1943 Copper — copper planchets mistakenly used in a steel cent year

How to Inspect a Lincoln Penny Found in an Old Purse

Examine the coin carefully before touching it too much. Wear clean gloves or handle by the edge to avoid adding oils or scratches.

Use a magnifier to check the date, mint mark, designer initials (VDB), and any doubling or unusual planchet color. Take several clear photos from both sides for reference.

Step-by-step inspection checklist

• Confirm the date and mint mark (S, D, or none).
• Look for designer initials ‘VDB’ on the reverse (near the rim) for early issues.
• Check for doubling, off-center strikes, or unusual metal color.
• Note the coin’s surface: original luster or heavy wear.

What Not to Do After Finding a Rare Lincoln Penny

Do not clean, polish, or use chemical solutions on the coin. Cleaning can dramatically lower the coin’s grade and resale value.

Avoid filing or attempting to remove corrosion yourself. Even well-intended conservation can be destructive unless done by a professional.

How to Verify and Authenticate Your Find

Start with identification using reputable online resources or coin catalogs. If the coin looks special, seek professional authentication.

Submit the coin to a recognized grading service (PCGS, NGC, or ANACS) for grading and encapsulation. Grading confirms authenticity and often increases buyer confidence.

Authentication options and costs

• Online coin ID forums and reference sites — low cost, useful for preliminary ID
• Local coin dealer or club — modest fee, immediate feedback
• Professional grading services — fee based on declared value and turnaround time

Real-World Example: Case Study

A woman cleaning out her late grandmother’s handbag found a worn 1909 Lincoln cent. She photographed it, avoided cleaning, and took it to a local coin dealer.

The dealer identified it as a noteworthy early Lincoln date and recommended professional grading. After authentication, the coin attracted interest from collectors and sold for a four-figure amount at a private sale.

How to Store, Protect, and Sell a Valuable Lincoln Penny

If you plan to keep the coin, store it in an inert holder (mylar flip or acid-free envelope) with minimal handling. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

To sell, compare options: local coin shops, auctions, online marketplaces, and direct sales to collectors. Authentication helps get a better price and reach serious buyers.

Selling checklist

• Get the coin professionally graded if it appears rare or valuable.
• Gather provenance details: where and when it was found.
• Compare offers and check buyer reputations and fees.
• Consider consignment with a reputable auction house for high-value pieces.

Quick valuation guide

Values vary widely. Common circulated Lincoln pennies are worth face value or modestly more. Rare dates, mint marks, or errors can be worth hundreds to thousands.

Key factors that increase value include scarcity, grade, and distinct errors. Always confirm with a professional before assuming a large value.

Final Practical Tips

• Do not clean the coin — cleaning reduces value.
• Document the find with photos and notes on where it was found.
• Seek multiple opinions from reputable sources before selling.
• Use professional grading for potentially high-value coins.

Discovering a rare Lincoln penny in an old purse can be an unexpectedly valuable find. With careful handling, verification, and the right sale approach, you can protect and potentially unlock significant value from a small coin.