Penny collecting is a hobby enjoyed by many for decades. While most pennies are worth their face value of one cent, there are some rare varieties that can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars to collectors. In this article, we will look into 10 rare penny varieties that are highly sought after by coin enthusiasts.
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1943 Bronze Penny
The 1943 bronze penny is perhaps one of the most famous and valuable pennies in existence. During World War II, copper was needed for the war effort, so the U.S. Mint switched to making pennies out of steel. However, a few bronze pennies were mistakenly minted that year, making them extremely rare and valuable. A 1943 bronze penny can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
1955 Double Die Penny
The 1955 double die penny is another rare variety highly sought after by collectors. This penny was struck with a double die error, meaning the design was stamped onto the coin twice, creating a slightly blurry effect. This error is easily visible to the naked eye, making it a valuable find for collectors. A 1955 double die penny can be worth hundreds of dollars.
1909-S VDB Penny
The 1909-S VDB penny is a rare variety minted in San Francisco. It features the initials “VDB” on the reverse side of the coin, which are the initials of the coin’s designer, Victor David Brenner. This penny is highly sought after by collectors due to its low mintage and historical significance. A 1909-S VDB penny can be worth hundreds of dollars.
1943 Copper Penny
Similar to the 1943 bronze penny, the 1943 copper penny is a rare variety mistakenly minted during World War II. Most pennies from 1943 are made of steel, but a few copper pennies were accidentally produced. These copper pennies are incredibly valuable, with some selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.
1992 Close AM Penny
The 1992 close AM penny is a rare variety that features close spacing between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse side of the coin. This error was quickly corrected by the U.S. Mint, making the 1992 close AM penny a valuable find for collectors. A 1992 close AM penny can be worth hundreds of dollars.
1972 Double Die Penny
The 1972 double die penny is a rare variety that features a double die error similar to the 1955 double die penny. This error creates a blurry effect on the coin’s design, making it easily recognizable to collectors. A 1972 double die penny can be worth hundreds of dollars.
2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Penny
The 2004-D Wisconsin extra leaf penny is a rare variety that features an extra leaf on the ear of corn on the reverse side of the coin. This error was caused by a die variety, making it a valuable find for collectors. A 2004-D Wisconsin extra leaf penny can be worth hundreds of dollars.
1983 Double Die Penny
The 1983 double die penny is a rare variety that features a double die error on the obverse side of the coin. This error creates a slightly blurred effect on the coin’s design, making it a valuable find for collectors. A 1983 double die penny can be worth hundreds of dollars.
1958 Double Die Penny
The 1958 double die penny is a rare variety that features a double die error on the obverse side of the coin. This error creates a slightly blurred effect on the coin’s design, making it highly sought after by collectors. A 1958 double die penny can be worth hundreds of dollars.
1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D Lincoln penny is a rare variety that was minted in Denver. This penny is highly sought after by collectors due to its low mintage and historical significance. A 1914-D Lincoln penny can be worth hundreds of dollars.
| Coin | Year | Mintage Quantity | Unique Feature | Auction Record Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Bronze Penny | 1943 | Very limited | Minted in bronze during WWII | $100,000+ |
| 1955 Double Die Penny | 1955 | Limited | Double die error | $1,000+ |
| 1909-S VDB Penny | 1909 | 484,000 | “VDB” initials on reverse | $1,500+ |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | Very limited | Minted in copper during WWII | $200,000+ |
| 1992 Close AM Penny | 1992 | Limited | Close “AM” in “AMERICA” | $500+ |
| 1972 Double Die Penny | 1972 | Limited | Double die error | $300+ |
| 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Penny | 2004 | Limited | Extra leaf on corn | $250+ |
| 1983 Double Die Penny | 1983 | Limited | Double die error | $200+ |
| 1958 Double Die Penny | 1958 | Limited | Double die error | $1,500+ |
| 1914-D Lincoln Penny | 1914 | 1,193,000 | Low mintage | $150+ |
These 10 rare penny varieties are a coin collector’s dream. From the famous 1943 bronze penny to the lesser-known 2004-D Wisconsin extra leaf penny, each of these varieties is highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity and historical significance. So next time you come across a penny in your pocket change, be sure to take a closer look – you never know, it could be worth hundreds of dollars!
FAQs
How can I determine if my penny is valuable?
Consult a professional coin appraiser or numismatist who can evaluate your coin’s rarity and value.
What factors make a penny valuable?
Factors include rarity, historical significance, mint errors, and the coin’s condition.
Where can I sell my rare penny?
Rare pennies can be sold at auctions, coin shows, or through reputable coin dealers.
Are modern pennies worth collecting?
Yes, especially those with mint errors or unique features.
How do I start a penny collection?
Start by searching through your pocket change, visiting coin shows, and purchasing from reputable dealers.