Penny collecting is a hobby that has been enjoyed by many for decades. While most pennies are worth their face value of one cent, some rare varieties 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.
Table of Contents
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 that is highly sought after by collectors. This penny was struck with a double die error, which means 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, representing the 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 featuring 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 featuring 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 featuring 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 featuring 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 featuring 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 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.
| Penny | Year | Distinguishing Feature | Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Bronze Penny | 1943 | Made of bronze instead of steel | Hundreds to thousands |
| 1955 Double Die Penny | 1955 | Double die error | Hundreds |
| 1909-S VDB Penny | 1909 | “VDB” initials on reverse | Hundreds |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | Made of copper instead of steel | Hundreds of thousands |
| 1992 Close AM Penny | 1992 | Close spacing of “A” and “M” | Hundreds |
| 1972 Double Die Penny | 1972 | Double die error | Hundreds |
| 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Penny | 2004 | Extra leaf on corn ear | Hundreds |
| 1983 Double Die Penny | 1983 | Double die error | Hundreds |
| 1958 Double Die Penny | 1958 | Double die error | Hundreds |
| 1914-D Lincoln Penny | 1914 | Minted in Denver | Hundreds |
In conclusion, 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
What makes a penny rare and valuable?
Rarity, historical significance, and unique minting errors contribute to a penny’s value.
How can I identify a rare penny?
Look for unique features such as double die errors, special mint marks, or design anomalies. A professional appraisal can confirm authenticity.
Where can I sell rare pennies?
You can sell rare pennies at auctions, through coin dealers, or on online marketplaces specializing in numismatics.
How should I store my rare pennies?
Store rare pennies in a cool, dry place in protective cases to prevent damage and maintain their value.
Are there other rare pennies not listed here?
Yes, there are many other rare and valuable pennies. This list highlights some of the most notable varieties.
