Collecting pennies might seem like a modest hobby, but some rare finds can bring in hundreds or even thousands of dollars. While most pennies are only worth their face value of one cent, certain coins are highly sought after by collectors due to their rarity and historical significance. Here are 10 rare pennies that every collector dreams of owning.
Table of Contents
1943 Bronze Penny
The 1943 Bronze Penny is one of the most famous and valuable pennies ever produced. During World War II, copper was in high demand, so the U.S. Mint switched to making pennies out of steel. However, a small number of bronze pennies were mistakenly minted that year.
These coins are extremely rare, and their value ranges from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on their condition.
| Coin | Mint Year | Material | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Bronze Penny | 1943 | Bronze | $100,000+ |
1955 Penny Double Die
The 1955 Double Die Penny features a prominent minting error where the design appears slightly doubled, making the text and numbers look fuzzy. This mistake is visible to the naked eye and makes the penny a prized possession for collectors.
These coins can sell for thousands of dollars at auction.
| Coin | Mint Year | Error | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1955 Double Die Penny | 1955 | Double Die | $1,000–$10,000+ |
1909-S VDB Penny
The 1909-S VDB Penny was minted in San Francisco and features the initials of designer Victor David Brenner on the reverse. Only a limited number were produced, making this penny a highly sought-after collectible.
| Coin | Mint Year | Mint Mark | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB Penny | 1909 | S | $500–$2,000+ |
1943 Copper Penny
Like the bronze penny, the 1943 Copper Penny was a minting error during WWII, when most pennies were made from steel. A few copper pennies slipped through, and they are now some of the most valuable coins in existence.
These coins have fetched hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.
| Coin | Mint Year | Material | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | Copper | $200,000+ |
1992 Close AM Penny
The 1992 Close AM Penny features a minting error on the reverse, where the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are very close together. The U.S. Mint quickly corrected this mistake, making the Close AM Penny a valuable rarity.
| Coin | Mint Year | Error | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1992 Close AM Penny | 1992 | Close AM | $500–$2,000+ |
1972 Penny Double Die
The 1972 Double Die Penny has a similar error to the 1955 penny, where the design appears doubled, creating a fuzzy effect. Collectors are willing to pay significant sums for this distinctive coin.
| Coin | Mint Year | Error | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1972 Double Die Penny | 1972 | Double Die | $1,000–$5,000+ |
2004-D Extra Leaf Penny
The 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Penny is unique due to an additional leaf on the corn stalk depicted on the reverse. This error was caused by a die anomaly, making it a sought-after collector’s item.
| Coin | Mint Year | Error | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004-D Extra Leaf Penny | 2004 | Extra Leaf | $300–$1,500+ |
1983 Penny Double Die
The 1983 Double Die Penny features a minting error on the obverse, causing the design to appear doubled. These coins are rare and can fetch high prices from collectors.
| Coin | Mint Year | Error | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1983 Double Die Penny | 1983 | Double Die | $500–$3,000+ |
1958 Penny Double Die
The 1958 Double Die Penny is extremely rare, with only a few examples known to exist. This coin’s value can reach incredible heights due to its rarity.
| Coin | Mint Year | Error | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1958 Double Die Penny | 1958 | Double Die | $20,000+ |
1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D Lincoln Penny was minted in Denver in limited quantities, making it a sought-after addition to any collection. Its historical significance adds to its value.
| Coin | Mint Year | Mint Mark | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1914-D Lincoln Penny | 1914 | D | $1,000–$5,000+ |
Conclusion
These rare pennies are more than just coins—they’re pieces of history that have captured the imagination of collectors for decades. If you think you might have one of these treasures, it’s worth having it professionally appraised. Who knows? Your old penny jar might hold a fortune!
FAQs
What is the rarest penny?
The 1943 Bronze Penny and 1943 Copper Penny are among the rarest.
Why is the 1955 Double Die Penny valuable?
It features a visible minting error, making it highly collectible.
How can I identify a Close AM Penny?
Check if the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are close together.
What is the value of a 1914-D Lincoln Penny?
It can be worth between $1,000 and $5,000.
How do I get my penny appraised?
Use a professional service like PCGS or NGC for grading.
