Penny collecting has long been a beloved hobby among coin enthusiasts, with some pennies becoming highly valuable due to their rarity, unique characteristics, and historical importance.
Among the many coins minted in the United States, a few stand out as particularly rare and sought-after by collectors.
5 Extremely Rare Pennies Worth $35 Million
In this article, we’ll highlight five such pennies, exploring their fascinating backstories, defining features, and current market value.
1. 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny
One of the most iconic and coveted pennies in American numismatics, the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny was minted to commemorate the centennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth.
This penny is especially popular because of the designer’s initials, Victor David Brenner, inscribed on the reverse.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Material: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: The obverse showcases Lincoln’s portrait, while the reverse displays two wheat stalks.
Value: With a limited mintage of only around 484,000 coins, the 1909-S V.D.B. penny is highly prized In uncirculated condition, it can fetch prices upwards of $1,000, with coins in mint condition reaching $2,000 or more depending on the grading.
2. 1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D Lincoln penny is another gem in the series, known for its low mintage, making it a rare find for collectors.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: D (Denver)
- Material: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Features Lincoln’s portrait on the front and wheat stalks on the reverse.
Value: With only 1.1 million of these pennies minted, the 1914-D is highly desirable Prices can range from $100 for coins in lower grades to over $1,500 for high-grade examples Coins in uncirculated condition are especially valuable.
3. 1922 No D Lincoln Penny
This penny is famous for a rare minting error Although it was intended to have a “D” mint mark (Denver), some of the coins were accidentally struck without it.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: None (meant to have a D)
- Material: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Similar to other Lincoln pennies, featuring his portrait and wheat stalks.
Value: The 1922 No D penny is incredibly rare, with only a handful of them in existence These pennies can fetch anywhere from $300 to over $1,000, depending on condition, with well-preserved coins reaching even higher prices.
4. 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1955 Double Die penny is one of the most famous error coins in the United States Its defining feature is the noticeable doubling of the date and inscriptions on the obverse, making it a highly desirable piece for collectors.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Material: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Lincoln’s portrait is on the obverse, with wheat stalks on the reverse.
Value: Because of the distinctive error, the 1955 Double Die penny is highly sought after Prices typically range from $1,000 in lower grades to over $2,500 for uncirculated specimens.
5. 1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny
Like the 1955 Double Die, the 1969-S Double Die penny features noticeable doubling, particularly in the obverse inscriptions, making it another highly coveted error coin.
Key Features:
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Material: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Design: Similar to other Lincoln pennies, with Lincoln’s portrait and wheat stalks on the reverse.
Value: The 1969-S Double Die penny is rare, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on the coin’s condition Well-maintained examples may command even higher prices.
Factors Influencing the Value of Rare Pennies
Several factors contribute to the value of these rare pennies:
- Condition: The quality of the coin plays a significant role in its price Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher grades reflecting better condition Coins that are in uncirculated or near-mint condition tend to command higher prices.
- Mint Mark: The mint mark indicates the location where the coin was produced Pennies minted in San Francisco (S) or Denver (D) are typically more valuable than those minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark).
- Rarity: Coins that are rarer, such as those with unique errors or limited production runs, tend to be more valuable.
- Market Demand: The demand for particular coins can fluctuate over time, which may influence their market value.
Tips for Collecting Rare Pennies
For those looking to start or expand their penny collection, here are some helpful tips:
- Learn the Basics: Understanding the history, characteristics, and market value of rare pennies is crucial Researching these coins, through books, online resources, and local coin clubs, can give collectors a strong foundation.
- Set a Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend on your collection and aim to start with more affordable coins Gradually increase your investment as you gain more experience.
- Attend Coin Shows: Coin shows are fantastic places to meet other collectors, learn from experts, and find rare pennies.
- Prioritize Quality: It’s better to have a few high-quality coins than many lower-grade ones Well-preserved pennies hold their value better and are more attractive to collectors.
Storing and Preserving Rare Pennies
Proper storage is essential to maintaining the condition of rare pennies Here are some tips:
- Use Protective Holders: Store your pennies in holders such as coin flips or capsules to avoid scratches and air exposure.
- Minimize Handling: Handling coins with bare hands can cause wear and leave fingerprints If you need to touch your pennies, wear cotton gloves.
- Store in a Dry Place: Keep your coins in a cool, dry environment to prevent moisture from causing corrosion.
- Inspect Regularly: Check the condition of your pennies from time to time to ensure they remain in good shape.
The Value of Rare Pennies Beyond Money
For many collectors, rare pennies are more than just valuable coins; they represent pieces of American history Each coin tells a story, reflecting moments in time and the evolution of the U.S. monetary system.
As the demand for collectible coins continues to grow, rare pennies will remain prized possessions for numismatists, with the potential for their value to increase over time.
Conclusion
Rare pennies are timeless collectibles that not only offer monetary value but also provide a connection to the past.
Whether it’s the historic 1909-S V.D.B. or the double die errors of 1955 and 1969, these coins embody American history and numismatic craftsmanship.
As you embark on your journey as a penny collector, these rare coins offer both educational opportunities and the potential for a profitable investment.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a beginner, these rare pennies represent an exciting and rewarding pursuit in the world of coin collecting.