For most of us, pennies are pocket change. But for collectors and numismatists, some pennies are worth more than gold—literally. The U.S. Mint has produced billions of pennies since 1793, but only a handful have become legendary for their rarity, historical significance, or minting errors. These elusive coins can fetch thousands—or even millions—at auction. Here are 13 of the rarest and most valuable pennies ever minted in the United States.
1. 1943 Copper Penny
The 1943 Copper Penny is the holy grail of U.S. coin collecting. During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to steel pennies to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few copper planchets mistakenly made it into the presses. Only around 20 are known to exist. Because of their rarity and mystery, these coins have fetched as much as $1.7 million at auction. If you ever find a 1943 penny that doesn’t stick to a magnet, you might just be holding a fortune.
2. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB penny was the first year of the Lincoln cent, and only 484,000 were minted in San Francisco with the designer’s initials, V.D.B. (Victor David Brenner), prominently on the reverse. After public backlash over the visible initials, the Mint removed them from subsequent coins. Its combination of low mintage, historical significance, and unique design makes it a prized collectible. In top condition, it can be worth over $100,000.
3. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
One of the most famous error coins, the 1955 Doubled Die shows extreme doubling on the obverse—especially on the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” It’s a striking and obvious error, caused by a misalignment during the minting process. Even circulated versions can fetch thousands of dollars. Sharp-eyed collectors are always on the hunt for this iconic mistake.
4. 1877 Indian Head Cent
The 1877 Indian Head Penny is the key date of the series and one of the scarcest pennies in U.S. history. Only about 850,000 were minted, and even fewer survive in decent condition today. This penny’s rarity is compounded by its historical timing—minted during the economic depression of the late 1870s. In high grades, this coin can command prices upwards of $7,000 or more.
5. 1922 No D Lincoln Cent
The 1922 penny was only produced in Denver, yet some coins appear without the “D” mintmark due to a heavily worn die. These “No D” varieties are incredibly rare and highly sought after. Collectors value them not just for rarity, but also as a fascinating example of minting history. Uncirculated examples can bring in tens of thousands at auction.
6. 1944 Steel Penny
Just like the 1943 Copper Penny, the 1944 Steel Cent is a rare error. By 1944, the U.S. Mint had returned to copper, but some leftover steel planchets from the previous year were used by mistake. Only a few specimens have surfaced, making them extremely valuable. In 2021, one example sold for over $375,000.
7. 1909-S Indian Head Penny
This penny marks the end of the Indian Head series and was minted in very small numbers—only 309,000. It’s often overshadowed by the Lincoln series that followed, but serious collectors know its worth. A 1909-S Indian Head Cent in top condition can easily sell for over $5,000, making it one of the rarest Indian Heads to own.
8. 1856 Flying Eagle Cent
Technically a pattern coin rather than a circulation issue, the 1856 Flying Eagle Cent was the prototype for a new, smaller cent. Only about 2,000 were made and distributed to congressmen and VIPs. Today, these coins are considered extremely collectible. If authenticated, an 1856 Flying Eagle can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to over $25,000.
9. 1864 Indian Head Cent with “L” on Ribbon
In late 1864, the U.S. Mint modified the Indian Head penny design by adding an “L” to the ribbon on the Native American’s headdress (for designer James B. Longacre). This subtle change created two varieties in the same year. The version with the “L” is far rarer, and in uncirculated condition, it can be worth thousands.
10. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Penny
This penny features noticeable doubling on the obverse side, especially in the inscriptions and date. It’s less famous than the 1955 version but still highly valuable to collectors. High-grade examples can fetch several thousand dollars. It’s a favorite among collectors who love the hunt for hidden treasure in everyday change.
11. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
Unlike other doubled dies, this 1983 Lincoln cent features strong doubling on the reverse, most notably in the words “ONE CENT” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” Because it’s a more recent error, many examples have been found in great condition. Still, its rarity and eye-catching error make it highly sought after, with values reaching into the thousands.
12. 1992 Close AM Penny
In 1992, a rare variety of the Lincoln Memorial penny was accidentally struck using a proof reverse die, resulting in the “AM” in “AMERICA” being very close together. Normally, there’s a noticeable gap. Only a few of these “Close AM” pennies have been found, and in top grades, they’re worth $5,000 or more.
13. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny
This penny is one of the rarest doubled die varieties, with only a handful confirmed. The doubling is dramatic and similar to the 1955 version. Because of its low population and striking visual impact, it’s one of the most valuable modern Lincoln cents. One specimen in mint condition sold for over $35,000.
FAQs
Q1: How can I tell if I have a rare penny?
Look for minting errors, specific dates, and mintmarks. Tools like a magnifying glass and a coin reference guide can help, but professional grading and authentication is recommended for valuable coins.
Q2: What is the most valuable penny ever sold?
The 1943 Copper Penny holds the record, with one specimen selling for over $1.7 million at auction.
Q3: Are wheat pennies worth anything?
Yes, especially those from the early years (1909–1930s) or with rare mintmarks like the 1909-S VDB or 1922 No D.
Q4: Can I find valuable pennies in circulation today?
It’s rare, but not impossible. Some errors like the 1992 Close AM or 1983 Doubled Die Reverse have been discovered in change.
Conclusion
These 13 pennies aren’t just old coins—they’re windows into American history, symbols of minting artistry, and rare treasures that could be hiding in a pocket, drawer, or coin jar. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, it pays to know which pennies might be worth a second look. Who knows? Your next lucky penny might be worth a small fortune.