Lincoln cents, also known as wheat pennies, have been a beloved part of American coinage since their introduction in 1909. With unique designs and intriguing histories, these pennies can hold significant value. For collectors, finding rare Lincoln cents is both a rewarding and profitable venture.
Here’s a look at ten valuable Lincoln cents every collector should know about and why they’re worth pursuing.
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB penny is famous among collectors as the first year Lincoln cent with the initials of its designer, Victor David Brenner, displayed on the reverse. Only a limited number were minted, making it highly sought after. Its rarity and significance as the first Lincoln cent design contribute to its high value.
2. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
This Denver-minted penny is another prized coin among collectors. Due to a low mintage and its scarcity in high-grade conditions, the 1914-D is considered one of the rarest wheat pennies, especially when found in pristine condition. Collectors value it for its rarity and historical context.
3. 1922 No D Lincoln Cent
The 1922 No D penny is a variety of the 1922 Lincoln cent that lacks the Denver mintmark. This coin resulted from a die pair error, making it a rare and valuable variety. Its uniqueness adds to its desirability, making it a must-have for Lincoln cent enthusiasts.
4. 1931-S Lincoln Cent
The 1931-S Lincoln cent had a very limited mintage, resulting in a coin that is still valuable today. With only 866,000 coins produced, it’s a rare find, especially in higher grades, and is one of the more affordable rare pennies on this list when found in lower conditions.
5. 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent
The 1943 Copper penny is one of the most famous error coins. While most pennies minted in 1943 were made of steel due to copper shortages during World War II, a small number were struck in copper by mistake. These rare copper coins are highly valuable, with some fetching hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.
6. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
Known for its noticeable doubling on the obverse, the 1955 Doubled Die penny is another iconic Lincoln cent. The doubling is particularly clear on the date, making this error easily recognizable and highly valued by collectors for its unique appearance.
7. 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The 1969-S Doubled Die is another error penny, marked by dramatic doubling on the obverse, including the word “Liberty” and the date. With only a few examples known, this coin is one of the most valuable modern Lincoln cents and is sought after by both error collectors and Lincoln cent specialists.
8. 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The 1972 Doubled Die penny is a favorite among collectors due to its dramatic doubling on the obverse. It is relatively more common than other error coins, but high-grade examples can still fetch a significant price. The unique doubling makes it easily recognizable and desirable.
9. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Cent
Unlike most doubled die errors that appear on the obverse, the 1983 Doubled Die has a doubled reverse, making it unique. It shows noticeable doubling on the words “United States of America.” This coin has become popular among collectors of modern error coins due to its distinctiveness.
10. 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent
The 1992 Close AM is an error where the letters “A” and “M” in “America” on the reverse are closer together than on standard coins. This subtle difference is rare and can go unnoticed, but it has made the 1992 Close AM penny highly valuable, especially in mint condition.
| Coin Name | Year | Mintmark | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent | 1909 | S | $750-$1,500 |
| 1914-D Lincoln Cent | 1914 | D | $200-$3,000 |
| 1922 No D Lincoln Cent | 1922 | No Mint | $1,000-$15,000 |
| 1931-S Lincoln Cent | 1931 | S | $100-$500 |
| 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent | 1943 | No Mint | $100,000-$250,000 |
| 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | 1955 | No Mint | $1,000-$5,000 |
| 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent | 1992 | No Mint | $3,000-$10,000 |
Collecting Lincoln cents can be both fascinating and rewarding, offering a blend of historical significance and financial investment potential. Each of these coins has its unique place in the numismatic world, and finding one can be an exciting milestone for any collector. Whether discovered through auctions, coin shows, or inherited collections, these rare Lincoln cents are valuable additions to any collection.
FAQs
What makes Lincoln cents valuable?
Lincoln cents become valuable due to factors like limited mintage, historical errors, or unique design variations that increase demand among collectors.
Where can I find rare Lincoln cents?
You may find rare Lincoln cents at auctions, coin dealers, estate sales, and sometimes in inherited collections. Regularly checking coin shows and conventions can also help.
Are Lincoln cent errors worth more?
Yes, error coins such as doubled dies or coins without mintmarks often have higher values due to their rarity and appeal to collectors.
What’s the most expensive Lincoln cent?
One of the most expensive is the 1943 Copper penny, as most pennies that year were made of steel. A genuine 1943 Copper penny can sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
How do I know if my penny is valuable?
To determine a penny’s value, consider its year, mintmark, and condition. Checking with a professional appraiser or a reputable coin guide can also provide insight into its worth.