Shivansh VermaImagine stumbling across a penny worth thousands of dollars hidden in your spare change. It might sound like a dream, but several rare Lincoln cents are still in circulation, valued at over $250,000 collectively. These coins are highly sought after by collectors and numismatics due to their rarity, historical significance, and unique errors. This article delves into five such valuable Lincoln cents that could turn your loose change into a jackpot.
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
This coin marks the debut of the Lincoln cent, and its design caused quite a stir. The initials “VDB” (for designer Victor David Brenner) appeared prominently on the coin’s reverse. Some critics found it too conspicuous, leading to the removal of the initials later in the same year. As a result, only 484,000 of these coins were minted with the “S” mintmark, making them exceptionally rare. A well-preserved example can fetch up to $2,000, with pristine versions commanding even higher prices.
What to Look For:
- “S” mintmark beneath the date.
- “VDB” initials at the bottom of the reverse side.
2. 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent
During World War II, copper was essential for war efforts, so Lincoln cents were temporarily made of steel coated with zinc. However, a few 1943 cents were accidentally struck in copper. Only about 20 of these coins are known to exist today, with values soaring to $100,000 or more at auction.
What to Look For:
- A reddish-brown penny dated 1943 (most 1943 pennies are steel and appear silver-colored).
3. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln cent is famous among error coins. A misalignment during the minting process created a dramatic doubling of the text on the obverse side, including the date and the motto “In God We Trust.” This error is so distinct that even worn coins are highly collectible, with values ranging from $1,000 to $15,000.
What to Look For:
- Obvious doubling of text on the obverse side.
- Clear separation in the lettering, not to be confused with machine doubling.
4. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
Another coveted error coin, the 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln cent, exhibits significant doubling on the obverse side, particularly in the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Many of these coins were initially dismissed as counterfeits, making the genuine ones even rarer today. Depending on condition, these coins can fetch between $10,000 and $50,000.
What to Look For:
- “S” mintmark beneath the date.
- Clear doubling in the text on the obverse.
5. 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent
This modern rarity comes from a design variation in the spacing of the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse side. Normally, these letters are spaced apart, but in the 1992 Close AM error, the letters almost touch. A small number of these coins were mistakenly minted and can be worth upwards of $25,000.
What to Look For:
- A 1992 Lincoln cent with a nearly touching “AM” on the reverse side.
Q1: How can I identify these rare Lincoln cents?
Look for distinct features like mintmarks, errors, or unique characteristics mentioned above. Magnifying tools can help spot subtle details.
Q2: Are these pennies still in circulation?
Yes, though rare, these pennies occasionally appear in change or coin rolls, especially from older collections being spent.
Q3: Where can I sell a rare penny?
You can sell rare coins to coin dealers, at auctions, or through online marketplaces like eBay. It’s advisable to get the coin authenticated and graded by a reputable organization like PCGS or NGC.
Q4: What if I find a suspicious penny?
Consult a professional coin dealer or submit the coin for grading. Counterfeits exist, but experts can verify authenticity.
Q5: How do I start collecting rare coins?
Begin by learning about coin grading, collecting tools, and attending local coin shows. Start small and focus on coins that interest you, gradually building your knowledge and collection.
