Since their introduction in 1909 to celebrate President Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, Lincoln Cents have become a cornerstone of U.S. coin collecting. Their unique designs, historical significance, and rare errors have captivated numismatists for over a century. Let’s look into ten of the most valuable Lincoln Cents and why they are so highly prized.
1909-S VDB
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is arguably the most iconic penny in U.S. history. It was part of the first batch of Lincoln Cents and included the initials “VDB” of its designer, Victor David Brenner, on the reverse. With only 484,000 minted, it’s a cornerstone of any serious collection. High-grade examples can fetch between $700 and $1,200.
1914-D
Produced at the Denver Mint, the 1914-D Lincoln Cent is renowned for its low mintage, with fewer than 1.2 million coins struck. Its scarcity, especially in good condition, makes it a valuable piece, often selling for $1,500 to $5,000 in high grades.
1922 No D
The 1922 No D Lincoln Cent is a fascinating error coin. Struck at the Denver Mint, it was supposed to bear a “D” mintmark, but due to a die error, some coins were produced without it. This rare mistake makes it highly sought after, with values ranging from $500 to $3,000.
1931-S
With a mintage of just 866,000, the 1931-S Lincoln Cent is one of the lowest mintage coins in the series. Though not as expensive as other rarities, it remains a favorite among collectors. In excellent condition, it can fetch between $100 and $300.
1943 Bronze
During World War II, pennies were made of steel to save copper for the war effort. However, a few bronze planchets from 1942 were mistakenly used in 1943, creating one of the most famous error coins. These rare pennies are worth between $100,000 and $250,000.
1944 Steel
In 1944, the Mint resumed using copper for pennies, but a few leftover steel planchets were accidentally used. These 1944 Steel Cents are extremely rare and valuable, with high-grade examples commanding between $75,000 and $110,000.
1955 Doubled Die
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent features an obvious doubling of the obverse inscriptions, including the date and “LIBERTY.” This striking error makes it a popular piece among collectors, with values ranging from $1,500 to $12,000 depending on condition.
1969-S Doubled Die
Similar to the 1955 version, the 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent shows noticeable doubling on the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” It’s one of the most valuable Lincoln Cents, often fetching $35,000 to $75,000 in top condition.
1972 Doubled Die
The 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is known for its clear doubling on the obverse, particularly in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Although not as rare as some other errors, it’s still a favorite among collectors, with values ranging from $200 to $500.
1992 Close AM
The 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent is a modern rarity. Unlike most 1992 pennies, where the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are spaced apart, this version features the letters close together. It’s a subtle but significant variation, valued at $1,000 to $3,000.
| Coin Name | Year | Mint Mark | Error Type | Value (High Grade) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | 1909 | S | Low mintage | $700–$1,200 |
| 1914-D | 1914 | D | Limited mintage | $1,500–$5,000 |
| 1922 No D | 1922 | None | Missing mintmark | $500–$3,000 |
| 1931-S | 1931 | S | Low mintage | $100–$300 |
| 1943 Bronze | 1943 | Various | Struck on bronze | $100,000–$250,000 |
| 1944 Steel | 1944 | Various | Struck on steel | $75,000–$110,000 |
| 1955 Doubled Die | 1955 | None | Doubling error | $1,500–$12,000 |
| 1969-S Doubled Die | 1969 | S | Doubling error | $35,000–$75,000 |
| 1972 Doubled Die | 1972 | None | Doubling error | $200–$500 |
| 1992 Close AM | 1992 | None | Close AM variety | $1,000–$3,000 |
Lincoln Cents have fascinated collectors for decades. Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or just starting, hunting for these rare pennies can be an exciting journey. Not only do they hold significant value, but each coin also tells a unique story from American history.
FAQs
Why is the 1909-S VDB penny valuable?
Its low mintage and historical significance make it highly sought after.
What makes the 1943 Bronze penny rare?
It was mistakenly struck on bronze planchets instead of steel.
How can I identify a 1955 Doubled Die penny?
Look for clear doubling on the date and lettering on the obverse.
What is unique about the 1992 Close AM penny?
The ‘A’ and ‘M’ in ‘AMERICA’ on the reverse are closely spaced.
Where can I sell rare Lincoln Cents?
You can sell them to coin dealers, at auctions, or on online marketplaces.
