4 Rare Pennies That Could Be Hiding in Your Pocket

Many people overlook the potential value of the pennies in their pockets. Some rare pennies in circulation can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. This guide will help you identify the four most valuable pennies you might find in your change.

Why Some Pennies Are Worth More

The world of coin collecting is a fascinating one, with certain pennies becoming rare and valuable due to a combination of factors. It’s not just about age; several elements can make a penny worth more than its face value. These include the mint year, any errors that occurred during the minting process, and the coin’s historical significance. Coin collecting can be an interesting hobby that turns your spare change into a potential treasure.

Discover top offers for rare penny collectors and enthusiasts.

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is a key coin in the Lincoln cent series. The ’S’ indicates it was minted in San Francisco, and ‘VDB’ are the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner. What makes this penny valuable is its low mintage and the fact that the VDB initials were removed from subsequent coins. To spot one in circulation, look for the ’S’ mint mark under the date and the ‘VDB’ at the bottom of the reverse side. Its rarity and historical context make it a prized find for collectors.

The 1943 Copper Penny

The 1943 Copper Penny is another highly sought-after coin. During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to using steel for pennies to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few copper planchets accidentally made their way into the minting process, resulting in the 1943 Copper Penny. These pennies are very rare and valuable. To identify one, check if a 1943 penny is copper in color; a magnet will not stick to it. Be aware of counterfeits, and consult a professional if you think you’ve found one.

The 1955 Doubled Die Penny

The 1955 Doubled Die Penny is a well-known error coin. It occurred when the die used to strike the coins had a doubled image, resulting in a noticeable doubling of the letters and numbers, especially in ‘LIBERTY’ and the date. The coin’s value depends on its condition, with uncirculated examples fetching the highest prices. To examine a coin for authenticity, look for the distinct doubling under magnification. Due to its visibility and popularity, the 1955 Doubled Die Penny remains a favorite among collectors.

The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Penny

The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Penny is another error coin that collectors seek out. This error is characterized by a doubling of the obverse (front) of the coin, most prominently seen in the words ‘LIBERTY’ and ‘IN GOD WE TRUST’. The doubling is caused by a misalignment during the die-making process. To verify if a penny matches this rare type, carefully examine the obverse for the distinct doubling effect. Collectors should be aware that there are different varieties of the 1972 doubled die, so professional appraisal can be valuable.

Tips for Coin Collectors and Next Steps

Identifying valuable pennies involves looking for specific dates, mint marks, and errors. For beginners interested in coin collecting, start by examining your pocket change and familiarizing yourself with different coin types and their characteristics. If you believe you have found a rare coin, get it appraised by a reputable coin dealer or numismatist. To preserve the value of your coins, handle them carefully and store them in protective holders or albums. Coin collecting can be a rewarding hobby that combines history, art, and the thrill of the hunt.