Lincoln pennies are a significant aspect of the history of American currency, beginning in 1909 when they were launched to commemorate 100 years of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth anniversary. Although most of these coins are ordinary, certain less common varieties of pennies have proven to be incredibly valuable to collectors, and sell for astounding sums at auction.
Here we explain the top 10 most valuable Lincoln pennies, their characteristics and estimated value:
1. 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint started producing pennies out of zinc-coated steel to save copper, which was required to be used during the war. However, in 1943, a few pennies were inadvertently produced with copper. The coins are rare and highly sought after by collectors, and a few of them can fetch anything between $186,000 and $372,000, based on the state of the coin.
2. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
This coin has a strong doubling effect on the front side, specifically in the terms “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Less than 50 pieces of this kind of coin have been made and have gone on sale for as high as $126,500.
3. 1922 “Plain” No D Lincoln Cent
All the Lincoln cents minted in Denver during 1922 were to bear a “D” mint mark. But some of the coins lacked this mark, which are referred to as “Plain” cents. These coins range in value from $329 to $57,500, depending on their condition.
4. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
This coin has a heavy doubling on the front side, making the date and words appear blurry. This coin is extremely popular among collectors and can cost anywhere from $1,645 to $32,400.
5. 1877 Indian Head Cent
Though not a Lincoln penny, the 1877 Indian Head Cent is highly sought after because it has such a low mintage. These coins in good condition can cost anywhere from $220 to $21,150.
6. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
his was produced in Denver and is scarce, particularly in the higher grades. Collectors pay between $74 and $16,100 for these coins in good condition.
7. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
This coin bears designer Victor David Brenner’s (VDB) initials on the back, and was struck in San Francisco. Its mintage total was only 484,000, so it’s a significant year for collectors. It can be worth anywhere from $499 to $10,000.
8. 1992-D Close A.M. Lincoln Cent
This coin demonstrates a very close overlap between the “A” and “M” in the word “AMERICA.” There are only a few specimens that exist and auction prices can be between $990 and $3,525.
9. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
This coin demonstrates doubling on the front of the coin. This error coin can sell for as much as $700 in high grades.
10. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Cent
This coin features doubling on the back, particularly in the phrase “ONE CENT” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” This coin can sell for up to $400 in high grades.
The Value of Lincoln Pennies
Lincoln pennies, both common and rare, are a significant part of American coin history. Some coins have become very valuable to collectors, and sell for enormous amounts at auction. If you possess one of these rare coins, you could have just made a fortune!
Top 10 Most Valuable Lincoln Pennies
| Year | Mint Mark | Description | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 | None | Copper Composition | $186,000 – $372,000 |
| 1969 | S | Doubled Die Obverse | $41,125 – $126,500 |
| 1922 | None | No “D” Mint Mark (“Plain”) | $329 – $57,500 |
| 1955 | None | Doubled Die Obverse | $1,645 – $32,400 |
| 1877 | None | Indian Head Cent | $220 – $21,150 |
| 1914 | D | Low Mintage | $74 – $16,100 |
| 1909 | S | VDB Initials on Reverse | $499 – $10,000 |
| 1992 | D | Close AM in “AMERICA” | $990 – $3,525 |
| 1972 | None | Doubled Die Obverse | Up to $700 |
| 1983 | None | Doubled Die Reverse | Around $400 |
The rarity of these coins and their historicity attract collectors, and if you have one of these coins, it can be a great asset.
FAQs
Q: What is the most valuable Lincoln penny?
A: The 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny, worth between $186,000 and $372,000 depending on its condition.
Q: How much is the 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent worth?
A: It can fetch anywhere from $41,125 to $126,500 at auction, depending on its grade.
Q: Why is the 1922 Plain Lincoln Cent rare?
A: It lacks the “D” mint mark, making it a rare and highly sought-after coin.
Q: What makes the 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent valuable?
A: The doubling effect on the date and inscriptions makes it a favorite among collectors.
Q: Is the 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Cent worth anything?
A: Yes, it can be worth around $400 if in good condition.