Lincoln pennies have been a key part of American coinage since 1909. While most of these pennies are worth just their face value, some rare and valuable ones can be worth a lot of money. This article will take you through the top 15 most valuable Lincoln pennies, providing useful details and figures to help collectors spot these prized coins.
1. 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny is one of the most famous and sought-after pennies. Minted in San Francisco in limited numbers, it features the “V.D.B.” initials of engraver Victor David Brenner on the reverse. Due to public demand, these initials were later removed. Coins in mint condition can sell for over $100,000.
2. 1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D Lincoln penny is another highly collectible coin. Produced in Denver with a limited mintage, this penny’s value ranges from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on its condition and grade.
3. 1922 Plain Lincoln Penny
The 1922 Plain Lincoln penny is notable for its error—the absence of the “D” mintmark on the coin. This rare mistake makes it highly collectible, with values ranging from $1,500 to over $20,000 for high-quality specimens.
4. 1931-S Lincoln Penny
With its low mintage, the 1931-S Lincoln penny is a favorite among collectors. Coins in excellent condition can be worth between $1,000 and $5,000, with the value increasing based on the coin’s grade.
5. 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
The 1943 Copper Lincoln penny is famous for its error. During WWII, pennies were supposed to be made of steel, but a few copper blanks were mistakenly used. This rare error coin can fetch over $100,000.
6. 1944 Steel Lincoln Penny
The 1944 Steel Lincoln penny is another rare error coin. After WWII, steel pennies were not meant to be produced, but some were accidentally minted. These coins can be worth between $50,000 and $100,000, depending on their condition.
7. 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny
Known for its distinctive doubling of the date and lettering, the 1955 Double Die Lincoln penny is highly sought after. Prices range from $1,000 to over $10,000 based on its condition.
8. 1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1969-S Double Die Lincoln penny features subtle doubling on the obverse. High-quality specimens can sell for between $20,000 and $100,000, depending on their grade.
9. 1970-S Lincoln Penny
Not as famous as some other error coins, the 1970-S Lincoln penny is still sought after due to its low mintage. Prices range from $50 to $500, depending on its condition.
10. 1983 Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1983 Double Die Lincoln penny has less pronounced doubling compared to other error coins but is still prized by collectors. Values range from $100 to $500.
11. 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Lincoln Penny
The 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Lincoln penny is famous for having an extra leaf on the reverse. This error coin can be worth between $100 and $500, depending on its quality.
12. 2009-S Lincoln Penny (Proof)
Released as part of a special proof set to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Lincoln penny, the 2009-S Lincoln penny is valued for its limited mintage, with prices ranging from $50 to $150.
13. 2009-D Lincoln Penny (Low Mintage)
The 2009-D Lincoln penny, produced in Denver, had a lower mintage than other years, making it desirable to collectors. Values range from $10 to $100, based on its condition.
14. 2015-P Lincoln Penny (Motto Error)
The 2015-P Lincoln penny is notable for missing the “In God We Trust” motto on some coins. This error makes the penny worth between $50 and $200.
15. 2019-W Lincoln Penny
Minted in limited numbers at the West Point mint to mark the 113th anniversary of the Lincoln penny, the 2019-W Lincoln penny is valued for its limited availability, with prices ranging from $50 to $200.
Lincoln pennies offer an intriguing look into American numismatics. From the legendary 1909-S V.D.B. to the modern error coins like the 2019-W, these pennies can be both fascinating and valuable. Knowing the details and values of these coins can enhance any collection and offer valuable insights into the world of coin collecting.
1. What makes the 1909-S V.D.B. penny so valuable?
The 1909-S V.D.B. penny is rare because it was minted in limited quantities and features the engraver’s initials, which were later removed.
2. Why is the 1943 Copper Lincoln penny so special?
The 1943 Copper Lincoln penny is rare because it was mistakenly struck on copper blanks instead of the steel used during WWII.
3. What is the significance of the 1922 Plain Lincoln penny?
The 1922 Plain Lincoln penny is significant because it lacks the “D” mintmark, making it a rare and highly collectible error coin.
4. How can I find out the value of my Lincoln pennies?
To determine the value of your Lincoln pennies, check their condition, rarity, and any errors they might have. Consulting a coin expert or using a coin valuation guide can also help.
5. How can I tell if my 1955 Lincoln penny is a Double Die?
Look for doubling in the date and lettering on the front of the 1955 Lincoln penny. The doubling should be noticeable to the naked eye.
