Pennies might seem like small change, but in the world of coin collecting, some are incredibly valuable. While most pennies are worth just one cent, a few rare ones can be worth a lot of money. This article explores three of these ultra-rare pennies that collectors dream of owning.
The 1943 Copper Penny
One of the most famous rare pennies is the 1943 Copper Penny. During World War II, there was a shortage of copper, so the U.S. Mint started making pennies from zinc-coated steel instead. However, a few copper blanks from 1942 were accidentally used to make 1943 pennies.
These copper pennies are extremely rare because most were destroyed. Finding one is a collector’s dream, and they can sell for over a hundred thousand dollars! Their rarity and historical value make them highly sought after.
The 1909-S VDB Penny
Another prized penny is the 1909-S VDB. When the Lincoln Cent was first introduced in 1909 to celebrate Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, the initial design included the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner, on the back of the coin.
However, due to complaints about the prominence of the initials, they were removed from later coins.
Only the 1909-S VDB pennies from the San Francisco Mint have these initials. Although over a million were made, their limited issue makes them very valuable. A well-preserved 1909-S VDB penny can sell for tens of thousands of dollars.
The 1955 Doubled Die Penny
The 1955 Doubled Die Penny is another rare find. This error happened at the Philadelphia Mint when a die clash caused the design to be struck twice, resulting in noticeable doubling of the date and the word “LIBERTY.”
Many of these error pennies were quickly removed from circulation, but some remain. Collectors highly value these coins, and they can be worth tens of thousands of dollars, especially if they are in excellent condition.
Rare pennies like the 1943 Copper Penny, the 1909-S VDB Penny, and the 1955 Doubled Die Penny are more than just old coins—they are pieces of history.
Their unique characteristics and stories make them treasures in the world of coin collecting. If you find one of these rare pennies, you could have a valuable collector’s item worth a significant amount of money.
1. What makes the 1943 Copper Penny so valuable?
The 1943 Copper Penny is valuable because it was made from copper by mistake when most pennies were made from zinc-coated steel due to a copper shortage.
2. Why is the 1909-S VDB Penny considered rare?
The 1909-S VDB Penny is rare because it features the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner, which were removed from later coins due to complaints.
3. What caused the error on the 1955 Doubled Die Penny?
The 1955 Doubled Die Penny error was caused by a die clash, resulting in doubling of the date and the word “LIBERTY” on the coin.
4. How much can a 1943 Copper Penny sell for?
A 1943 Copper Penny can sell for over a hundred thousand dollars, depending on its condition.
5. Are there many 1955 Doubled Die Pennies left?
Although many were removed from circulation, some 1955 Doubled Die Pennies remain and are highly valued by collectors.
I got 1951D penny
So do it tell what your coins are worth
I was going through my coin , and I have come across a 1972 DD penny, the date , liberty,and In God We Trust have double on some of the letters.
This coin came out of a mint bag.I have had this coin since 1990.
I would like to know how much it is worth. I know it is rare
I got 1975 u.s. dime. No s
Nice….
I have a 1955 wheat penny and it is definitely a double die . How do you get them graded and how much is it
I have most of this penny but I’m in Nigeria so how do I sell them.
Hello Daniel Ikechi,
We will help you.
There is nothing rare about a coin that were made to the mintage of 484,000. Scarce perhaps, but immensely popular. The scarcity of the 1909-S V.D.B. cent is in reflection to the millions of other cents struck from 1909 to say 1927 and onwards.
I have a 1949 D penny
I have a 1909 penny VDB
You hit a small lottery with this one.
Have a 1943 copper one cent 3.1g non magnetic..I would sell but trying has been quite the challenge…help would be appreciated.
Nice….