Pennies might seem like small change, but some of them are worth a fortune! While their face value is just one cent, certain rare pennies have fetched astonishing prices at auctions.
These coins often have unique histories, errors, or are in exceptional condition, making them valuable treasures for collectors. In this article, we’ll explore the top 13 most expensive pennies ever sold at auction and uncover the fascinating stories behind their impressive values.
The 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Cent – $1.7 Million
One of the most famous error coins in history is the 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Cent. During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to using zinc-coated steel for pennies to save copper for the war effort.
However, a few bronze blanks were accidentally used in 1943. The 1943-D, minted in Denver, is extremely rare, with only one known example. This rare penny sold for a record-breaking $1.7 million at auction in 2010.
The 1943-S Lincoln Bronze Cent – $1 Million
Similar to its Denver counterpart, the 1943-S Lincoln Bronze Cent was also an accidental creation. Minted in San Francisco, this penny is one of the few 1943 bronze pennies in existence. In 2012, one of these rare coins sold for $1 million, showcasing the high demand and value of these error coins among collectors.
The 1792 Birch Cent – $2.58 Million
The 1792 Birch Cent is not just a penny; it’s a piece of American history. Designed by Robert Birch, it’s one of the earliest prototypes of the U.S. cent. Only a few were ever made, making them incredibly rare.
In 2015, one of these historic coins sold for $2.58 million at auction. Its historical significance and rarity make it highly coveted among collectors.
The 1944-S Steel Lincoln Penny – $373,750
The 1944-S Steel Lincoln Penny is another rare error coin that holds significant value. In 1944, the U.S. Mint switched back to copper for pennies, but a few steel blanks from the previous year were mistakenly used. The 1944-S, minted in San Francisco, is one of the rarest steel pennies. In 2008, one of these rare pennies sold for $373,750 at auction.
The 1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny – $258,500
The 1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny marks the first year the Lincoln Cent was issued. This penny features the initials “VDB” of its designer, Victor David Brenner. Only a few dozen of these coins exist, making them highly sought after by collectors. In 2014, one sold for $258,500 at auction.
The 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny – $336,000
The 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny is an error coin with a unique feature: the doubling of the date and lettering on the front side of the coin. Only three examples of this penny are known to exist. In 2018, one of these rare pennies sold for $336,000 at auction.
The 1943 Lincoln Cent Struck on Bronze Planchet – $840,000
Another 1943 bronze penny, this one without a mint mark, has also fetched a high price. In 2013, a 1943 Lincoln Cent struck on a bronze planchet sold for $840,000. The rarity and the story behind these error coins make them highly valuable.
The 1793 Chain Cent – $2.35 Million
The 1793 Chain Cent was the first penny issued by the U.S. Mint. It features a chain design on the back, which was controversial and quickly changed. This rarity makes the Chain Cent highly valuable. In 2011, a 1793 Chain Cent sold for $2.35 million at auction.
The 1914-D Lincoln Penny – $152,750
The 1914-D Lincoln Penny is a key date for collectors. Minted in Denver, this penny is one of the lowest mintage issues in the Lincoln Cent series. In 2017, a 1914-D penny in excellent condition sold for $152,750 at auction.
The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent – $172,500
The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent represents a transition from large cents to the smaller size used today. Only about 2,000 of these coins were minted. In 2004, one sold for $172,500 at auction, making it highly sought after due to its low mintage and historical significance.
The 1922 No D Plain Lincoln Penny – $74,750
The 1922 No D Plain Lincoln Penny is another notable error coin. Some 1922 pennies were struck without the “D” mint mark due to die wear at the Denver Mint. In 2008, one of these rare coins sold for $74,750 at auction.
The 1877 Indian Head Penny – $149,500
The 1877 Indian Head Penny is one of the rarest in the series, with a low mintage of only 852,500. In 2007, an 1877 Indian Head Penny in excellent condition sold for $149,500 at auction. Its rarity and the challenge of finding it in top condition drive its value.
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny – $117,500
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous pennies among collectors. Minted in San Francisco, it features the designer’s initials, “VDB.” With a relatively low mintage of 484,000, it is rare. In 2014, one of these pennies sold for $117,500 at auction.
The world of rare pennies is fascinating, with each coin telling a unique story of history, error, or exceptional preservation. From accidental creations like the 1943 bronze cents to early American prototypes like the 1792 Birch Cent, these pennies have captivated
collectors and fetched remarkable prices at auction. As interest in numismatics continues to grow, these extraordinary coins will likely remain prized treasures, showcasing the rich history and intriguing tales behind each humble penny.
Why are some pennies worth so much?
Some pennies are valuable due to their rarity, historical significance, or unique errors that occurred during production.
What makes the 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Cent so valuable?
The 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Cent is an error coin made during World War II, with only one known example, making it extremely rare.
How can I tell if I have a rare penny?
To identify a rare penny, you can check for specific mint marks, production errors, and research its historical background.
Where can I sell a rare penny?
Rare pennies can be sold at coin auctions, through reputable coin dealers, or online marketplaces that specialize in rare coins.
Are all old pennies valuable?
Not all old pennies are valuable; their worth depends on factors like rarity, condition, and demand among collectors.
