Many valuable pennies look ordinary at a glance. This guide explains five specific types of rare pennies to check for, how to identify them, and what to do if you find one in a jar, drawer, or piggy bank.
Top 5 rare pennies that could be worth up to $700,000
Below are five penny varieties frequently found in collections and estates. Values depend on date, mintmark, condition, and authentication. Use the descriptions to spot candidates and avoid false positives.
1. 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent (1943 copper penny)
Why it’s rare: Most 1943 cents were struck in zinc-coated steel. A few were accidentally struck on copper planchets and are highly sought after.
- How to identify: Solid copper color, heavier feel than steel, no magnetic attraction.
- What to check: Date clarity, mintmark location, and metal color. If unsure, weigh the coin (copper cents are heavier).
- Value note: High-grade certified examples can command very large prices. Authentication is essential.
2. 1955 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent (1955 doubled die)
Why it’s rare: A die error produced a pronounced doubling of the date and inscriptions on the obverse. This is one of the most famous modern errors.
- How to identify: Look for doubled letters in “LIBERTY” and the date. Doubling is usually very visible with a magnifier.
- What to check: Some doubling is minor; only strong, full doubling is valuable.
- Value note: Condition and strength of the doubling determine value.
3. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent (1909 S VDB)
Why it’s rare: Early Lincoln cents from the San Francisco mint with the designer initials VDB on the reverse were quickly removed, making surviving examples scarce.
- How to identify: Look for the small “S” mintmark below the date on the obverse and the initials “VDB” on the reverse rim.
- What to check: Original surfaces and strike quality raise value.
- Value note: High-grade specimens are especially valuable to collectors of Lincoln cents.
4. 1914-D Lincoln Cent (1914 D)
Why it’s rare: Low mintage at the Denver mint and many circulated examples make high-grade coins scarce.
- How to identify: Date and a small “D” mintmark below the date. Check for strong detail on Lincoln’s bust.
- What to check: Condition—mint state examples are rare and bring higher prices.
- Value note: Even worn examples are collectible; mint state coins can reach high values.
5. Indian Head Cents With Certain Date/Mint Varieties (Indian Head pennies)
Why it’s rare: Specific dates and die variations in the Indian Head series are scarce, especially in high grades.
- How to identify: Verify the date and inspect for unusual die marks, repunched dates, or misplaced features.
- What to check: Survivability in high grades is low—clean, original surfaces increase value.
- Value note: Rare Indian Head varieties can attract serious collector interest.
How to identify rare pennies in your home
A careful inspection can turn an ordinary penny into a valuable discovery. Follow these practical steps to narrow candidates.
- Use a magnifier (10x) and good light to inspect dates, mintmarks, and doubling.
- Check weight and magnetism: steel 1943 cents attract magnets; copper does not and weigh more.
- Compare to verified images from PCGS, NGC, or reputable reference books.
- Document the coin with sharp photos of both sides and the edge before further handling.
What to do if you find a rare penny
Handling, documentation, and professional authentication make the difference between a garage sale price and full market value.
- Avoid cleaning or polishing the coin. Cleaning can destroy value.
- Photograph the coin clearly from multiple angles and note where it was found.
- Get a professional opinion: contact a reputable coin dealer or submit the coin to a third-party grading service (PCGS or NGC).
- Consider selling options: auction houses, specialist dealers, or certified online marketplaces. Ask about fees and guarantees.
Some mint errors and rare dates are worth more in circulated condition than cleaned or restored high-grade examples. Original surfaces are often more valuable than absolute grade.
Real-world example: what to expect
A homeowner found a worn Lincoln cent in an old coin tin and suspected it wasn’t ordinary. They photographed the coin and sent images to an online coin forum, where experienced collectors suggested it might be a 1955 doubled die candidate.
Following advice, the owner did not clean the coin and instead submitted it to a local dealer for initial inspection. The dealer recommended third-party grading. After authentication and a mid-grade certification, the coin sold at a specialist auction for a five-figure price—substantially more than the owner expected.
This example shows the value of documentation, avoiding cleaning, and using professional channels for authentication and sale.
Quick checklist before you sell a rare penny
- Stop handling—use gloves or hold by the rim.
- Photograph and describe the find location.
- Seek professional authentication and grading.
- Get multiple sale offers or consult auction houses for high-value items.
Checking jars and drawers can uncover surprisingly valuable coins. Use the identification tips above, protect any candidate coins you find, and consult professionals before making sale decisions. Careful handling and proper authentication maximize what you might receive—sometimes significantly more than face value.