Many people have pennies lying around in jars, drawers, or old collections—coins that may seem ordinary but could hide incredible value. Some rare pennies have sold for prices reaching into the millions, making them some of the most sought-after coins by collectors worldwide. If you happen to own one of these rare gems, your penny could be worth far more than its face value. Here are three rare pennies that have made headlines for their staggering worth and could be hiding in your collection.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny
One of the most famous and valuable pennies is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny. Minted in San Francisco, it was the first year the Lincoln design was used on pennies, and the “VDB” initials of the coin’s designer, Victor David Brenner, appear on the reverse. Only about 484,000 were made, making it extremely rare. A pristine specimen recently sold for over $1 million, especially those graded in mint condition.
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
During World War II, pennies were made of steel due to copper shortages—except for a small batch mistakenly struck on copper blanks. These 1943 Copper Lincoln Pennies are some of the rarest and most valuable error coins. They can sell for hundreds of thousands, even reaching the million-dollar mark if in perfect condition. Their unique history and scarcity make them prized finds.
1885 Indian Head Penny
The 1885 Indian Head Penny is another rare gem. Although millions were minted, most were melted down or lost over time, making surviving examples scarce. Collectors prize this penny for its classic design and rarity, and top-condition coins have fetched close to $1 million at auction.
While the average penny might seem insignificant, these rare and historically significant pennies are worth a fortune—sometimes more than a million dollars. If you find any of these coins in your collection, it’s worth getting them professionally appraised and graded. Who knows? That old penny could turn out to be your most valuable possession.
FAQ’s:
1. How do I know if my penny is rare?
Check the date, mintmark, and any unusual features like mint errors. Reference coin guides or consult a professional.
2. What does “VDB” stand for on pennies?
It stands for Victor David Brenner, the designer of the Lincoln cent. Coins with his initials from 1909 are especially valuable.
3. Why are 1943 pennies sometimes copper?
Due to a minting error, some 1943 pennies were struck on copper blanks instead of steel, making them very rare.
4. How should I protect a valuable penny?
Store it in a protective holder or capsule away from moisture and excessive handling.
5. Can the value of rare pennies increase over time?
Yes, as coins become rarer and more sought after by collectors, their value often rises.
