Imagine cleaning out an old jar under the sink, one that has been forgotten for years, only to discover that a single penny inside is worth $99,999. This is exactly what happened to a lucky coin collector when they found a rare 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny mixed in with old, discarded change. The penny, once thought to be just another coin, turned out to be a highly sought-after rarity, worth far more than its face value. The discovery proves that even the most overlooked coins can carry tremendous value if you know what to look for. Let’s take a closer look at this rare find and other valuable pennies you should be on the lookout for in your own collection.
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
The 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous and valuable errors in U.S. coinage. In 1943, the U.S. Mint switched to producing steel pennies to save copper for military use during World War II. However, a small batch of copper planchets (blanks) from 1942 accidentally made it into the 1943 production process, resulting in a handful of copper pennies. These copper pennies are incredibly rare and can sell for a fortune, with well-preserved specimens often fetching prices upwards of $100,000. The find in the dusty jar was a lucky jackpot for its owner, who now holds a piece of history worth a small fortune.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
Another rare and valuable penny is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny. This penny was the first to feature the image of Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor David Brenner. Only 484,000 of these pennies were minted in San Francisco, making them highly sought after by collectors. The “VDB” initials on the reverse of the coin, representing the designer’s name, were removed shortly after production due to public outcry. The rarity of the 1909-S VDB penny, combined with the historical significance, has made it one of the most valuable coins in American numismatics. Depending on the condition, it can be worth anywhere from $5,000 to over $100,000.
The discovery of the 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny in a dusty jar under the sink serves as a reminder to always check the coins you come across carefully. Rare pennies, such as the 1909-S VDB and the 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny, can bring in massive payouts if you happen to find one in your collection. With a little luck and some careful inspection, you might be holding a small fortune in your hands. So, before you toss that old jar of pennies, take a moment to examine them – you never know when you’ll stumble upon your own jackpot.
FAQ’s:
1. What is the value of a 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny?
The 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny can be worth $100,000 or more, depending on its condition and whether it has been graded by a professional.
2. How do I identify a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny?
The 1909-S VDB penny can be identified by its “VDB” initials on the reverse of the coin, just below the wheat stalks. The 1909-S VDB is also unique because of its limited mintage and high demand.
3. Where can I sell rare coins like the 1943 Copper Penny?
You can sell rare coins through professional coin dealers, online auction platforms like eBay, or at coin conventions. It’s recommended to have the coin appraised and graded by a certified numismatist before selling.
4. Should I clean rare coins before selling them?
No, cleaning rare coins can decrease their value. Always leave coins in their original, unaltered condition for the best sale price.
5. How can I tell if I have a rare penny?
Look for key factors such as mint year, mint marks, and potential errors (like double dies or copper planchets). Coins with significant rarity or defects are often valuable.
