Lincoln pennies have been a staple of American coinage since their introduction in 1909. While many of these pennies are worth only their face value, certain rare and valuable coins can fetch impressive sums.
This article will guide you through the top 15 most valuable Lincoln pennies, providing key details, facts, and figures to help collectors and enthusiasts identify these prized coins.
1. 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny is arguably the most famous and sought-after penny in U.S. numismatics. Produced in San Francisco, this coin was minted in limited numbers, making it rare. The āV.D.B.ā initials on the reverse, which stand for Victor David Brenner, the engraver, were removed after public outcry for being too prominent. Coins in mint state can command prices over $100,000.
2. 1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D Lincoln penny is another highly prized coin. The Denver mint produced a limited number of these pennies, resulting in their rarity. In mint condition, the 1914-D can be worth between $1,000 and $10,000, depending on its grade and condition.
3. 1922 Plain Lincoln Penny
The 1922 Plain Lincoln penny is notable for its error: the Denver mint struck these coins without the āDā mintmark. As a result, they are highly collectible, with prices ranging from $1,500 to over $20,000 for high-quality specimens.
4. 1931-S Lincoln Penny
The 1931-S Lincoln penny is rare due to its low mintage. Itās a favorite among collectors because of its scarcity. Coins in excellent condition can be worth between $1,000 and $5,000, with the value increasing based on the coin’s grade.
5. 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
The 1943 Copper Lincoln penny is a famous error coin. Due to the wartime switch to steel for pennies, a few copper blanks were accidentally used. This error coin is extremely rare, with specimens selling for over $100,000.
6. 1944 Steel Lincoln Penny
The 1944 Steel Lincoln penny is another rare error coin. Following WWII, steel pennies were not supposed to be minted, but a few were mistakenly produced. These coins can be worth between $50,000 and $100,000, depending on their condition.
7. 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln penny is known for its distinctive doubling of the date and lettering on the obverse. This error coin is highly sought after, with prices ranging from $1,000 to over $10,000, based on its condition.
8. 1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1969-S Double Die Lincoln penny is another notable error coin. The doubling on the obverse is subtle but present. High-quality specimens of this coin can sell for between $20,000 and $100,000, depending on their grade.
9. 1970-S Lincoln Penny
The 1970-S Lincoln penny is noteworthy for its low mintage. While not as famous as other error coins, it is still sought after, with prices ranging from $50 to $500, depending on its condition.
10. 1983 Double Die Lincoln Penny
The 1983 Double Die Lincoln penny features doubling on the obverse, though it is not as pronounced as other error coins. Collectors prize these coins, with values ranging from $100 to $500.
11. 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Lincoln Penny
The 2004-D Wisconsin Extra Leaf Lincoln penny is a famous error coin where an extra leaf appears on the reverse. This error coin can be worth between $100 and $500, depending on its quality.
12. 2009-S Lincoln Penny (Proof)
The 2009-S Lincoln penny was part of a special proof set released to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Lincoln penny. These coins are valued for their limited mintage, with prices ranging from $50 to $150.
13. 2009-D Lincoln Penny (Low Mintage)
The 2009-D Lincoln penny, produced in Denver, had a lower mintage compared to other years. As a result, these coins are sought after by collectors, with values ranging from $10 to $100, based on their condition.
14. 2015-P Lincoln Penny (Motto Error)
The 2015-P Lincoln penny is notable for its missing āIn God We Trustā motto on some coins. This error can make the penny worth between $50 and $200.
15. 2019-W Lincoln Penny
The 2019-W Lincoln penny was minted in limited numbers at the West Point mint to commemorate the 113th anniversary of the Lincoln penny. These coins are valued for their limited availability, with prices ranging from $50 to $200.
Conclusion
Lincoln pennies offer a fascinating glimpse into American numismatics, with some coins fetching impressive sums due to their rarity and historical significance.
From the legendary 1909-S V.D.B. to modern error coins like the 2019-W, collectors and enthusiasts alike find these pennies both intriguing and valuable.
Understanding the key details and values of these coins can enhance any collection and provide valuable insights into the world of coin collecting.
FAQs
1. What makes the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny so valuable?
The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny is valuable due to its limited mintage and the initial controversy over the prominent designer’s initials, which were later removed.
2. How can I identify a 1943 Copper Lincoln penny?
A 1943 Copper Lincoln penny can be identified by its copper color, unlike the steel pennies that were produced that year. An authentic 1943 Copper penny is extremely rare.
3. What are the key features of a 1955 Double Die Lincoln penny?
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln penny features noticeable doubling of the date and the word “Liberty” on the obverse. The doubling is most apparent under magnification.
4. How can I tell if my 1969-S Lincoln penny is a Double Die?
The 1969-S Double Die Lincoln penny has subtle doubling on the obverse, especially around the date and lettering. It may require a magnifying glass to detect.
5. Are 2009-S Lincoln pennies worth more than regular pennies?
Yes, the 2009-S Lincoln pennies are valued higher due to their limited mintage and their release in a special proof set celebrating the Lincoln penny’s centennial.
