In the realm of coins, some unusual coins are engaged in ordinary transactions by concealing their actual worth. People mostly overlook them, but if you are slightly prudent, a small coin in your pocket or piggy bank can alter your fate.
As per specialists, five such rare penny coins amounting to approximately $12 million still exist in everyday transactions. These coins not only hold a historical significance but are also incredibly rare. Let’s find out which are those invaluable coins—
1. Copper Penny of 1943 – A historical mistake
During World War II, copper was also used in America to produce guns and other military hardware. This is why, in 1943, the US Mint began producing pennies out of steel and zinc. However, due to an error, some 1942 copper plates remained intact and were dated as 1943.
Today, there are only 40-50 of these coins, and they are worth anywhere from $100,000 to $1.7 million!
If you came across a 1943 copper penny, it’s worth testing whether it is genuine. A genuine coin will not adhere to a magnet and weighs 3.11 grams.
2. 1944 Steel Penny – The Reverse Change
In 1944, pennies were made from copper and brass again at the US Mint, but accidentally some of the previous steel coins were issued with the 1944 date.
Just 30-40 of this limited edition coin have surfaced till date, and it is estimated that around 15-20 are still in circulation in the market.
If you happen to stumble upon a silver-colored 1944 penny, ensure that it is checked since it can cost between $75,000 to $500,000.
3. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse – Printing Error
A Doubled Die mistake created at the San Francisco Mint in 1969 has rendered some coins very rare. It contains a double impression of “LIBERTY” and the date 1969 prominently visible.
Just 50-75 authentic coins have been discovered so far, and specialists believe that 30-40 additional coins remain to be discovered. They can be worth between $25,000 to $75,000.
If you possess a 1969 penny with an “S” mintmark, examine it closely. The ideal coin can be worth millions!
4. 1992 Close AM – Small But Important Error
During 1992, a few coins had the “A” and “M” in the word “AMERICA” too close together, when they were typically far apart.
This is only discovered in some coins from the Philadelphia and Denver Mints. There were around 15,000-20,000 such coins ever distributed, but not many have been discovered so far.
This coin is valued at between $2,000 to $20,000. Identify it using a 5x to 10x magnifying glass.
5. 1958 Doubled Die Obverse – The Unknown Priceless Coin
This 1958 Doubled Die penny is underappreciated. The coin bears the face of LIBERTY and the year 1958 printed twice.
Just 500 certified coins have been discovered so far, while an estimated 1,000-2,000 more coins remain in circulation.
This coin can be valued between $3,000 to $15,000. If you discover a 1958 penny, make sure to have it microscopically tested to authenticate it.
How to find these priceless coins?
If you too are searching for these special coins, then you can locate them as follows—
Be aware of special dates – Examine the coins of 1943, 1944, 1958, 1969 and 1992 particularly.
Use the correct identification method –
- 1943 Copper Penny Will not adhere to the magnet.
- 1944 Steel Penny Will adhere to the magnet.
- Look out for the large letters** to recognize 1969-S and 1958 Doubled Die coins.
- Employ 10x magnifying glass in verifying 1992 Close AM.
Get Appraised and Authenticated –
When you locate an atypical coin, have it evaluated by appraisal institutions such as PCGS or NGC.
Do You Have the Next Rare Coin?
History has proven that most of the time people unknowingly use these rare coins. Recently, in January 2025, an Ohio store clerk discovered a 1969-S Doubled Die Penny and sold it for $42,000!
There are $12 million worth of such coins in circulation today in the market. The next time you come across a penny, inspect it closely—it could be the coin that alters your destiny!
FAQs
Q1. How can I tell if I have a rare 1943 copper penny?
A genuine 1943 copper penny will not stick to a magnet and should weigh 3.11 grams. If your 1943 penny is attracted to a magnet, it is likely made of steel and not valuable.
Q2. What makes the 1969-S doubled die penny so valuable?
This penny features a dramatic doubling effect on the words “LIBERTY” and the date “1969”, making it one of the most sought-after error coins. Its rarity and high demand drive its value up to $75,000 or more.
Q3. How much is a 1944 steel penny worth?
A genuine 1944 steel penny can be worth between $75,000 and $500,000, depending on its condition. Since these coins are magnetic, you can easily test them with a magnet.
Q4. Where can I sell a rare penny coin?
Rare pennies can be sold at coin auctions, online marketplaces (like eBay or Heritage Auctions), and to professional coin dealers. Getting it graded by PCGS or NGC can increase its value.
Q5. Are these rare pennies still in circulation today?
Yes! Experts estimate that approximately $12 million worth of these rare pennies are still undiscovered in pocket change, piggy banks, and coin rolls. Checking your coins carefully could lead to an incredible find!