The majority of pennies that are known to all are worth just one cent, while certain Lincoln pennies are extremely rare and worth huge amounts in the eyes of collectors.
One such penny was worth $350,000, which could give one an idea of what treasures might be stowed away in the spare change of the casual observer. This article will take a look at these rare Lincoln pennies, providing all pertinent details for identification.
1943 one cent copper coin
The copper penny was replaced by a zinc-coated steel penny during America’s Second World War because this country suffered from a copper shortage. However, some pennies were mistakenly struck on bronze planchets leftover from several previous years.
Characteristics:
It was minted in the year 1943.
This penny was minted on a copper planchet instead of steel, which was the intent.
Very few of these coins could be detected based on their weight and magnetic properties.
Value:
One penny, like this one, was reported selling for $11.2 million in a private sale.
1955 Double Die Obverse Penny
The 1955 Double Die Obverse penny shows clear signs of doubling on the date and motto from a misaligned die during the striking process.
Description:
Dated 1955; symbols stand out on the obverse face, particularly date and LIBERTY.
Valuations:
The price for really good coins can be around $200,000.
1969-S Double Die Obverse Penny
Similar to the error penny of 1955, the 1969-S Double Die Obverse is the penny that has doubling on its obverse face, notably in “LIBERTY” as well as the date.
Characteristics:
Besides being dated 1969 and minted in San Francisco contrary to the “S” mintmark.
Obverse is also pronounced; it has an obvious doubling.
Valuable:
An example sold for about $350,000 in 2018.
1943-S Bronze Penny
The 1943-S Bronze Penny is one of the rare coins resulting from minting errors during World War II.
Characteristics:
Dated 1943, minted in San Francisco.
Struck on a bronze planchet instead of steel, which was intended for the coin.
Appraisal/Pricing:
One such coin was auctioned in 2016 for $282,000.
1958 Double Die Obverse Penny
The 1958 Double Die Obverse penny exhibits doubling on the obverse; hence, it is highly demanded by collectors.
Characteristics:
Dated 1958.
Doubling evident in the obverse, mostly on the date and on the word “LIBERTY.”
Value:
One sold for $336,000 at auction.
Rare Lincoln Pennies and Their Estimated Values
| Coin | Mint Year | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Wheat Penny | 1943 | Up to $11.2 million |
| 1955 Double Die Obverse Penny | 1955 | Up to $200,000 |
| 1969-S Double Die Obverse Penny | 1969 | Up to $350,000 |
| 1943-S Bronze Penny | 1943 | Up to $282,000 |
| 1958 Double Die Obverse Penny | 1958 | Up to $336,000 |
How to Reconfirm and Find These Rare Lincoln Pennies
Sort Out Your Penny:
Look for peculiarities such as doubled features, unique mint marks, and design anomalies.
Use a magnifying glass to examine fine details.
Learn the Errors:
Get acquainted with various mint errors and their characteristics: the double die or off-metal strikes.
Check Coin Roll Huns:
Get yourself some rolls of pennies from a bank and search them for possible errors.
Patience and an eye for detail are crucial, as these finds are most rare.
Whereas most pennies are worth only their face value, there are certain exceptional Lincoln pennies, which are quite rare and tend to fetch serious money.
Coins such as the 1943 Copper Wheat Penny and 1955 Double Die Obverse Penny, among other errors mentioned, are prime examples of those that could be worth a pretty penny.
By carefully scrutinizing your Lincoln pennies collection and knowing what to look for, you might discover coins worth a lot more than their one-cent face value. Happy coin hunting!
FAQS:
How can I figure out if my penny is worth something?
Look for unique characteristics, like doubling, a special mint mark, or design anomalies. A good magnifying glass should aid in examining fine detail.
Where to go to sell rare pennies?
Sell those valuable coins to trustworthy coin dealers, auction houses, or online numismatic marketplaces.
Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
Only those pennies that were accidentally struck on bronze planchets have value. Most 1943 pennies are steel and common, not rare.