Many valuable coins start life as everyday change. This guide shows five rare pennies that sometimes turn up in jars, drawers, and wallets. Read on to learn how to identify each type, what to check for, and next steps if you think you have one.
Top 5 Rare Pennies to Look For
These five types of pennies are among the most sought after by collectors. Each line includes the key identifying marks, condition tips, and why it can be valuable.
1. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent (1943 Copper Penny)
Most 1943 cents were struck in zinc-coated steel because copper went to the war effort. A few were accidentally struck on bronze planchets.
- How to identify: Heavier and brown like a normal penny, not silver-gray steel.
- Condition matters: Uncleaned, high grade examples command the most interest.
- Why it’s valuable: Extreme rarity as an accidental minting error makes it highly collectible.
2. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
The 1955 doubled die is famous for its strong doubling on the date and inscriptions on the obverse. Collectors prize clear, bold doubling.
- How to identify: Look for doubled letters in “LIBERTY” and the date. Doubling appears as two distinct outlines.
- Condition matters: Mid-to-high grade pieces are worth significantly more.
- Why it’s valuable: A minting error that is visually dramatic and widely known in numismatics.
3. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
This is one of the earliest Lincoln cents and a key date for collectors. The initials “VDB” (designer Victor D. Brenner) on the reverse were removed early in production, making the few that remain rare.
- How to identify: Look for VDB initials on the reverse at the bottom and the small “S” mintmark under the date.
- Condition matters: High grade (mint state) examples are exponentially more valuable.
- Why it’s valuable: Short production run for the VDB variety plus San Francisco mint scarcity.
4. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
The 1914-D is a classic scarce Lincoln cent and is a key piece for many collections. It was produced in small numbers at the Denver Mint.
- How to identify: Look for the “D” mintmark below the date on the obverse.
- Condition matters: Certified mint state specimens bring the highest prices.
- Why it’s valuable: Low mintage combined with collector demand makes it a top date.
5. Early Large Cents and Indian Head Pennies
Pre-1909 large cents and Indian Head pennies can be surprisingly valuable, especially in good condition or with rare varieties.
- How to identify: Larger size for early cents; Indian Head shows a Native American profile on the obverse.
- Condition matters: Many are worn from circulation; well-preserved pieces are rare and valuable.
- Why it’s valuable: Age, rarity, and many collectible varieties across years and mints.
Errors, low mintages, and early production changes are the main reasons pennies become valuable. Even a small mintmark or doubled letter can change a penny from a few cents to thousands of dollars.
How to Inspect Pennies at Home
Start with a basic inspection tools kit that won’t damage the coin. Simple care and correct identification will protect the coin’s value.
- Use a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe (10x) to check dates, mintmarks, and doubling.
- A digital scale and calipers help confirm metal and weight for suspected 1943 bronze cents.
- Do not clean the coin—cleaning can destroy collector value.
What To Do If You Find a Rare Penny
If you believe you have a rare penny, take careful steps to preserve value and prove authenticity.
- Handle by the edges and place the coin in a soft holder or flip.
- Document where and how you found it and take clear photos from both sides.
- Consult a reputable coin dealer or third-party grading service for authentication and grading.
Where to Get a Penny Professionally Graded
Third-party services like PCGS and NGC are widely recognized. Grading adds buyer confidence and typically increases auction value for high-grade rarities.
Small Real-World Case Study
A homeowner emptied a jar of mixed change and noticed a penny that looked darker and heavier than the rest. After inspecting it with a loupe and comparing photos, they suspected a 1943 bronze cent. They reached out to a local coin dealer, who recommended a third-party grader. The coin was authenticated as a rare bronze strike and subsequently sold at auction to a collector. The owner used the proceeds to cover unexpected home repairs.
This example shows the practical steps: spot the odd coin, avoid cleaning, get expert confirmation, and use trusted auction or dealer channels.
Final Tips for Searching Your Home
Look in old jars, coin rolls, wallets, and drawers. Pay special attention to coins that look different in color, weight, or lettering. Use simple tools and rely on experts before making any selling decisions.
- Keep finds safe in non-PVC holders and avoid tape or adhesive.
- Document provenance—where you found the coin and any history known.
- Get multiple opinions if a coin seems very valuable; reputable dealers will provide clear guidance.
Finding a rare penny can be exciting, but prudence preserves value. With a little knowledge and the right contacts, an old coin could turn out to be unexpectedly valuable.
