Top 10 Rare Lincoln Pennies Still in Circulation
Everyday change can hide valuable coins. This guide lists the top 10 rare Lincoln pennies still sometimes found in circulation and shows what to look for.
Use the short checks here to quickly identify key dates, mint marks, and errors before you hand a coin to a dealer or list it online.
1. Lincoln pennies 1909 S VDB
The 1909-S VDB is one of the most sought-after Lincoln pennies in circulation. Look for “VDB” initials on the reverse at the rim near the wheat stalk.
Value in heavily worn condition can reach several hundred dollars, rising sharply with better preservation.
2. Lincoln pennies 1909 VDB (Philadelphia)
The original 1909 VDB from Philadelphia is also scarce. Check the reverse for the VDB initials and confirm the date is clear on the obverse.
Even worn examples are collectible; uncirculated coins can be worth thousands.
3. Lincoln pennies 1914 D
The 1914-D is a key Denver issue with low mintage. Inspect the date and the small “D” mint mark under the date.
Circulated examples are valuable; confirm authenticity if you find one as counterfeits exist.
4. Lincoln pennies 1922 No D
The 1922 plain (no D) is a famous rare. Many 1922 pennies look weakly struck; the true rarity is the piece with no visible mint mark in the planchet area.
Check the center of the reverse and the area below the date for any faint mint mark remnants.
5. Lincoln pennies 1943 Bronze
Most 1943 cents are steel, but a few bronze planchets were accidentally struck. These 1943 bronze pennies are extremely rare and highly valuable.
If you suspect a 1943 copper coin, do not clean it. Seek professional authentication promptly.
6. Lincoln pennies 1955 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1955 doubled die obverse shows very noticeable doubling on the date and the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
This error was widely publicized; circulated examples still command strong premiums depending on severity.
7. Lincoln pennies 1969 S Doubled Die Obverse
The 1969-S doubled die obverse is rare in circulation and often seen only in proofs or high grades. Look for doubling on the date and lettering.
Because many suspected pieces were later identified as proofs, get this type authenticated if found.
8. Lincoln pennies 1970 S and 1972 Doubled Dies
Various doubled die varieties exist from the early 1970s. The 1970-S and some 1972 doubled dies can show doubling on letters and date.
These are less dramatic than 1955, but still desirable to collectors. Always compare suspected examples to reference photos.
9. Lincoln pennies 1982 Copper
In mid-1982 the Mint switched from mostly copper planchets to zinc with a copper plating. Copper 1982 cents are still occasionally found and are worth more than the zinc ones.
Weighing the coin helps: copper 1982 cents weigh about 3.11 grams while zinc ones weigh 2.5 grams. A pocket scale makes this quick.
10. Lincoln pennies modern errors and varieties
Modern mint errors—broadstrikes, off-center strikes, repunched mint marks, and doubled dies—can appear in regular circulation. Any clear, unusual strike or planchet error is worth checking.
Photograph suspicious coins and compare to online error databases before spending on grading.
How to Check Your Change for Rare Lincoln Pennies
Use a simple, consistent process when you have a minute to inspect coins from change. Focus on date, mint mark, and obvious doubling or metal differences.
- Look at the date and mint mark area first; these determine many rare varieties.
- Check the reverse for VDB initials and wheat ears on older cents.
- Use a magnifier or smartphone macro camera to spot doubling and micro mint marks.
- Weigh coins for 1982 copper vs zinc identification.
Quick Value Ranges and Tips
Values vary widely by grade and authentication. Here are rough circulated ranges collectors commonly see.
- 1909-S VDB and 1909 VDB: hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- 1914-D and 1922 No D: tens to thousands, depending on wear.
- 1955 Doubled Die: hundreds to thousands for clear examples.
- 1943 Bronze: often sells for six-figure totals when authenticated.
- 1982 Copper: modest premiums in low grade, higher in uncirculated condition.
Did You Know?
Some of the most valuable Lincoln pennies were found in everyday change. A few accidental planchets and mint errors slipped through production and ended up in circulation for decades.
Case Study: A Real-World Find
A small-town shopkeeper once found a worn 1955 doubled die among afternoon change. They photographed the coin and posted it to an online forum.
After authentication, the coin sold for a four-figure sum. The seller later used a coin dealer and an auction service for best results.
When to Get a Coin Authenticated
If you suspect a high-value date, error, or an unusual metal composition, stop handling the coin and keep it in a soft holder.
Seek a reputable third-party grading service or experienced local dealer for authentication before listing for sale.
Final Checklist When Checking Your Change
- Inspect dates and mint marks closely.
- Look for VDB initials and doubled lettering on obverse.
- Weigh coins or use a magnet for suspected steel cents.
- Photograph and research before cleaning or selling.
Checking change can be rewarding and inexpensive. Keep these top 10 rare Lincoln pennies in mind and take a closer look next time you get a roll of pennies.
