Lincoln Cents are one of the most famous and collected coins in the United States. These pennies, which first appeared in 1909 to honor President Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, have become a staple in the world of coin collection. Over the years, Lincoln Cents have featured unique designs, errors, and minting mistakes that make certain editions highly sought after by collectors.
Some Lincoln Cents are particularly valuable because they are rare, feature unique design errors, or were minted in limited numbers. If you’re a coin collector or just interested in learning more about valuable coins, here are ten rare and valuable Lincoln Cents you should know about.
1. 1909-S VDB
The 1909-S VDB is arguably the most famous and valuable Lincoln Cent. This coin is rare because only a small number were made, and it features the initials “VDB” (for Victor David Brenner, the designer of the coin) on the reverse. It was minted in San Francisco, and its rarity and historical importance make it one of the most sought-after pennies. The value of a high-grade 1909-S VDB can range from $700 to $1,200.
2. 1914-D
The 1914-D Lincoln Cent is another valuable coin due to its limited mintage in Denver. It is one of the hardest to find, especially in excellent condition. Because of its rarity, collectors are willing to pay between $1,500 and $5,000 for a high-quality example of this penny.
3. 1922 No D
The 1922 No D Lincoln Cent is famous for its error. The “D” mintmark, which normally shows where the coin was minted, was accidentally left off during production at the Denver Mint. This missing mintmark makes the coin a rare and valuable find. Depending on the condition, a 1922 No D penny can be worth between $500 and $3,000.
4. 1931-S
The 1931-S Lincoln Cent is one of the most valuable in the series because of its low mintage. Only a small number of these coins were made, and they are especially rare in high-quality condition. Collectors prize this coin, and its value ranges from $100 to $300 in lower grades, but it can be worth much more in excellent condition.
5. 1943 Bronze
In 1943, due to the shortage of copper during World War II, most Lincoln Cents were made from steel. However, a few were mistakenly struck on bronze planchets (the metal disks used to make the coins). These 1943 Bronze pennies are extremely rare and can fetch prices between $100,000 and $250,000 in top condition.
6. 1944 Steel
After the war, the U.S. Mint returned to using bronze for the Lincoln Cent in 1944. However, a few coins were mistakenly struck on leftover steel planchets from 1943, creating the 1944 Steel penny. This rare error coin can be worth between $75,000 and $110,000, depending on its condition.
7. 1955 Doubled Die
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is famous for the noticeable doubling on the obverse (front) of the coin, especially in the date and lettering. This error makes the coin highly valuable, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $12,000, depending on its grade.
8. 1969-S Doubled Die
The 1969-S Doubled Die is another error coin that is highly sought after. The word “LIBERTY” and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” are both noticeably doubled, making it one of the most desirable and valuable Lincoln Cents. In high grades, these coins can be worth between $35,000 and $75,000.
9. 1972 Doubled Die
The 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent also features doubling on the obverse, especially in the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY.” While it’s not as rare as the 1955 or 1969-S versions, it is still an error coin that many collectors seek. A 1972 Doubled Die can be worth between $200 and $500 in good condition.
10. 1992 Close AM
The 1992 Close AM penny is a modern error that occurs in some 1992 coins. Normally, there is a small space between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse of the coin. However, on the Close AM variety, the letters are closer together. This rare variation makes the coin highly valuable, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 for a well-preserved specimen.
Conclusion
Collecting rare Lincoln Cents can be an exciting and rewarding hobby, especially when you discover coins with unique historical or error-based qualities. The coins listed here—like the 1909-S VDB, the 1943 Bronze penny, and the 1969-S Doubled Die—are some of the most valuable and sought-after in the Lincoln Cent series. Whether you’re an experienced collector or just starting out, these rare pennies can make great additions to any collection. Keep an eye out for these coins in circulation or at auctions, as they can fetch significant amounts of money and hold historical importance.
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