Pennies might seem like just small change, but some are worth a lot more than their face value! While they are officially worth only one cent, certain rare pennies can sell for astonishing prices at auctions. These special coins often have unique stories, rare errors, or are in great condition, making them treasures for collectors. In this article, we will explore the top 13 most expensive pennies ever sold at auction and reveal the fascinating stories behind their impressive values.
1. 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Cent – $1.7 Million
The 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Cent is one of the most famous error coins. During World War II, the U.S. Mint used zinc-coated steel for pennies to save copper. However, a few bronze blanks were accidentally used in 1943. The 1943-D, minted in Denver, is extremely rare, with only one known example. In 2010, it sold for a record-breaking $1.7 million at auction.
2. 1943-S Lincoln Bronze Cent – $1 Million
Like its Denver counterpart, the 1943-S Lincoln Bronze Cent is another accidental creation. Minted in San Francisco, this penny is one of the few 1943 bronze pennies. In 2012, one sold for $1 million, showing the high demand for these error coins.
3. 1792 Birch Cent – $2.58 Million
The 1792 Birch Cent is a significant piece of American history. Designed by Robert Birch, it’s one of the earliest prototypes of the U.S. cent. Only a few were made, making them incredibly rare. In 2015, one sold for $2.58 million at auction, thanks to its historical importance and scarcity.
4. 1944-S Steel Lincoln Penny – $373,750
The 1944-S Steel Lincoln Penny is another rare error coin. In 1944, the U.S. Mint switched back to copper, but some steel blanks from the previous year were mistakenly used. The 1944-S, minted in San Francisco, is one of the rarest steel pennies. In 2008, one sold for $373,750 at auction.
5. 1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny – $258,500
The 1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny marks the first year the Lincoln Cent was issued. It features the initials “VDB” of its designer, Victor David Brenner. Only a few dozen of these coins exist, making them highly sought after. In 2014, one sold for $258,500 at auction.
6. 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny – $336,000
The 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny is an error coin with a unique feature: the doubling of the date and lettering on the front side. Only three examples are known to exist. In 2018, one sold for $336,000 at auction.
7. 1943 Lincoln Cent Struck on Bronze Planchet – $840,000
Another 1943 bronze penny without a mint mark has also fetched a high price. In 2013, a 1943 Lincoln Cent struck on a bronze planchet sold for $840,000. The story behind these error coins makes them very valuable.
8. 1793 Chain Cent – $2.35 Million
The 1793 Chain Cent was the first penny issued by the U.S. Mint. It features a chain design on the back, which was quickly changed due to controversy. This makes the Chain Cent rare. In 2011, it sold for $2.35 million at auction.
9. 1914-D Lincoln Penny – $152,750
The 1914-D Lincoln Penny is important for collectors. Minted in Denver, this penny has one of the lowest mintage issues in the Lincoln Cent series. In 2017, a 1914-D penny in excellent condition sold for $152,750 at auction.
10. 1856 Flying Eagle Cent – $172,500
The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent represents a shift from large cents to the smaller size we use today. Only about 2,000 of these coins were minted. In 2004, one sold for $172,500 at auction, making it highly sought after due to its low mintage.
11. 1922 No D Plain Lincoln Penny – $74,750
The 1922 No D Plain Lincoln Penny is another notable error coin. Some 1922 pennies were struck without the “D” mint mark because of die wear at the Denver Mint. In 2008, one of these rare coins sold for $74,750 at auction.
12. 1877 Indian Head Penny – $149,500
The 1877 Indian Head Penny is one of the rarest in its series, with only 852,500 minted. In 2007, an 1877 Indian Head Penny in excellent condition sold for $149,500 at auction, driving its value due to its rarity.
13. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny – $117,500
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny is among the most famous pennies for collectors. Minted in San Francisco, it features the designer’s initials, “VDB.” With a low mintage of 484,000, it is rare. In 2014, one sold for $117,500 at auction.
The world of rare pennies is truly fascinating. Each coin has a unique story filled with history, error, or exceptional preservation. From accidental creations like the 1943 bronze cents to early American prototypes like the 1792 Birch Cent, these pennies have captivated collectors and fetched impressive prices at auctions. As interest in coin collecting continues to grow, these extraordinary coins will likely remain treasured items, showcasing the rich history and intriguing tales behind each penny.
1. What makes a penny rare?
A penny can be considered rare due to its limited mintage, historical significance, unique errors in design, or exceptional condition
2. How can I find out if I have a valuable penny?
To determine if you have a valuable penny, check for unique features such as errors, unusual dates, or mint marks. Consulting a coin price guide or seeking advice from a professional numismatist or coin dealer can also help assess its value.
3. Where can I sell rare pennies?
Rare pennies can be sold at coin shops, through online auction sites, or at coin shows. Make sure to research the best selling platform and consider getting your coin appraised for its value before selling.
4. How are rare pennies valued?
The value of rare pennies is determined by factors like their rarity, demand among collectors, condition, and historical significance. Auctions and price guides can provide insights into current market values.
5. What should I do if I think I have a rare penny?
If you suspect you have a rare penny, handle it carefully to avoid damage, and consider getting it professionally appraised. You can also research its history and value to understand its significance better.
