Pennies might seem like small change, but some of them are worth a lot of money! While they only have a face value of one cent, certain rare pennies have sold for amazing prices at auctions. These coins often have unique histories, errors, or are in exceptional condition, making them valuable treasures for collectors.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 13 most expensive pennies ever sold and discover the 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 switched to using zinc-coated steel for pennies to save copper for the war effort.
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
Similar to its Denver counterpart, the 1943-S Lincoln Bronze Cent was also an accidental creation. Minted in San Francisco, this penny is one of the few 1943 bronze pennies. In 2012, one of these rare coins sold for $1 million, highlighting the high demand and value of these error coins.
3. 1792 Birch Cent – $2.58 Million
The 1792 Birch Cent is a 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. Its historical importance and scarcity make it highly coveted among collectors.
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 a few 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 of these pennies sold for $336,000 at auction.
7. 1943 Lincoln Cent Struck on Bronze Planchet – $840,000
Another 1943 bronze penny, this one 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 and their rarity makes them highly 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 controversial and quickly changed. This makes the Chain Cent rare. In 2011, a 1793 Chain Cent sold for $2.35 million at auction.
9. 1914-D Lincoln Penny – $152,750
The 1914-D Lincoln Penny is a key date for collectors. Minted in Denver, this penny is 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 transition from large cents to the smaller size used 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 and historical significance.
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 due to 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 the series, with a low mintage of only 852,500. In 2007, an 1877 Indian Head Penny in excellent condition sold for $149,500 at auction. Its rarity and the challenge of finding it in top condition drive its value.
13. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny – $117,500
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous pennies among collectors. Minted in San Francisco, it features the designer’s initials, “VDB.” With a relatively low mintage of 484,000, it is rare. In 2014, one sold for $117,500 at auction.
The world of rare pennies is fascinating. Each coin tells a unique story of 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 remarkable prices at auction.
As interest in numismatics continues to grow, these extraordinary coins will likely remain prized treasures, showcasing the rich history and intriguing tales behind each humble penny.
What makes a penny valuable?
Rare pennies are valuable due to factors like historical significance, unique errors, or exceptional condition. For example, coins from certain years or with minting mistakes are often worth more.
Why are some 1943 pennies so valuable?
Most 1943 pennies were made from steel to save copper for the war effort, but a few were mistakenly made from bronze. These error coins are extremely rare and therefore highly valuable.
What is the most expensive penny ever sold?
The 1792 Birch Cent holds the record for the most expensive penny ever sold, fetching $2.58 million at auction in 2015.
How can I tell if my penny is valuable?
To determine if a penny is valuable, look for rare dates, mint marks, or errors. Consulting a coin expert or using a price guide can also help assess its value.
Are all rare pennies expensive?
Not all rare pennies are extremely expensive, but those with significant historical importance, unique errors, or low mintage often command higher prices.