Top 11 Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century

Top 11 Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century: The twentieth century saw the production of some of the most sought-after pennies in U.S. history. While most pennies are only worth their one-cent face value, certain rare varieties can fetch thousands—even millions—of dollars due to low mintages, minting errors, and historical significance. These coins continue to captivate collectors and investors alike.

If you’re lucky, you might find one of these rare pennies still in circulation or hidden away in a collection. Here’s a look at the top 11 rare pennies of the twentieth century and what makes them so valuable.

1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny

The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous rare pennies in American history. It was the first year of the Lincoln cent series, and designer Victor David Brenner’s initials (VDB) were prominently placed on the reverse.

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• Why It’s Rare: The San Francisco Mint produced only 484,000 before the design was changed to remove the initials.
• Value: $800 – $100,000+, depending on condition.

1914-D Lincoln Penny

The 1914-D Lincoln Penny is a key date in the series, with a low mintage of just 1,193,000. Many were heavily circulated, making high-quality examples extremely rare.

• Why It’s Rare: Very few survived in uncirculated condition.
• Value: $300 – $200,000+, depending on grade.

1922 No D (Plain) Lincoln Penny

In 1922, all Lincoln pennies were supposed to have a “D” mintmark (Denver Mint). However, a die error resulted in some coins missing the mintmark entirely.

• Why It’s Rare: The only “No Mintmark” Lincoln cent from the Denver Mint.
• Value: $1,000 – $80,000+, depending on condition.

1931-S Lincoln Penny

The 1931-S Lincoln Penny had a very low mintage of 866,000, one of the lowest in the entire Lincoln cent series. Many collectors hoarded them, but finding an uncirculated example today is still very difficult.

• Why It’s Rare: Low mintage and collector interest.
• Value: $50 – $85,000+, depending on grade.

1943 Copper Penny

During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to zinc-coated steel to conserve resources. However, a few 1943 pennies were mistakenly struck in copper, making them one of the most valuable U.S. coins ever.

• Why It’s Rare: Only around 40 known to exist.
• Value: $100,000 – $1,700,000+, depending on condition.

1944 Steel Penny

In 1944, the Mint returned to using copper for pennies. However, a few 1944 pennies were accidentally struck on leftover steel planchets from 1943, making them incredibly rare.

• Why It’s Rare: Only about 30 known.
• Value: $75,000 – $500,000+, depending on grade.

1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny

The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. The doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” is extremely noticeable.

• Why It’s Rare: Clear and dramatic doubling, making it highly sought after.
• Value: $1,500 – $125,000+, based on grade.

1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Penny

The 1969-S Doubled Die Penny features one of the strongest doubling effects ever seen on a U.S. coin.

• Why It’s Rare: Very few exist, as most were mistakenly destroyed by the Mint.
• Value: $25,000 – $75,000+, depending on grade.

1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny

The 1970-S Small Date Penny is a rare variety that can be identified by the shallow strike of the date and the high “7” in “1970.”

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• Why It’s Rare: Low numbers minted and difficult to find in high grades.
• Value: $200 – $3,500+, depending on condition.

1983 Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Penny

The 1983 Lincoln Penny features strong doubling on the reverse side, particularly in “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”

• Why It’s Rare: One of the strongest modern doubled die errors.
• Value: $500 – $7,000+, depending on grade.

1992-D Close AM Lincoln Penny

The 1992-D Close AM Penny is a transitional error where the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are touching, which was meant for 1993 pennies.

• Why It’s Rare: A transitional error that shouldn’t exist.
• Value: $5,000 – $25,000+, depending on condition.

How to Identify a Rare Penny

Here’s what to look for when checking your pennies:

1. Date and Mintmark: Some years and mints are more valuable than others.
2. Doubled Die Errors: Look for clear doubling in letters and numbers.
3. Metal Composition: Weighing a penny can help determine if it’s made of the wrong material.
4. Coin Condition: Higher grades are worth more—look for minimal wear.

Where to Sell a Rare Penny

If you find a rare penny, here’s where to sell it:

• Auction Houses: Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers.
• Coin Dealers: Reputable numismatic dealers.
• Online Marketplaces: eBay, GreatCollections.
• Coin Shows & Expos: Great for connecting with collectors.

Table – Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century

The twentieth century produced some of the most valuable and fascinating pennies in U.S. history. Whether it’s the legendary 1943 Copper Penny, the 1955 Doubled Die, or the elusive 1992-D Close AM, these coins continue to be in high demand among collectors.

FAQs

What is the rarest penny of the twentieth century?
The 1943 Copper Penny is the rarest, with some selling for $1.7 million+.

How do I know if my penny is valuable?
Check for rare dates, mint errors, metal composition, and coin condition.

Can I still find rare pennies in circulation?
Yes! Coins like the 1992-D Close AM and 1983 Doubled Die Reverse have been found in pocket change.

Where should I get my rare penny appraised?
Visit certified coin dealers, auction houses, or use grading services like PCGS or NGC.

Are rare pennies a good investment?
Yes! Key date pennies and error coins often appreciate in value over time.