Some pennies have come to be uncommon gemstones at some stage in the records of U.S. Coinage, enchanting numismatists and collectors with their rarity and unique traits. Because they’re so valuable, these first rate coins often fetch charges over $35,000. An examination of nine of these uncommon pennies, each with a fascinating backstory, is provided below.
VDB 1909-S Penny Lincoln
The reverse side of the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny, which was struck in San Francisco, bears the designer’s initials, “VDB,” which set it apart. These initials were removed off later coins as a result of public outrage over their inclusion. This penny is rare, with just 484,000 produced, and well-preserved specimens can sell for up to $168,000.
1943 Bronze Lincoln penny.
During World War II, America Mint switched to zinc-covered metal for penny manufacture to conserve copper. However, some bronze planchets from 1942 remained, resulting in the improvement of the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny. These mistake coins are extremely rare, with values of up to $500,000.
The Lincoln Penny Doubled Die in 1955
Due to a minting mistakes, the 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny has a awesome duplication of the date and inscriptions at the obverse. Because of this rarity, it’s miles in remarkable call for and can cost as much as $1,800.
1944 Steel Lincoln Penny

Steel Lincoln Penny, 1944 Even though the Mint had switched back to using copper in 1944, some steel planchets from the year before were inadvertently used. Due to this mistake, there are only roughly seven known examples of the 1944 Steel Lincoln Penny. Its enormous worth was demonstrated in 2021 when one of these coins sold for $10.7 million.
1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny
Lincoln Penny, VDB Matte Proof, 1909 The first year of the Lincoln Cent series produced a special edition, the 1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny. “VDB,” the designer’s initials, are printed on the back of it. Because there are so few of these coins, they are extremely precious and can fetch up to $258,500 at auction.
1969-S Lincoln Penny Doubled Die Obverse
There is noticeable doubling on the obverse of the 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny, which alters the date and inscriptions. This coin is uncommon, with only about 30 known examples; well-preserved specimens have been valued at about $37,200.
1943-S Lincoln Cent Struck on Bronze Planchet
S. Lincoln Cent Hit on Bronze Plate in 1943 The 1943-S Lincoln Cent was struck on a bronze planchet rather than the intended steel, just like its Denver counterpart. There aren’t many of these coins; in 2016, one sold for $282,000.
Lincoln Penny, 1914-D

The Denver-minted 1914-D Lincoln Penny is unique for producing only 1.2 million coins. Because of its rarity, well-preserved copies might fetch up to $2,200.
No D Lincoln Penny, 1922
Some 1922 pennies are made in Denver and do not have the “D” mintmark because of a die fault. In perfect condition, these “No D” coins can fetch up to $6,000, making them extremely valuable.
Conclusion
These nine rare pennies are a good example of the intriguing realm of coin collecting, where scarcity, history, and error combine to produce remarkably valuable objects. Whether due to limited production or minting errors, every coin has a distinct tale that appeals to both collectors and aficionados. Those who are lucky enough to come upon such a penny see it as a tangible link to America’s rich numismatic history in addition to its symbolic value. “
Notice: These figures are estimates that may change depending on the coin’s provenance, market demand, and condition. For accurate assessments, speaking with qualified numismatists or coin dealers is advised.
FAQs
1. What makes the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny so valuable?
Its low mintage of 484,000 and the inclusion of designer “VDB” initials make this penny rare and highly collectible. Well-preserved examples can be worth up to $168,000.
2. Why is the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny rare?
Minted in error using leftover bronze during WWII, it’s one of the most sought-after Lincoln cents. Only a few exist, with values reaching up to $500,000.
3. What is special about the 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny?
This coin features a clear doubling of the date and inscriptions due to a minting error. Its rarity makes it worth as much as $1,800 to collectors.