Top 7 Most Valuable Pennies in America
Many common pennies are worth face value, but a few U.S. cents can be worth thousands or more. This guide lists seven of the most valuable pennies in America, explains why they are rare, and gives practical tips for identifying and selling them.
1. 1793 Chain Cent
The 1793 Chain Cent is one of the earliest large cents struck by the U.S. Mint. Surviving examples are extremely rare and highly sought by advanced collectors.
Why it’s valuable: early mintage, historical importance, and low surviving population. Condition drives price dramatically.
Typical value range: Tens of thousands to several hundred thousand dollars depending on grade and variety.
2. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB features designer Victor D. Brenner’s initials on the reverse. San Francisco mintage with VDB initials was limited and quickly pulled, creating a rarer variety.
Why it’s valuable: low mintage and strong demand from Lincoln cent collectors. Look for the bold VDB initials at the bottom of the reverse.
Typical value range: Hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars depending on grade.
3. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
The 1914-D is a low-mintage Denver strike and among the key dates for Lincoln cents. High-grade pieces are particularly scarce.
Why it’s valuable: low mintage and collector demand. Check the D mintmark under the date on the obverse.
Typical value range: Several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars in higher grades.
4. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
The 1955 doubled die obverse shows pronounced doubling on the date and the words IN GOD WE TRUST, LIBERTY, and the motto. This striking error is one of the most famous Lincoln cent varieties.
Why it’s valuable: strong visual doubling, collector recognition, and limited numbers in high grade. Authentication is critical, as counterfeits and less dramatic doubles exist.
Typical value range: Thousands to tens of thousands of dollars depending on the strength of the doubling and grade.
5. 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent
In 1943 most pennies were struck in zinc-coated steel because copper was reserved for the war effort. A few copper cents were mistakenly struck and those surviving pieces are extremely rare.
Why it’s valuable: an unexpected composition for the year and very low survival rate. Confirm composition—many fakes are copper-plated steel.
Typical value range: Tens of thousands to potentially over a hundred thousand dollars for verified, high-grade examples.
6. 1877 Indian Head Cent
The 1877 Indian Head cent has a low mintage and is a key date for the series. Even circulated examples can command significant premiums.
Why it’s valuable: rarity in the series and strong collector demand. The date is small and may be worn; careful inspection is needed.
Typical value range: Several hundred to several thousand dollars based on grade.
7. 1864 Indian Head Cent With L
The 1864 Indian Head cent with the designer’s initial L on the ribbon is a notable Civil War–era variety. Early issues without the L and later ones with the L can both be collectible, but the with-L types are more desirable.
Why it’s valuable: historical interest and recognized design variety. Look for the small L on the ribbon in the portrait.
Typical value range: Hundreds to several thousand dollars depending on condition and specific variety.
How to Identify and Verify Valuable Pennies
Finding a potential rare penny is exciting, but proper identification matters. Follow a simple checklist to avoid mistakes.
- Examine the date and mint mark under magnification for clarity.
- Look for known varieties: VDB initials, doubled dies, mintmarks in unusual places.
- Check metal composition if applicable, such as 1943 copper testing (magnet test and professional verification).
- Compare to certified images from PCGS or NGC and reference books.
Authentication and Grading
Professional grading by PCGS, NGC, or ANACS adds market trust and often increases sale price. Get a third-party authentication before advertising a very high-value coin.
Basic steps: careful cleaning is usually a NO; document provenance; get a grading opinion if you suspect a high-value piece.
In 1943 the U.S. Mint switched to steel cents to conserve copper for World War II. Genuine 1943 copper cents are extremely rare mistakes and must be carefully authenticated to rule out post-mint alterations.
Practical Tips for Selling or Keeping Rare Pennies
Decide whether to hold an important penny for long-term appreciation or sell now. Both choices have trade-offs.
- Get professional grading for high-value candidates.
- Obtain multiple price opinions from dealers and auction records.
- Sell at auction for maximum exposure or to a reputable dealer for convenience.
- Store certified coins in a cool, dry place and avoid cleaning ungraded coins.
Real-World Example
A small-town collector found what he thought was a 1955 doubled die in a jar of mixed coins. He took high-resolution photos and visited a local dealer who suggested professional grading. After submission and certification, the coin sold at auction for several thousand dollars, significantly more than its face value.
This case shows the value of authentication and market exposure for error and key-date pennies.
Final Checklist
If you think you have one of the top 7 most valuable pennies in America, follow these steps.
- Do not clean the coin.
- Photograph both sides clearly and note any unusual features.
- Compare with certified reference images and price guides.
- Seek a reputable dealer or submit to PCGS/NGC for grading.
- Consider insurance and secure storage for very high-value coins.
With careful identification and proper authentication, a single penny can turn into a meaningful find. Stay practical, verify claims, and rely on certified grading when amounts become significant.
