Lincoln cents have circulated for more than a century and some rare examples still turn up in pocket change. This guide explains 11 Lincoln pennies worth watching for, how to identify them, and what steps to take if you find one.
Why rare Lincoln pennies matter
Collectors value Lincoln pennies for historic importance and identifiable errors or low mintage years. Rare Lincoln pennies can be modestly valuable or extremely valuable depending on condition and rarity.
How to spot rare Lincoln pennies
Look for a few key signs when examining a penny: visible mintmarks, doubled images, missing mintmarks, clear initial marks like VDB, and unusual surface details.
- Check the date and mintmark (near the rim on the obverse).
- Examine for doubling on the date or lettering (use a loupe).
- Compare the reverse for initials or missing designer marks.
- Note heavy wear — some rare dates appear worn because they circulated.
Top 11 rare Lincoln pennies still in circulation
The coins below are commonly cited by collectors as the most sought-after Lincoln cents that can still appear in circulation. Each entry includes identification tips and general rarity notes.
1. 1909-S VDB (Lincoln Head)
Identification: Look for VDB initials on the reverse at the bottom and an S mintmark on the obverse. This is one of the most famous key dates.
Why it’s rare: Low mintage and early production makes this variety scarce in circulated grades.
2. 1909 (VDB) Philadelphia
Identification: VDB initials on the reverse but no mintmark. The 1909 Philadelphia VDB is much scarcer than many later dates.
Why it’s rare: Early Lincoln cents had limited runs and the VDB initials were removed mid-year, making original VDB examples scarce.
3. 1909-S (no VDB)
Identification: S mintmark and no VDB on the reverse. This variety is scarcer than many other early cents though more common than the VDB version.
4. 1914-D
Identification: Date 1914 with a D mintmark on the obverse. The numerals can show wear, so check closely.
Why it’s rare: Low Denver mintage produces a key-date coin that collectors seek even in lower grades.
5. 1922 Plain (No D)
Identification: A 1922 Lincoln cent with no mintmark. These are the rare 1922 Philadelphia struck varieties that can be hard to spot because of heavy wear.
Why it’s rare: Many 1922 coins were overpolished or altered; genuine no-mintmark examples are uncommon.
6. 1931-S
Identification: 1931 date with an S mintmark. The S mintmark can be shallow on worn pieces.
Why it’s rare: Lower mintage at San Francisco makes the 1931-S a key date in circulated condition.
7. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse
Identification: Strong doubling on the date and the words LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST on the obverse. Doubling is pronounced and easy to see under magnification.
Why it’s rare: A striking error that produced bold doubling; well-known and sought after by collectors.
8. 1969-S Doubled Die (Proof Varieties and Mint Errors)
Identification: Some 1969-S proof and rare mint error varieties show doubling or unusual die characteristics. Proof pieces are usually distinguishable by mirror-like fields.
Why it’s rare: Most doubled dies were removed during production, making surviving circulation examples scarce.
9. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse
Identification: Doubling on date and lettering; look closely at the date and the motto for spread doubling.
Why it’s rare: Multiple doubled die varieties from the early 1970s are collectible because clear examples are uncommon in circulation.
10. 1984-2000 Error Pennies (Off-Center, Broadstruck, Repunched Mintmarks)
Identification: Mistakes like off-center strikes, broadstrikes, or strong repunched mintmarks are visible without magnification. These modern errors are often found by casual searchers.
Why they’re rare: Modern mint quality control catches most errors, but some escape and retain good value to collectors.
11. Modern Key Varieties and Low Mintage Proofs
Identification: Look for oddities, unusual toning, or specific proof mint markings. Modern low mintage issues sometimes appear in circulation after being dropped or misplaced.
Why they’re rare: Limited production or proof-only runs can produce unexpectedly valuable finds for those who check change carefully.
From 1909 to mid-1982 Lincoln cents were mostly 95% copper. After 1982 the U.S. Mint switched to a zinc core with a thin copper plating. That change makes pre-1982 cents heavier and often more desired by collectors.
What to do if you find a rare Lincoln penny
First, handle the coin carefully by its edges and avoid cleaning it. Cleaning reduces collector value. Next, use a loupe or take clear photos, then consult a reputable coin guide or dealer for identification.
- Document the coin with clear photos (obverse and reverse).
- Compare to reference images from trusted numismatic sources.
- If it looks valuable, consider professional grading or appraisal.
Small real-world example
A hobbyist found a worn 1955 doubled die among mixed change while sorting a jar. After verification by a local coin shop and professional grading, the coin sold at auction for a multiple of face value. This common scenario shows why periodic checks of old change can pay off.
Final tips for collectors hunting rare Lincoln pennies
Search old jars, register tapes, and rolls from coin machines. Focus on dates and mintmarks listed above and invest in a quality loupe and reference book. Build relationships with reputable dealers to verify finds and learn market values.
Finding a rare Lincoln penny requires patience and careful inspection, but even modest discoveries are rewarding for collectors and casual finders alike.
