1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny

This coin was minted in San Francisco to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. It was designed by Victor David Brenner, whose initials "V.D.B." appear on the reverse. However, controversy over the initials led to their removal shortly after production began, making this penny a rare collector's item.

Penny collecting is a fascinating hobby, and some coins are worth far more than their face value. Certain rare pennies have become highly valuable due to their low mintage, historical significance, and unique minting errors.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, knowing about these valuable pennies could lead to an exciting finding. Let’s take a closer look at five of the rarest and most valuable pennies in U.S. history.

The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Penny is one of the most sought-after coins in numismatics. This coin was minted in San Francisco to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It was designed by Victor David Brenner, whose initials “V.D.B.” appear on the reverse. However, controversy over the initials led to their removal shortly after production began, making this penny a rare collector’s item.

With only 484,000 minted, this penny is highly valuable and ranges in price from $600 in lower grades to over $10,000 for a coin in pristine uncirculated condition.

The 1914-D Lincoln Penny is another key date coin that collectors actively seek. Unlike error coins, this penny is valuable due to its low mintage. It was minted in Denver, and because few were saved in high grades, finding one in uncirculated condition is extremely rare.

Only 1.1 million of this penny were minted, making it harder to find than other Lincoln pennies. In top uncirculated grades, this coin can sell for up to $10,000.

The 1922 No D Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous error pennies in U.S. history. All pennies in 1922 were supposed to be minted in Denver and have a “D” mint mark. However, due to die overuse and excessive polishing, some coins were struck without the mint mark, creating this rare variety.

Because of its rarity, this penny can command high prices, especially in higher grades. Mint State 67 examples have sold for over $150,000.

The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny is one of the most recognized and famous error coins. A misalignment in the die used to strike the obverse caused a noticeable doubling of the date and inscriptions. This error was released into circulation before being detected, making it a prized collector’s item.

Due to its dramatic doubling effect and relative scarcity, this penny is in high demand. In MS65 grade, this coin can sell for over $1,000.

The 1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny is another error coin that has become highly valuable. Like the 1955 version, this coin features a striking double die error, but it is far rarer. For years, counterfeit versions of this penny circulated, making authentication essential.

This rare penny could be worth over $1 million, making it one of the most valuable coins in the U.S.

Rare pennies could be hiding in your pocket change, coin jars, or old collections. Finding one of these valuable coins could be a life-changing discovery. If you think you have a rare penny, consider getting it authenticated by a professional coin grading service.

Whether it’s the historic 1909-S V.D.B. penny or the legendary 1955 Double Die, these small copper coins prove that a penny saved could be a penny earned—many times over.