Collecting coins can be a fun hobby, and pennies are a great place to start. While most pennies are just worth one cent, some are rare and valuable. This article will cover the eight best pennies for collectors, explaining what makes them special and why you might want to find them. Whether you’re just starting or have been collecting for a while, knowing about these unique pennies can help you grow your collection.
The 8 Best Pennies for Collectors
| Penny | Year | Mint Mark | Details | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S V.D.B. Penny | 1909 | S | Only 484,000 minted; features designer’s initials “V.D.B.” on the back. | Thousands of dollars |
| 1914-D Penny | 1914 | D | About 1.1 million minted; low production number makes it very valuable. | Hundreds to thousands of dollars |
| 1955 Double Die Penny | 1955 | None | Features noticeable doubling on the date and lettering due to a minting error. | Hundreds to thousands of dollars |
| 1969-S Double Die Penny | 1969 | S | Similar error as the 1955 penny; causes doubling on the front. | Thousands of dollars |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | None | Mistakenly made of copper instead of zinc-coated steel during WWII; very rare. | Tens of thousands of dollars |
| 1970-S Penny | 1970 | S | Not released into circulation; mostly found in special sets. | Hundreds of dollars |
| 1983 Copper Penny | 1983 | None | A few copper pennies made when the U.S. Mint switched to zinc; very rare. | Several hundred dollars |
| 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Pennies | 2009 | None | Four designs celebrating Lincoln’s 200th birthday; popular among collectors. | Varies; can be worth a good amount |
1. 1909-S V.D.B. Penny
The 1909-S V.D.B. penny is one of the most famous and valuable pennies. It was made in San Francisco, and only 484,000 were minted. This coin features the initials “V.D.B.” on the back, which stands for Victor David Brenner, the coin’s designer. Because it is so rare, this penny can be worth thousands of dollars, especially if it is in good condition.
2. 1914-D Penny
The 1914-D penny is another highly sought-after coin. Minted in Denver, only about 1.1 million were made. Its low production number makes it valuable to collectors. Depending on its condition, this penny can be worth several hundred to thousands of dollars.
3. 1955 Double Die Penny
The 1955 double die penny is famous for a mistake made during its minting. This coin has a noticeable doubling on the front, especially on the date and lettering. Because of this error, only a limited number were produced, and collectors love it. Depending on its condition, this penny can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
4. 1969-S Double Die Penny
The 1969-S double die penny also features a minting error that causes doubling on the front. While it is not as common as the 1955 double die, it is still very popular among collectors. If you find one in good condition, it can also be worth a lot of money, sometimes in the thousands.
5. 1943 Copper Penny
The 1943 copper penny is unique because it was meant to be made of zinc-coated steel due to metal shortages during World War II. However, a small number of copper pennies were accidentally minted that year. These rare coins can be worth tens of thousands of dollars, making them one of the most valuable pennies ever made.
6. 1970-S Penny
The 1970-S penny is valuable because it was not released into circulation. Only a few were produced, and it is mostly found in special sets. Collectors seek this penny due to its rarity, and it can be worth hundreds of dollars, depending on its condition.
7. 1983 Copper Penny
The 1983 copper penny is another rare find. In 1982, the U.S. Mint switched to zinc pennies, but a few copper ones were still made. If you find a 1983 penny that is copper instead of zinc, it could be worth several hundred dollars. Collectors often search for this coin because of its unusual composition.
8. 2009 Lincoln Bicentennial Pennies
The 2009 Lincoln bicentennial pennies were released to celebrate Lincoln’s 200th birthday. There are four different designs representing different stages of his life. While they may not be as valuable as the older pennies, they are still popular among collectors and can be worth a good amount, especially in uncirculated condition.
Conclusion
Collecting pennies can be an exciting and rewarding hobby, especially when you know which coins are the most valuable. The eight pennies listed above are some of the best options for collectors, each with its unique history and value. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced collector, keeping an eye out for these special pennies can lead to some great finds. Remember, the value of a coin depends on its rarity and condition, so always check for details when you’re hunting for coins. Collecting can teach you a lot about history and money while also giving you the thrill of finding something unique!
FAQ’s
What makes certain pennies valuable?
Certain pennies are valuable due to their rarity, minting errors, or historical significance. For example, pennies with low mintage numbers or those with unique designs often attract collectors and can be worth much more than their face value.
How can I tell if I have a rare penny?
To determine if you have a rare penny, check for mint marks, the year it was made, and any visible errors, such as doubling. You can also compare your penny to reference books or online guides that list valuable pennies and their characteristics.
Where can I sell my valuable pennies?
You can sell valuable pennies through online auction sites like eBay, at coin shows, or through local coin dealers. Make sure to research their value first, so you know what price to expect.