Have you ever checked your pocket change and wondered if a simple penny could be worth thousands – or even millions? Most pennies are just worth one cent, but a few rare pennies from the twentieth century have turned ordinary people into instant millionaires. These tiny copper coins hold huge value because of mint mistakes, low production numbers, or historical importance.
In this guide, we’ll show you the 9 rare pennies that collectors fight over. We’ll explain why they’re special, how much they’ve sold for, and simple tips to spot them in your change or old jars. No fancy words – just clear facts even a beginner can understand.
Why Some Pennies Are Worth a Fortune
Pennies are made at government mints in places like Philadelphia (no letter mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). Sometimes, workers made errors. Other times, only a few coins were made. These “oops” moments or limited runs create rare pennies that collectors love.
A perfect example? The 1943 bronze penny. During World War II, pennies were made of steel to save copper for the war. But a few bronze ones slipped through – and today, one sold for $1.7 million.
Top 9 Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
Here are the 9 rare pennies every coin hunter should know. We’ve included the year, why it’s rare, and real sale prices.
| Year | Coin Name | Why It’s Rare | Highest Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | Lincoln Wheat Penny | Only 484,000 made; “VDB” initials caused controversy | $1,700,000 |
| 1914-D | Lincoln Penny | Just 1.2 million minted in Denver | $300,000+ |
| 1922 No D | Lincoln Penny | Mint mark missing due to die error | $150,000+ |
| 1931-S | Lincoln Penny | Only 866,000 made during Great Depression | $200,000+ |
| 1943 Bronze | Lincoln Penny | Made by mistake in bronze instead of steel | $1,700,000 |
| 1944 Steel | Lincoln Penny | Steel planchet used by accident | $375,000 |
| 1955 Double Die | Lincoln Penny | Words and date look doubled from printing error | $125,000 |
| 1969-S Double Die | Lincoln Penny | Clear doubling on “LIBERTY” and date | $125,000+ |
| 1972 Double Die | Lincoln Penny | Strong doubling on front; easy to spot with magnifying glass | $15,000+ |
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny – The First Rare Penny
This was the first Lincoln penny ever made with Abraham Lincoln’s face. The “S” means San Francisco mint, and “VDB” are the designer’s initials on the back. People complained about the initials, so they were removed fast. Only 484,000 were made.
Worth today: Up to $1.7 million in perfect condition.
2. 1914-D Lincoln Penny – Tiny Mint Run
Denver made just 1.2 million of these. Most got worn out in circulation. Finding one in great shape is like winning the lottery.
Worth today: Over $300,000.
3. 1922 No D Lincoln Penny – The Missing Mint Mark
This penny was made in Denver, but the “D” mint mark disappeared because of a worn-out stamping tool. It’s a famous error coin.
Worth today: Up to $150,000+.
4. 1931-S Lincoln Penny – Depression-Era Rarity
During the Great Depression, money was tight. San Francisco made only 866,000 pennies that year – one of the lowest ever.
Worth today: Around $200,000 in top condition.
1943 Bronze Penny – The Million-Dollar Mistake
In 1943, pennies were steel – not copper. But a few bronze blanks got mixed in by accident. Fewer than 20 are known.
Worth today: $1.7 million (record sale in 2010).
1944 Steel Penny – The Reverse Error
In 1944, pennies went back to copper. But some steel blanks from 1943 were used by mistake.
Worth today: Up to $375,000.
7. 1955 Double Die Penny – Looks Like Two Coins in One
A machine error made the date and words look doubled. It’s easy to spot – even without a magnifying glass.
Worth today: Up to $125,000.
8. 1969-S Double Die – Hidden in Plain Sight
This San Francisco penny has strong doubling on “LIBERTY” and the date. Many were spent as regular change!
Worth today: Over $125,000.
1972 Double Die – The Easiest Rare Penny to Find
Another doubling error – but more were made. Still super valuable if you find one in good shape.
Worth today: Up to $15,000+.
How to Spot Rare Pennies in Your Change
You don’t need to be an expert. Here’s what to do:
- Check the year – Focus on 1909–1958 (wheat backs) and error years like 1955, 1969, 1972.
- Look for mint marks – Under the date: “S” (San Francisco), “D” (Denver), or none (Philadelphia).
- Search for errors – Doubling? Missing letters? Wrong metal?
- Use a magnifying glass – Small details matter.
- Never clean coins – Scrubbing removes value.
Where to Sell Your Rare Penny
Found one? Don’t spend it! Take it to:
- Coin dealers (get multiple opinions)
- Auction houses like Heritage Auctions
- eBay (only if certified by PCGS or NGC)
Get your coin graded by PCGS or NGC. A “Mint State 65” grade can multiply value 10x.
Final Thoughts: Your Pocket Change Could Change Your Life
Most pennies are worthless – but rare pennies like the 1909-S VDB or 1943 bronze can be worth hundreds of thousands. One man found a 1943 bronze penny in his dad’s old jar and sold it for $204,000.
Start checking your change, old jars, and attic boxes. You never know – the next million-dollar penny might be in your hands right now.