Lincoln pennies have been jingling in our pockets for over a century. While most are worth just a cent, a few rare and collectible ones are worth a whole lot more. Whether you’re a casual coin collector or just stumbled across an old penny in your change jar, knowing what to look for could literally pay off.
From famous error coins to limited mintage editions, here are the 10 most valuable Lincoln pennies to keep your eyes on in 2025.
1955 Doubled Die
One of the most iconic error coins in U.S. history, the 1955 Doubled Die penny features visible doubling on the date and lettering. It’s easy to spot—and highly collectible. In uncirculated condition, it can fetch up to $1,800.
1922 No D
Struck in Denver but mysteriously missing the “D” mint mark, the 1922 No D penny is a rare minting error. Only a limited number exist, making it a hot item for collectors. Value? Up to $15,000 in top condition.
1909-S VDB
The 1909-S VDB penny combines a low mintage with historical significance. It was the first year of the Lincoln cent and features the designer’s initials “VDB.” Only 484,000 were made, and high-grade examples are worth around $1,500.
1943 Copper Penny
The holy grail for many collectors, the 1943 Copper Penny shouldn’t even exist. Pennies that year were made of steel due to wartime shortages. A few copper blanks were accidentally used, and they’re now worth up to $100,000 or more.
1914-D
Minted in Denver, the 1914-D penny had a relatively low production run, making it highly desirable. In mint condition, this coin can be worth as much as $5,000.
1931-S
With only 866,000 coins minted, the 1931-S penny is another low-mintage gem. Depending on condition, it can be valued between $125 and $200.
1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
This rare coin features doubling on the obverse side (the date and lettering). Known as the 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse, it’s a tough find and can command up to $35,000 from serious collectors.
1917 Doubled Die Obverse
Another double-die treasure, the 1917 version shows noticeable doubling in the date. In excellent condition, it can bring in as much as $3,000.
1926-S
The 1926-S penny was minted in small numbers and is now valued up to $1,000 in high-grade condition. Not the rarest, but definitely one worth watching.
1944 Steel Penny
In a reverse of the 1943 situation, most 1944 pennies were copper, but a few steel blanks slipped through. These rare 1944 Steel Pennies can sell for up to $75,000.
| Coin Name | Year | Feature | Value | Known Specimens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1955 Doubled Die | 1955 | Doubled date & text | $1,800 | Limited |
| 1922 No D | 1922 | Missing mint mark “D” | $15,000 | Limited |
| 1909-S VDB | 1909 | Designer initials “VDB” | $1,500 | 484,000 |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | Copper composition | $100,000+ | Very few |
| 1914-D | 1914 | Low mintage | $5,000 | Limited |
| 1931-S | 1931 | Limited mintage | $200 | 866,000 |
| 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse | 1969 | Doubled obverse text | $35,000 | Limited |
| 1917 Doubled Die Obverse | 1917 | Doubled date | $3,000 | Limited |
| 1926-S | 1926 | Low mintage | $1,000 | Limited |
| 1944 Steel Penny | 1944 | Steel composition | $75,000 | Very few |
Final Thoughts
Collecting Lincoln pennies is more than a hobby—it’s a journey through American history. These rare and valuable coins remind us how small minting mistakes and limited runs can create huge value.
If you think you’ve found one of these treasures, it’s a good idea to get the coin authenticated and appraised by a professional. Sometimes, a single penny can turn out to be worth more than your entire coin jar combined.
So before you toss that old copper cent aside, take a second look—it might just be worth a fortune.
FAQs
Which Lincoln penny is worth the most?
The 1943 Copper Penny, worth up to $100,000.
What makes a penny valuable?
Minting errors, low mintage, and rare features.
Are old pennies always valuable?
Not always—most are worth only face value.
Where can I sell rare pennies?
Online marketplaces, coin shops, or auctions.
How do I know if my penny is rare?
Look for unusual dates, errors, or missing mint marks.
