If you’re holding onto spare change, you might want to take a closer look—because a few rare Lincoln pennies still circulating today could be worth thousands, even millions. These valuable coins often go unnoticed in pockets and piggy banks, but for collectors and savvy finders, they represent hidden treasure.
Let’s explore five rare Lincoln cents you could still find in circulation that might just change your financial future.
1. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny
In 1943, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to zinc-coated steel to save copper for World War II. However, a few bronze (copper) planchets from 1942 were accidentally used in 1943, creating one of the rarest and most valuable Lincoln pennies.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Only a handful exist
- Sold for over $1 million at auction
- Can be identified with a magnet—steel cents stick, bronze ones don’t
2. 1955 Doubled Die Penny
This famous error penny shows strong doubling in the date and the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” It’s the result of a misalignment during the minting process.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Extremely rare and visually dramatic
- High-grade versions sell for $1,000 to $10,000+
- Still occasionally found in circulation or old coin jars
3. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny
Another dramatic doubled die error, this 1969 San Francisco-minted penny displays bold doubling on the obverse lettering.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Only a few hundred known to exist
- One sold for over $35,000
- Often confused with machine doubling—true doubling is bolder and cleaner
4. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Penny
This Lincoln cent is similar to the 1955 variety, with noticeable doubling in the text on the front of the coin. While not as rare, it’s still a hot find among collectors.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Doubling on “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date
- Mint condition coins can fetch $200 to $1,000+
- Easy to spot with the naked eye
5. 1992 Close AM Penny
On most 1992 Lincoln cents, the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse are spaced apart. On the rare “Close AM” variety, they’re nearly touching.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Less than 20 known examples
- One sold for $20,000+
- Only found on coins from the Philadelphia and Denver Mints
Table: Quick Reference – Rare Lincoln Pennies
| Year | Mint Mark | Key Feature | Estimated Value | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 | No/S/D | Bronze planchet | $100,000 – $1 million+ | Ultra rare |
| 1955 | No Mint | Doubled die obverse | $1,000 – $10,000+ | Rare |
| 1969 | S | Doubled die obverse | $10,000 – $35,000+ | Very rare |
| 1972 | No Mint | Doubled die obverse | $200 – $1,000+ | Uncommon |
| 1992 | No Mint/D | Close AM reverse | $5,000 – $25,000+ | Extremely rare |
Finding one of these pennies in your change isn’t easy—but it’s not impossible. They were once mass-produced and some still slip through into circulation or hide in old collections. Keep an eye out, especially in rolls of pennies from banks, or while sorting through inherited coin jars. A little attention to detail might reward you with a once-in-a-lifetime payday.
FAQs:
Are these rare pennies still in circulation?
Yes, though extremely rare, these coins can still be found in circulation or from old collections, estate sales, and bank rolls.
How do I know if I found a valuable penny?
Look for key details like doubling in the text or unusual spacing. You can also consult a coin expert or use online databases for verification.
What should I do if I think I found one?
Keep it safe, avoid cleaning it, and have it authenticated by a professional coin grading service like PCGS or NGC.