6 Rare Pennies Worth Over $800,000: Rare pennies are a treasure to coin collectors as they symbolize history, art, and incredible value. Most pennies are ordinary currency, but there are some that stand out because they had been minted with errors, were produced in low numbers, or had features that made them special. These characteristics make them desired, and many of these are worth as much as hundreds of thousands of dollars. Let us look at 6 of the most useful and desirable pennies and what makes them so valuable.
The 1909-S V.D.B.
American pennies don’t get much more special than the 1909-S V.D.B. Wheat penny. Produced in San Francisco and only a scant 484,000 pieces minted. The letters “VDB” are found, associated with designer Victor David Brenner. Shortly after production began, the initials on these were, thankfully, removed, making these coins extremely rare indeed. However, it can be purchased in perfect condition and sold for up to $800,000, making it a collector’s dream.
Key Features:
- Value: Up to $800,000
- Minting: 484,000
- Unique Features: Limited production, VDB initials
1943 Copper
Although a mistake, the 1943 Copper Wheat Penny had a special use in World War II. Most of the pennies issued that year were steel cents to conserve copper, and a handful of copper blanks were minted, though they weren’t sold. Only a few dozen are known to exist, and one of these pennies sold for more than $200,000.
Key Features:
- Value: Over $200,000
- Minting: A few dozen
- Unique Features: Steel production accidentally using copper
1944 Steel
The U.S. Mint resumed copper production in pennies in 1944 after the war, but some of the steel blanks from the previous year were inadvertently recycled in 1943. The 1944 Steel Wheat Penny was produced from this error and can be worth $100,000-plus depending on condition.
Key Features:
- Value: $100,000+
- Minting: A few dozen
- Unique Features: After the copper production resumed, a steel blank error struck.
1914-D
The 1914-D Wheat Penny was minted in Denver and is rare because it has an extremely low mintage of 1.2 million coins. But it is especially difficult to find in high-grade condition, which has helped push its selling price over $100,000. It’s still a cherished rarity among collectors.
Key Features:
- Value: $100,000+
- Minting: 1.2 million
- Unique Features: Rarity in high-grade condition with low mintage
1922 No D
The 1922 No D Wheat Penny is unique because of a minting error. That year all pennies were minted in Denver, but some without a “D” mintmark. These coins have become collectors favorites due to this error, and high-quality examples are worth prices of over $90,000 or more.
Key Features:
- Value: $90,000+
- Minting: A few thousand
- Unique Features: Missing Denver mintmark
1955 Doubled Die
Known for its dramatic doubling error on the date and letters, the 1955 Doubled Die Wheat Penny is famous. It’s become a favorite with enthusiasts for its noticeable visual abnormality. Depending on how clear the doubling is and the condition of the coin, it could be valued anywhere from $125,000 to $200,000.
Key Features:
- Value: $125,000+
- Minting: Estimated 20,000
- Unique Features: Date and letters doubling effect
Important Tips
If you think you might have a valuable penny, then:
- Check for specific qualities: Look for errors, missing mintmarks, or unusual doublings.
- Check for authenticity: Consult official coin guides or appraisal experts.
- Check for condition: Coins in unblemished, uncirculated condition fetch the highest prices.
Each of these rare pennies offers a glimpse into the history and craftsmanship of coin production. Whether you’re an avid collector or a beginner, these coins are treasures worth seeking out.
FAQs
Q. Why is the 1909-S V.D.B. penny so valuable?
A. Because of the limited minting and the “VDB” initials that were removed shortly after production.
Q. What characterizes the 1943 Copper Wheat Penny?
A. Copper blanks were accidentally used during World War II.
Q. What is the significance of the 1944 Steel Wheat Penny?
A. Steel blanks were accidentally used after copper production resumed.
Q. What is special about the 1922 No D Wheat Penny?
A. Some pennies from that year were minted without a “D” mintmark.
Q. What characterizes the 1955 Doubled Die Penny?
A. It’s a dramatic doubling error that occurs on the date and letters.
