Lincoln cents, or Lincoln pennies, have been an essential part of U.S. currency since 1909. Over time, certain Lincoln cents have become highly sought after due to their rarity, minting errors, or historical importance.
For collectors, finding these valuable coins can be both exciting and rewarding. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 rare and valuable Lincoln cents, highlighting what makes each one special and offering tips on how to identify them.
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is among the most famous and coveted coins in the Lincoln penny series. This coin was produced in 1909, the first year of the Lincoln cent,
with only 484,000 coins minted. The “VDB” initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner, appear on the reverse side, making this coin highly valuable.
How to Identify:
- Date and Mint Mark: Look for the 1909 date and the “S” mint mark on the front of the coin.
- VDB Initials: Check the bottom of the reverse side for the “VDB” initials near the rim.
Estimated Value:
- Good Condition: $700 – $1,000
- Uncirculated Condition: Up to $2,500
2. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
The 1914-D Lincoln Cent is another key date coin that collectors highly prize. With only 1.2 million coins minted, it is among the rarer Lincoln cents.
How to Identify:
- Date and Mint Mark: Look for the 1914 date and the “D” mint mark for the Denver Mint.
- Condition: Coins with little wear are especially valuable.
Estimated Value:
- Good Condition: $200 – $400
- Uncirculated Condition: Up to $5,000
3. 1922 No D Lincoln Cent (Weak Reverse)
The 1922 No D Lincoln Cent is a unique error coin where the “D” mint mark was either omitted or struck so weakly that it is barely visible. Since this coin was only minted in Denver, the “No D” variety is particularly rare.
How to Identify:
- Date and Mint Mark: Check the 1922 date and look for the absence or weakness of the “D” mint mark.
- Reverse Side: Look for a weak or blurry reverse side, a feature of this error.
Estimated Value:
- Good Condition: $500 – $800
- Uncirculated Condition: Up to $25,000
4. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent is one of the rarest and most famous error coins. Due to World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to steel planchets, but a few bronze planchets from 1942 were accidentally used, making these coins extremely valuable.
How to Identify:
- Date: The coin should be dated 1943.
- Magnet Test: Unlike the common steel cents from that year, the bronze penny will not stick to a magnet.
Estimated Value:
- Good Condition: $100,000 – $200,000
- Uncirculated Condition: Up to $1.7 million
5. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is well-known for its dramatic doubling on the obverse side, especially on the date and inscriptions. This error is highly collectible and can fetch a high price, particularly in high-grade conditions.
How to Identify:
- Obverse Side: Look for clear doubling on the date “1955” and the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Magnification: Doubling is best seen under magnification.
Estimated Value:
- Good Condition: $1,000 – $1,500
- Uncirculated Condition: Up to $25,000
These five Lincoln cents are among the most sought-after by collectors due to their rarity, unique minting errors, or historical significance.
Knowing how to identify these coins and understanding their value can enhance any collection and offer potential financial rewards.
1. What makes Lincoln cents valuable?
Lincoln cents can be valuable due to their rarity, minting errors, or historical significance. Some coins are rare because fewer were made, or they have unique mistakes.
2. How can I identify a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent?
Look for the 1909 date and the “S” mint mark on the front. The “VDB” initials are on the reverse side, near the bottom rim.
3. What is a 1922 No D Lincoln Cent?
It’s an error coin where the “D” mint mark was missing or very weak. It’s rare and valuable because it was only supposed to be minted in Denver.
4. How do I check if a 1943 Lincoln Cent is bronze?
Check the date; it should be 1943. Use a magnet to test if the coin is bronze, as it won’t stick to a magnet unlike the steel cents from that year.
5. Why is the 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent special?
It’s famous for its clear doubling on the date and inscriptions. This error makes it highly collectible and valuable, especially in good condition.
