Rare pennies from the 1900s are some of the most coveted and valuable coins among collectors and history enthusiasts alike. Often overlooked in everyday circulation, these unique coins have gained significant attention due to their scarcity, remarkable features, and historical importance. Some of these pennies can fetch astonishing prices, reaching up to $2 million, making them some of the most talked-about items in the numismatic world. Below is a look at six of the most exceptional pennies from the 1900s that every collector hopes to find.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny is one of the most iconic and rare coins in U.S. history. Released to celebrate Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, it features the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner, on the reverse side. With only 484,000 coins minted, its limited availability has contributed to its high value, making it a highly sought-after treasure.
1914-D Lincoln Penny The 1914-D Lincoln Penny, minted in Denver, is known for its extreme rarity. Only 1.2 million of these coins were produced, making it a prized piece for collectors. Coins in high-grade condition can command particularly high prices, often making headlines at auctions.
1922 No D Lincoln Penny The 1922 No D Lincoln Penny stands out due to an error made during production at the Denver Mint, where the “D” mint mark was accidentally omitted. This error has made the coin one of the rarest and most valuable pennies from the 1900s, with collectors willing to pay a premium for this unique mistake.
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny In 1943, the U.S. Mint switched to using steel for pennies due to copper shortages during World War II. However, a few copper planchets were mistakenly used, resulting in the rare 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny. With fewer than 20 known examples in existence, this coin is incredibly rare and highly prized by collectors, with some selling for millions.
1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny is another example of a striking error. The coin is characterized by noticeable doubling of the obverse text, particularly on the words “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.” This error has made it one of the most famous coins in U.S. numismatic history and a favorite among collectors. Its rarity and unique appearance make it worth a small fortune.
1909-S Indian Head Penny The 1909-S Indian Head Penny marks the end of the Indian Head series, making it a significant piece of American coinage history. With only 309,000 coins minted, it is an exceptionally rare find. The coin’s historical importance, coupled with its low mintage, makes it one of the most valuable pennies from the 1900s.
Coin Name | Year Minted | Key Feature | Estimated Value ($)
- 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny | 1909 | Designer’s Initials on Reverse | $1,000,000
- 1914-D Lincoln Penny | 1914 | Low Mintage | $400,000
- 1922 No D Lincoln Penny | 1922 | Missing Mint Mark | $1,200,000
- 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny | 1943 | Copper Planchet Error | $2,000,000
- 1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny | 1955 | Striking Error | $125,000
- 1909-S Indian Head Penny | 1909 | Last of Indian Head Series | $450,000
Collectors who are fortunate enough to discover these rare pennies are sitting on a gold mine. The combination of their historical significance, limited availability, and unique characteristics makes them some of the most valuable and sought-after coins in the numismatic world.