10 Of The Most Valuable Pennies

Are you curious if that old penny in your drawer could be worth a fortune? You’re not alone. While most pennies are only worth one cent, a rare few are highly valuable due to their history, minting errors, and limited availability. In fact, some of these pennies have sold for hundreds of thousands—and even millions—of dollars at auction.

From wartime mistakes like the 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny to early American classics like the 1793 Strawberry Leaf Cent, these coins are more than just pocket change—they’re prized treasures. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just starting out, understanding what makes a penny valuable can turn your hobby into a profitable adventure. This article will walk you through 10 of the most valuable pennies ever sold, with prices, history, and what to look for. You might just find out that your small coin has big potential.

1. 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Wheat Penny — $2.3 Million

The 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Wheat Penny is often hailed as the most valuable penny ever sold. During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from using copper to zinc-coated steel for pennies to save copper for war materials. However, a few bronze planchets from 1942 were accidentally left in the coin presses and struck in 1943.

Most of these errors happened at the Philadelphia and San Francisco mints, but the Denver mint (marked with a “D”) is the rarest of all. Only one known example of the 1943-D Bronze Penny exists, making it a one-of-a-kind collector’s dream. In 2010, this penny was sold for a record $1.7 million and was later valued at over $2.3 million. Its unique composition, incredible rarity, and connection to American history make it a centerpiece for elite numismatists. This penny is considered the “Holy Grail” among rare coins.

2. 1944-S Steel Wheat Penny — $1.1 Million

Another wartime error, the 1944-S Steel Wheat Penny is an unusual coin minted by mistake. In 1944, the U.S. Mint resumed producing pennies using copper. However, a few leftover steel planchets from 1943 mistakenly made their way into the presses at the San Francisco Mint. Unlike the common copper 1944 pennies, the 1944-S Steel Penny has a silvery appearance.

Only two or three examples are confirmed to exist today, making this coin exceptionally rare and highly valuable. One specimen sold for $1.1 million in a private sale. Collectors prize this coin not only for its scarcity but also for its historical significance as a World War II-era error. Its value continues to rise due to its uniqueness and limited availability. For any collector hoping to own a part of minting history, this penny represents a rare and exciting opportunity.

3. 1793 Strawberry Leaf Cent — $862,500

The 1793 Strawberry Leaf Cent is one of the earliest coins ever minted by the United States and is part of the legendary Flowing Hair Large Cent series. What makes this penny incredibly valuable is not just its age but also its rarity and distinctive design. The reverse side features a unique strawberry leaf detail on the wreath, distinguishing it from other 1793 cents.

Only four known specimens exist today, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins in existence. In 2009, one of these coins was sold at auction for $862,500. The coin is not only prized for its age but also for its artistic and historical value, representing one of the earliest attempts at national coinage in the U.S. With its historical importance and extreme rarity, the 1793 Strawberry Leaf Cent is a coveted piece in early American numismatics.

4. 1943-S Lincoln Cent Struck on Bronze — $282,000

The 1943-S Lincoln Cent struck on a bronze planchet is another extremely rare and valuable error coin from World War II. As with the 1943-D version, this mistake occurred when bronze planchets from the previous year were accidentally used instead of the steel ones mandated for 1943. What makes this coin even more special is that it was struck at the San Francisco Mint, which adds another layer of rarity.

Only a handful of these coins are known to exist today. One such example sold at auction for $282,000. Collectors value this penny not only because of its mistake but also because of its high-quality strike and excellent preservation. These factors combined make it a standout among error coins. Its historical context and production mistake make the 1943-S Bronze Cent a prized treasure for any collector of American coins.

5. 1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny — $258,000

The 1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny is notable for several reasons. It was the first year that the Lincoln cent was issued, replacing the Indian Head penny. The initials “VDB” on the reverse stand for Victor David Brenner, the coin’s designer. Only 1,194 matte proof versions were produced, and these coins have a distinctive satin-like finish not seen in regular circulation pieces.

Collectors cherish the 1909 VDB Matte Proof not only for its beauty and detail but also for its historical value. The controversy over Brenner’s initials led to their removal later that year, adding to the rarity of the coin. In top condition, one such coin has fetched as much as $258,000 at auction. Because of its limited mintage, superb craftsmanship, and place in coinage history, this penny holds a revered spot among collectors and investors alike.

6. 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Cent — $224,831

The 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Cent is one of the most famous doubled die error coins known to collectors. This type of error occurs when the coin die is misaligned, resulting in a noticeable doubling of the design elements, particularly on the date and lettering. Only three authentic examples of the 1958 doubled die penny are known to exist, which makes it extraordinarily rare.

One of these coins sold for $224,831 at auction. Unlike more common doubled die pennies like the 1955 version, the 1958 error is scarcely seen on the market. The sharpness of the doubling and the mystery surrounding its limited release make this coin particularly attractive to error coin specialists. With so few examples known, the 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Cent remains one of the most valuable and desired Lincoln cents in the hobby.

7. 1856 Flying Eagle Cent — $172,500

The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent is a historic and valuable coin that marked a significant shift in American coinage. Before this, large cents were the standard, but the Flying Eagle design introduced a smaller, more practical penny. The 1856 version was technically a pattern coin intended to demonstrate the new size and design to Congress, but over 1,000 pieces were struck and distributed to collectors and officials.

Because of this limited mintage, the 1856 Flying Eagle is considered a key date in numismatics. High-grade examples have been known to sell for up to $172,500. The coin features a soaring eagle on the obverse and a wreath on the reverse, showcasing exceptional artistry for the time. Its place as a transitional coin and its scarcity make it a must-have for serious collectors of U.S. cents.

8. 1864 Indian Head Penny “L” on Ribbon — $161,000

The 1864 Indian Head Penny with the “L” on the ribbon is a rare and significant variation. Designed by James B. Longacre, this penny marks the first time his initial “L” was subtly added to the ribbon in the headdress of the Native American figure. It also coincides with a change in the metal composition from copper-nickel to bronze, making the “L” version even more desirable.

These pennies are rare in high-grade condition and sought after by collectors who specialize in Indian Head cents. One pristine example sold for as much as $161,000. This coin represents a key transition in both design and material, making it an important piece in U.S. numismatic history. The “L” is barely visible, but its presence is a marker of rarity and added value to those who know what to look for.

9. 1914-D Lincoln Penny — $159,000

The 1914-D Lincoln Penny is one of the most sought-after key dates in the entire Lincoln cent series. Minted in Denver, the coin had a relatively low mintage of only 1.2 million, and many were heavily circulated, making high-quality examples extremely rare. This penny is especially valued when found in mint-state condition, where it can command prices of up to $159,000.

Many fakes and altered coins exist due to its popularity, so authenticated and graded versions are a must for serious collectors. The 1914-D is part of the early years of the Lincoln cent, adding to its historical and collectible value. This coin holds a strong reputation among collectors as a “must-have” for completing a Lincoln set and continues to increase in value due to its scarcity and demand.

10. 1926-S Lincoln Penny — $149,500

The 1926-S Lincoln Penny is another rare coin with a low mintage and poor original strike quality, which makes high-grade specimens extremely hard to find. Struck in San Francisco, fewer than 5 million of these pennies were minted, and most entered heavy circulation. Very few were preserved in uncirculated condition, making mint-state examples exceedingly rare.

One such coin sold for $149,500 at auction. The rarity of this coin in high grade is the main reason for its high value. While it’s not an error or a design change, the 1926-S is proof that even regular-issue coins can become incredibly valuable if few survive in top condition. Collectors of the Lincoln series prize this penny for its scarcity and the challenge it presents in assembling a complete high-grade set.

Bottom Line

While most pennies are common, a rare few can be worth a life-changing amount. Coins like the 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny and the 1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny prove that minting mistakes and historical significance can create incredible value. If you come across an old penny, it’s worth taking a closer look—it could be more than just spare change. Collectors and investors alike prize these rare coins for their rarity, condition, and backstory. So whether you’re new to collecting or simply curious, learning about these valuable pennies might just help you spot a hidden gem.

FAQs