Finding an extremely valuable penny in a jar or pocket can change your life. This guide lists the Top 7 Most Valuable Pennies in America, explains how to spot them, and gives realistic value ranges and tips for selling or grading.
Top 7 Most Valuable Pennies in America — quick overview
Below are seven pennies collectors and dealers most often name as the most valuable for U.S. coinage. Values depend on rarity, condition, and provenance. Use the identification tips to decide when to get a coin authenticated.
- 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent — mint error
- 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent — key date
- 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent — famous error
- 1914-D Lincoln Cent — scarce Denver mint issue
- 1793 Chain Cent — early large cent
- 1794 Liberty Cap or Draped Bust Large Cents — very rare early issues
- 1877 Indian Head Cent — scarce Indian Head variety
Detailed list of the Top 7 Most Valuable Pennies in America
1. 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent
Most 1943 cents are steel with zinc coating, made to conserve copper for WWII. A few were struck on bronze planchets by mistake and are extremely valuable.
Approximate value: high-grade, authenticated pieces have sold for hundreds of thousands to over $1 million.
Identification tips:
- Look for the warm brown color of copper rather than gray steel.
- Magnet test: steel cents are magnetic; copper cents are not. Do not rely on this alone — always get certification.
2. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB is a key date for Lincoln cents. It was produced in limited quantity and carries the initials of designer Victor D. Brenner on the reverse in that early run.
Approximate value: dozens of thousands for high-grade examples; lower grades are worth several thousand.
Identification tips: check for S mintmark and clear VDB on the reverse rim. High-grade pieces command premiums.
3. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
One of the most famous modern errors, the 1955 doubled die shows strong doubling on the obverse, notably the date and LIBERTY.
Approximate value: from a few thousand dollars in lower grades to $100,000+ for top certified mint state coins.
Identification tips: compare letters and numerals to an ordinary 1955 cent. Look for doubled features that are unmistakable at a glance.
4. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
The 1914-D is a recognized key date in the Lincoln series, with relatively low mintage and high collector demand.
Approximate value: circulated examples can be several hundred to a few thousand dollars; mint state pieces are worth far more.
Identification tips: check for the small Denver D mintmark under the date and assess strike and wear carefully.
5. 1793 Chain Cent
Among the earliest U.S. cents, the 1793 Chain Cent is a large cent and one of the most collectible early American coins.
Approximate value: well-preserved pieces can reach six figures or more, depending on variety and provenance.
Identification tips: size and weight differ from modern small cents; consult a specialist for early large cent authentication.
6. 1794 Liberty Cap and Draped Bust Large Cents
These early large cents are extremely rare and in constant demand by major collectors and museums.
Approximate value: prices vary widely; top examples can sell for high six or seven figures at auction.
Identification tips: condition, die variety, and documented provenance matter most for valuation.
7. 1877 Indian Head Cent
The 1877 Indian Head is a key date for the Indian Head series and is scarce in all grades.
Approximate value: circulated examples can be several hundred to thousands; high-grade certified coins are much more valuable.
Identification tips: examine the date carefully for strike weakness and consult price guides for grade-based values.
How to spot the Top 7 Most Valuable Pennies in America
Follow a simple process before assuming a penny is valuable. This saves time and helps avoid scams.
- Visually inspect the coin for obvious errors (doubling, wrong planchet, missing mintmark).
- Compare to reference images from reputable sources (PCGS, NGC, ANACS).
- Use a magnet only as a quick check for 1943 steel cents — it is not definitive.
- Get high-value candidates certified by a trusted third-party grading service.
Practical steps to sell or grade an expensive penny
If you think you own one of the Top 7 Most Valuable Pennies in America, follow these steps:
- Document the coin with high-resolution photos from multiple angles.
- Keep the coin in a protective holder to prevent handling damage.
- Seek an opinion from a reputable dealer or consign to a major auction house.
- Consider professional grading (PCGS, NGC) to maximize buyer trust and price.
Real-world example: a penny that made headlines
Case study: In 2010, a 1943 copper Lincoln cent authenticated and sold for over $1 million at auction. The coin was part of a private collection and had solid documentation and certification before sale.
Lesson: even a single well-documented penny, when rare and authenticated, can attract collectors willing to pay high prices.
Final tips for collectors and casual finders
Most found pennies are common and worth face value, but a careful eye can spot potential treasures. When in doubt, photograph, protect, and seek professional advice before selling.
Keeping realistic expectations and using trusted grading services are the best ways to get fair market value for any of the Top 7 Most Valuable Pennies in America.