Most people don’t think twice about pennies. They’re usually left in jars, dropped under couches, or handed back as change and forgotten.
But what if one of those little copper coins was actually worth thousands—or even millions? That’s exactly the case with a few rare Lincoln pennies.
One recently sold for over $200,000, and others might be worth much more. So before you say “keep the change,” maybe take a closer look.
Auctioned
In January, a 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny sold for $204,000 at Heritage Auctions. The coin originally belonged to Don Lutes Jr., who received it in his high school cafeteria back in 1947. He was just 16 at the time and had no idea what he was holding onto.
Lutes kept the coin until he passed away in 2018. In poor health, he decided to consign it to auction. The money from the sale went to the Berkshire Athenaeum in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. With nearly 30 bids, this “ordinary-looking” penny became the star of the auction world.
History
During World War II, the U.S. Mint needed copper for the war effort. So in 1943, they made pennies from zinc-coated steel instead of bronze. But a few bronze blanks got stuck in the minting machines and accidentally got stamped into pennies. These error coins went into circulation unnoticed.
Only 15 to 20 of these bronze 1943 Lincoln cents are known to exist today. A perfect version of one could be worth up to $200 million, according to experts.
One even sold privately for $1.7 million in 2010. So yes, a penny could literally be worth more than a mansion.
Hunt
There are other rare Lincoln pennies out there, too. Here are three more to keep an eye out for:
1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
These coins show clear doubling in the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The “S” under the date means it was minted in San Francisco.
Fewer than 1,000 were made before the mistake was caught. One in excellent condition could sell for $75,000 or more.
1992 Close AM Reverse
This penny has a unique design where the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are very close together. This happened when a proof die was mistakenly used for general coins.
Around 250,000 might have been made. A used one can sell for $2,000 to $3,000, while a new one could go for $20,000.
1972 Doubled Die Obverse
Much like the 1969 version, this penny also features doubling in the same key areas. About 250,000 were made and have shown up in everyday change.
A used one is worth about $100, while a better-quality one can bring in $500 or more.
Here’s a quick table of what to look for and how much they’re worth:
| Rare Penny | Unique Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 Bronze Lincoln | Made from bronze, not steel | Up to $200 million |
| 1969-S Doubled Die | Double lettering on front | Around $75,000+ |
| 1992 Close AM | A and M in AMERICA touch | $2,000–$20,000 |
| 1972 Doubled Die | Similar double letters | $100–$500 |
Tips
If you’re ready to dig through your coin jar, here’s how to identify these valuable pennies:
- Look for specific years: 1943, 1969, 1972, and 1992.
- Check the details: Especially the text and spacing on the coin.
- Use a magnet: If a 1943 penny sticks, it’s steel, not bronze.
- Get a professional opinion: Coin dealers or grading services can confirm authenticity.
Even though the chances are small, people have still found these coins in circulation. You never know—your next coffee shop coin could be worth more than a new car.
FAQs
How much did the 1943 penny sell for?
It sold for $204,000 in January at auction.
Why is the 1943 penny so rare?
It was mistakenly struck in bronze during WWII.
What is the 1969-S penny worth?
Up to $75,000 if in great condition.
How to spot a 1992 Close AM penny?
The A and M in AMERICA almost touch.
Can these pennies still be found?
Yes, some have been found in everyday change.
