Chart Rare Pennies Worth Money: Discover Valuable Lincoln Cents

Are you fascinated by Abraham Lincoln and coin collecting? Lincoln pennies, featuring the iconic president, are incredibly common. Minted in vast quantities since 1909 to commemorate Lincoln’s 100th birthday, these coins have become a staple of American currency. Over the decades, the Lincoln penny design has seen several variations, most notably the Lincoln Memorial reverse, which graced pennies from 1959 to 2008.

While a typical circulated Lincoln Memorial penny holds only its face value, certain mint state examples and error coins are surprisingly valuable, fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Identifying these rare and valuable Lincoln pennies can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge, you can discover hidden treasures in your spare change.

This guide simplifies the process, providing a chart of rare pennies worth money and detailed information to help you identify these valuable Lincoln Memorial pennies. Let’s dive in and explore the world of rare Lincoln cents!

Quick Chart: Rare Lincoln Pennies Worth Money

Unearthing Riches: Top Valuable Lincoln Pennies Worth Money

While most Lincoln pennies are worth just one cent, certain rare varieties command significant prices in the coin collecting market. These valuable pennies often result from minting errors or unique design variations. Here are some of the most valuable Lincoln pennies to look out for:

1. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny – Up to $126,500

Close-up of a 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny, showing the prominent doubling on "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST"

The 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln penny is a legendary error coin, highly coveted by collectors. This penny features a dramatic doubling of the obverse design, most noticeably on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Interestingly, these errors weren’t widely recognized until the 1990s, almost three decades after they were minted, adding to their mystique and desirability.

The doubling is so pronounced on the 1969-S Doubled Die penny that it’s easily visible to the naked eye. This, combined with its scarcity, makes it one of the most valuable Lincoln pennies. Although several dozen are known to exist, new discoveries still surface occasionally, fueling collector excitement.

In 2005, an example graded MS64 sold for an astounding $126,500, highlighting the potential value of this rare error. When examining 1969-S pennies, look closely for that distinct doubling – it could be worth a fortune!

Explore More About the 1969 Lincoln Penny: History, Price Charts, and Error Varieties

2. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny – Reaching $24,150

The 1970-S Lincoln penny presents a fascinating variety for collectors: the Small Date versus the Large Date. Both circulation and proof versions were minted in San Francisco in 1970, but the Small Date variety is significantly rarer and more valuable. Collectors eagerly search for these pennies, making them a key target in roll searching and pocket change examination.

Distinguishing a Small Date 1970-S penny from a Large Date version involves careful observation. The most reliable method is to examine the date itself. On Small Date pennies, the top of the number “7” is aligned with the tops of the other digits (1, 9, and 0). Conversely, on Large Date pennies, the “7” sits lower than the adjacent numbers.

Another distinguishing feature is the word “LIBERTY.” On Large Date examples, “LIBERTY” appears strong and clear, while on Small Date pennies, it tends to be weaker and less defined.

The highest value recorded for a 1970-S Small Date Lincoln penny is an impressive $24,150, achieved by a PF69 Deep Cameo proof example. Even circulated examples command prices well above face value, making the 1970-S Small Date penny a rewarding find.

Learn More About the 1970 Lincoln Penny: History, Variety Price Chart, and Errors List

3. 1993-D Lincoln Penny with Roosevelt Dime Reverse – Valued at $51,000

In an extraordinary minting error, a 1993-D Lincoln penny was mistakenly struck with the reverse die intended for a Roosevelt dime. This “mule” error, combining the obverse of a penny with the reverse of a dime, is exceptionally rare and valuable.

The 1993-D Lincoln Penny with a Roosevelt Dime Reverse is a dramatic error, instantly recognizable to those familiar with coin designs. It showcases the Lincoln obverse design on the penny’s face, but the reverse bears the unmistakable Roosevelt dime design, complete with the torch, oak, and olive branches.

This error penny is a true rarity, with only a handful of examples known to exist. Its unique nature and scarcity drive its value sky-high. In 2020, a specimen graded MS66 Red by PCGS sold for an incredible $51,000 at auction, cementing its place among the most valuable Lincoln pennies. Finding one of these would be a numismatic dream come true!

Discover Details About the 1993 Lincoln Penny: Price Chart, Error List, and Varieties

4. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny – Up to $14,400

A 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny, highlighting the doubling in the date and inscriptions

The 1972 Lincoln Memorial penny is known for having numerous doubled die varieties, but the most significant and valuable is the Doubled Die Obverse Type 1. This error exhibits strong doubling, readily visible without magnification, on the date, “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “LIBERTY.”

The doubling effect on the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Type 1 penny is quite prominent, making it relatively easy to identify compared to more subtle doubled die errors. This visibility, coupled with its scarcity, contributes to its high value among collectors.

While over ten doubled die varieties are attributed to the 1972 penny, Type 1 stands out as the most sought-after. Examples in high mint state grades (MS67 and above) have reached prices as high as $14,400. Even lower-grade examples can still fetch substantial sums, ranging from $1,200 to $2,000, making any 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Type 1 penny a valuable discovery.

Explore the 1972 Lincoln Penny in Detail: History, Variety Price Chart, and Errors List

5. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Penny – Valued at $7,050

Doubled die errors are a recurring theme in valuable Lincoln pennies, and the 1983 Doubled Die Reverse is a prime example. What sets this error apart is the remarkable strength and clarity of the doubling on the reverse of the coin.

The 1983 Doubled Die Reverse penny showcases exceptional doubling, most notably on “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “ONE CENT,” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The doubling is so pronounced that it’s easily discernible with the naked eye, making it a standout error in the Lincoln cent series.

While doubled die reverse errors exist on other Lincoln cents, the 1983 variety is considered to exhibit the most dramatic doubling. High-grade mint state examples are particularly scarce and command significant premiums. A 1983 Doubled Die Reverse penny graded MS68 achieved an impressive $7,050 at auction, demonstrating the value of this striking error.

Delve Deeper into the 1983 Lincoln Penny: History, Variety Price Chart, and Errors List

6. 1989 Lincoln Penny Struck on Copper Planchet – Up to $7,500

The composition of Lincoln pennies changed over time, and the 1989 Lincoln penny struck on a copper planchet represents a fascinating anomaly. By 1989, pennies were primarily made of copper-plated zinc. However, some 1989 pennies were mistakenly struck on leftover solid copper planchets from earlier years.

These 1989 Copper Planchet pennies are heavier than their zinc counterparts and possess a distinct reddish hue characteristic of copper. This compositional error makes them scarce and desirable to collectors.

The 1989 Lincoln Penny struck on a copper planchet is a subtle error, detectable by weight and color. A standard zinc Lincoln penny weighs 2.5 grams, while a copper penny weighs 3.11 grams. The copper planchet examples also exhibit a more pronounced copper color throughout the coin.

Valued at up to $7,500 for high-grade examples, the 1989 Copper Planchet penny is a rewarding find for those who know what to look for. Checking the weight and color of your 1989 pennies could reveal a valuable error.

Explore the 1989 Lincoln Penny: History, Variety Price Chart, and Errors List

7. 1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny – Reaching $25,850

The 1992 Lincoln penny Close AM variety is a significant transitional error. In 1992, Lincoln pennies were produced with widely spaced “AM” in “AMERICA.” For 1993, the design was changed to feature closely spaced “AM.” However, a small number of 1992 pennies were mistakenly struck with the close “AM” dies intended for 1993.

This 1992 Close AM penny is unique as the only Lincoln penny exhibiting this transitional design intended for the following year. The close spacing of the “AM” in “AMERICA” is the key identifying feature. Regular 1992 pennies have a noticeable gap between the “A” and “M,” while the rare Close AM variety shows the letters nearly touching.

The 1992 Close AM penny is exceptionally rare, with only a handful of confirmed examples. The scarcity and the fascinating story behind this transitional error drive its value. In 2017, a 1992 Close AM penny graded MS67 Red color sold for an impressive $25,850, highlighting its desirability and value in the coin market.

Discover More About the 1992 Lincoln Penny: History, Variety Price Chart, and Errors List

8. 1990 No-S Proof Lincoln Penny – Valued at $20,700

A 1990 No-S Proof Lincoln Penny, lacking the "S" mint mark, indicating its proof error status

The 1990 No-S Proof Lincoln penny stands out as a unique and highly sought-after error. It is the only proof Lincoln penny that lacks a mint mark. Proof coins are typically struck at the San Francisco Mint and bear an “S” mint mark. The 1990 No-S Proof penny is a result of a minting mistake where proof dies, which should have included the “S” mint mark, were used without it.

This error is incredibly scarce; fewer than 200 examples are estimated to exist. The rarity stems from the fact that the Mint recognized the error and reportedly destroyed a significant number of the No-S Proof pennies. However, some escaped destruction and entered the collector market, becoming highly prized for their uniqueness and low mintage.

The 1990 No-S Proof Lincoln penny is easily identified by the absence of the “S” mint mark below the date, where it is normally located on proof coins. Due to their extreme rarity, these pennies rarely appear for auction. The highest graded example, an MS69, sold for $20,700, showcasing the significant value of this elusive error.

Learn More About the 1990 Lincoln Penny: History, Variety Price Chart, and Errors List

9. 1998 Wide AM Lincoln Penny – Up to $5,000

The 1998 Wide AM Lincoln penny is another intriguing error coin resulting from the accidental use of proof dies for striking regular circulation pennies. In 1998, 1999, and 2000, circulation strike Lincoln cents were affected by this error. However, the 1998 Wide AM variety is considered the rarest of the three years.

The error lies in the spacing of the letters “AM” in “AMERICA” on the reverse of the coin. Regular business strike Lincoln pennies from 1993 to 2008 exhibit closely spaced “AM.” In contrast, proof coins from 1994 to 2008 feature widely spaced “AM.” The 1998 Wide AM error pennies exhibit this wide “AM” spacing characteristic of proof coins, despite being business strikes.

To identify a 1998 Wide AM penny, examine the “AM” in “AMERICA.” A noticeable gap between the “A” and “M” indicates the Wide AM variety. While circulated examples are relatively common, mint state 1998 Wide AM pennies, especially those graded MS67 or higher, are scarce and valuable, fetching prices of $5,000 or more.

Discover the 1998 Lincoln Penny: History, Variety Price Chart, and Errors List

10. 1960-D Small Date Over Large Date Lincoln Penny – Valued at $8,500

The 1960-D Lincoln penny with a Small Date Over Large Date error is a fascinating example of minting corrections leading to valuable varieties. At the Denver Mint in 1960, there were issues with the date punches used for Lincoln pennies.

This error penny exhibits a “Small Date Over Large Date” phenomenon. Initially, dies were punched with a large date. Realizing the date size was incorrect, mint workers attempted to correct the error by punching a smaller date over the larger one, without replacing the entire die. This resulted in pennies showing remnants of both the large and small dates, creating a layered effect.

Identifying the 1960-D Small Date Over Large Date penny requires close examination of the date. You can often see traces of the larger date beneath the smaller, corrected date. This error is more pronounced on some examples than others.

Gem mint state examples of the 1960-D Small Date Over Large Date Lincoln penny are particularly scarce and valuable. In 2008, an MS66 example sold for an impressive $8,500, demonstrating the value of this intriguing minting anomaly.

Explore the 1960 Lincoln Penny: History, Variety Price Chart, and Errors List

11. 1981-S Type II Proof Lincoln Penny – Ranging from $900 to $1,200

A side-by-side comparison of a 1981-S Type I and Type II Proof Lincoln Penny, highlighting the difference in the "S" mint mark

The 1981-S Lincoln Proof penny comes in two distinct varieties: Type I and Type II. The difference lies in the “S” mint mark. Type I pennies feature a less defined “S” mint mark, while Type II pennies exhibit a clearer “S” with more distinct serifs.

This variation arose from modifications to the mint mark punches used in 1981. The Mint refined the punches, resulting in a more defined “S” mint mark for Type II coins. While most 1979 and 1980-S proof pennies are Type I, approximately 10% of the 1981-S proof pennies are the scarcer Type II variety.

Identifying the Type II 1981-S Proof penny involves examining the “S” mint mark. Type II examples have a sharper, more defined “S” with clear serifs, compared to the less distinct “S” of Type I coins.

Due to their relative scarcity, 1981-S Type II Proof Lincoln pennies are more valuable than their Type I counterparts. Specimens graded PF68 and above can range in value from $900 to $1,200, making them a worthwhile variety for proof Lincoln penny collectors.

Uncover Details About the 1981 Lincoln Penny: History, Variety Price Chart, and Errors List

12. 1983-D Bronze Lincoln Penny – Valued Around $1,400

The 1983-D Bronze Lincoln penny is a transitional error coin that arose from changes in penny composition. In 1982, due to rising copper prices, the U.S. Mint transitioned from 95% copper pennies to zinc pennies with copper plating. However, some 1983-D pennies were mistakenly struck on leftover bronze planchets (95% copper) from 1982.

These 1983-D Bronze pennies are compositionally identical to pre-1982 copper pennies, making them heavier and exhibiting a distinct copper hue throughout. This compositional error makes them scarce and valuable as transitional pieces.

The 1983-D Bronze Lincoln penny is identified by its composition. It weighs 3.11 grams, like pre-1982 copper pennies, compared to the 2.5 grams of standard 1983 zinc pennies. Its color is also a richer, more consistent copper tone than copper-plated zinc pennies.

While 1983 saw the shift to zinc pennies, the 1983-D Bronze penny stands as a valuable reminder of the copper era. Mint state red examples can fetch prices around $1,400, making them a sought-after error for Lincoln penny enthusiasts.

Read More About the 1983 Lincoln Penny: History, Variety Price Chart, and Errors List

Conclusion: Penny for Your Thoughts – Could You Have a Fortune in Your Pocket?

While Lincoln Memorial pennies might seem commonplace, this guide reveals that within their ranks lie rare and valuable treasures. From dramatic doubled die errors to subtle planchet and mint mark variations, certain Lincoln cents can be worth far more than their face value.

Key dates and errors to watch for include the 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse, 1970-S Small Date, 1993-D Roosevelt Dime Reverse, and 1990 No-S Proof. Even seemingly minor variations like the 1998 Wide AM and 1992 Close AM can unlock significant value.

So, the next time you encounter a Lincoln penny, take a closer look. Consult this chart of rare pennies worth money, examine the details, and you might just discover a valuable coin hiding in plain sight. Happy coin hunting!