Are you overlooking hidden treasures in your spare change? While most pennies are worth just one cent, certain Lincoln pennies, especially those with rare errors or from specific years, can fetch surprising sums. If you’re curious about which pennies might be hiding in your coin jar and are actually worth more than face value, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through a “Pennies Worth Money List,” highlighting the Lincoln Memorial pennies that collectors eagerly seek and pay top dollar for. Get ready to discover if you might be holding onto a small fortune!
Rare Lincoln Pennies Worth Money: Quick Guide
| Lincoln Penny Year | Lincoln Penny Error Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1959 | D Mule Lincoln Penny | $31,050 |
| 1960 | Small Over Large Date Lincoln Penny | $8,500 |
| 1961 | Re-Punched Mint Mark Lincoln Penny | $228 |
| 1962 | D Lincoln Penny, Struck Fragment | $1,000 |
| 1963 | D Lincoln Penny, Double Die Obverse | $209 |
| 1964 | No Mint Mark Lincoln Penny Struck On Clad Dime Planchet | $5,750 |
| 1965 | Broadstruck Wheel Mark Lincoln Penny | $1,800 |
| 1966 | Double Strike With Or Without Die Adjustment Lincoln Penny | $11,500 |
| 1967 | Double/Triple Strike Lincoln Penny | $900 |
| 1968 | DDR And DDO Lincoln Penny | $285 |
| 1969 | S Double Die Obverse Lincoln Penny | $126,500.00 |
| 1970 | S LD DDO Lincoln Penny Business Strike FS-101 | $24,150 |
| 1971 | DDO Lincoln Penny | $14,950 |
| 1972 | Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny | $14,400.00 |
| 1973 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100.00 |
| 1974 | S Lincoln Penny With A Die Break | $184 |
| 1975 | Fold-Over Lincoln Penny | $1,495 |
| 1976 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $230 |
| 1977 | Double-Punched Mint Mark Lincoln Penny | $15 |
| 1978 | Struck On A Dime–Double Denomination Lincoln Penny | $1,035 |
| 1979 | D Lincoln Penny Struck On A Dime Planchet | $1,260 |
| 1980 | Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny | $715 |
| 1981 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $900.00 |
| 1982 | Double Die Lincoln Penny | $200 |
| 1983 | Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Penny | $7,050 |
| 1984 | Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny | $3,900 |
| 1985 | No Mint Mark Lincoln Penny, Partial Plating | $550 |
| 1986 | Wide AM Lincoln Penny | $260 |
| 1987 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $150 |
| 1988 | Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny | $3,120 |
| 1989 | Struck On A Copper Planchet Lincoln Penny | $7,500 |
| 1990 | No-S Proof Lincoln Penny | $8,813 |
| 1991 | Die Chip Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 1992 | Wide And Close AM Lincoln Penny | $5,000 |
| 1993 | D Lincoln Penny, Roosevelt Dime Reverse | $51,000 |
| 1994 | DDR Lincoln Penny | $2,050.00 |
| 1995 | No Mint Mark Lincoln Penny, Double Die Obverse | $5,000 |
| 1996 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 1997 | Missed Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 1998 | Close AM Lincoln Penny | $4,500 |
| 1999 | Doubled- Die Lincoln Penny | $5,400 |
| 2000 | Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | $50 |
| 2001 | Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | $50 |
| 2002 | Off-Center Error Lincoln Penny | $150 |
| 2003 | Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | $50 |
| 2004 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2005 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2006 | Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2007 | off-center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2008 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2009 | Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Penny | $50 |
| 2010 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2011 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2012 | Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | $125 |
| 2013 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2014 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2015 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2016 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2017 | Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | $70 |
| 2018 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2019 | doubled die Lincoln Penny | $50 |
| 2020 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $150 |
| 2021 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2022 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2023 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
Unveiling the Most Valuable Lincoln Pennies: A Collector’s Guide
Lincoln pennies have been a staple of US currency since 1909, initially introduced to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. While billions have been minted, and most circulated Lincoln Memorial pennies hold only their face value, a select few are highly prized by collectors. These valuable pennies often possess unique minting errors or historical significance, elevating their worth far beyond one cent.
This detailed “pennies worth money list” dives into the most sought-after Lincoln pennies, particularly the Lincoln Memorial series (1959-2008). Knowing what to look for can transform your pocket change into a potential windfall. Let’s explore the top examples of Lincoln pennies that are worth significantly more than their face value.
1. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny: The Six-Figure Find
Close-up of a 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny highlighting the doubling on "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST"
The 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny is arguably the king of valuable Lincoln pennies. This error wasn’t widely recognized until the 1990s, decades after its minting. The “doubled die” refers to a mistake during the die creation process, resulting in a noticeable doubling of design elements.
On the 1969-S, the doubling is strikingly apparent, especially on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The “S” mint mark indicates it was produced at the San Francisco Mint. Its rarity, combined with the dramatic doubling, makes it exceptionally valuable. Despite dozens known to exist, mint state examples remain scarce and highly coveted.
Value Potential: A 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny graded MS64 sold for an astounding $126,500 in 2008. Even lower grades command substantial prices, making this a penny worth serious attention.
Explore the 1969 Lincoln Penny: History, Varieties, and Current Values
2. 1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny: A Transitional Rarity
The 1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny is a fascinating error stemming from a design transition. In the early 1990s, the US Mint revised the reverse die for Lincoln pennies. Pennies minted from 1993 onwards were designed with a “Wide AM” in “AMERICA,” meaning the letters “A” and “M” are noticeably spaced apart. However, pennies from 1992 and prior typically feature a “Close AM,” where the letters are very close or touching.
The 1992 Close AM penny is an anomaly because a small number were mistakenly struck with the older “Close AM” die intended for retirement. This makes the 1992 Close AM a transitional error, exceptionally rare, and unique within the Lincoln penny series.
Value Potential: Only a handful of 1992 Close AM pennies are known. A PCGS-certified example in MS67 Red color sold for a remarkable $25,850 in 2017. This penny is a prime example of how subtle variations can drastically increase a coin’s value.
Learn more about the 1992 Lincoln Penny and the Wide AM vs. Close AM varieties
3. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny: Spotting the Subtle Difference
In 1970, the San Francisco Mint produced both circulation and proof Lincoln pennies. Coin collectors soon discovered two distinct date varieties: “Small Date” and “Large Date.” The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny is significantly rarer and therefore more valuable.
Distinguishing between the two requires a close look at the date and the word “LIBERTY.” On the Small Date variety, the top of the number “7” aligns with the tops of the other digits (1, 9, and 0). Conversely, on the Large Date, the “7” sits lower. Additionally, “LIBERTY” appears weaker and less defined on the Small Date compared to the bolder “LIBERTY” on the Large Date.
Value Potential: The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny, particularly in higher grades, is highly sought after. A PF69 Deep Cameo example fetched an impressive $18,400. Even circulated examples are worth well above face value.
Discover the details of the 1970 Lincoln Penny, including how to differentiate between Small and Large Dates.
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4. 1990 No-S Proof Lincoln Penny: The Mint Mark Mystery
The 1990 No-S Proof Lincoln Penny is a standout rarity, being the only proof Lincoln penny lacking a mint mark. Proof coins are specially struck, high-quality coins intended for collectors, and are typically produced at the San Francisco Mint (“S” mint mark).
The error occurred when a mint state die, which lacks a mint mark, was mistakenly used to strike proof coins. The US Mint acknowledged destroying many of these error coins, contributing to their extreme scarcity. Estimates suggest fewer than 200 examples exist.
Value Potential: Due to its rarity and unique nature, the 1990 No-S Proof Penny is highly valuable. A PCGS-graded MS69 example commanded a price of $20,700. These pennies rarely appear on the market, making them highly prized by serious collectors.
Read more about the fascinating story behind the 1990 No-S Proof Penny.
5. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny: Prominent and Pricey
Close-up of a 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny showing the distinct doubling on the date and inscriptions
The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny is another classic error coin with significant collector appeal. While numerous doubled die varieties exist for 1972 pennies, the Type 1 variety is the most valuable.
The doubling on the 1972 Type 1 is strong and easily visible to the naked eye. Look for the doubling on all numerals of the date (1972), “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “LIBERTY.” This prominent doubling, combined with relative scarcity, drives its value.
Value Potential: 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Pennies in high mint state grades (MS67 and above) have sold for as much as $14,000. Even lower grade examples can fetch between $1,200 and $2,000, making it a worthwhile error to seek out.
Delve into the details of the 1972 Lincoln Penny Doubled Die error and its different varieties.
6. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Penny: Strongest Doubling in the Series
The 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny stands out for exhibiting perhaps the most dramatic doubling within the entire Lincoln penny series. Doubled die errors on the reverse (back) of Lincoln pennies are less common than on the obverse (front), adding to the desirability of this error.
The doubling is unmistakable and easily seen without magnification on “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “ONE CENT,” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The strength of the doubling is what sets this error apart.
Value Potential: High-grade mint state examples of the 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny are rare and command premium prices. An MS68 graded example sold for an impressive $7,050.
Explore the 1983 Lincoln Penny, its transition to zinc, and the Doubled Die Reverse error.
7. 1989 Struck on Copper Planchet Lincoln Penny: A Metal Composition Error
In 1989, the standard composition for Lincoln pennies was copper-plated zinc. However, a rare error occurred where some 1989 pennies were mistakenly struck on planchets (coin blanks) made of solid copper, the composition used before 1982.
These 1989 Struck on Copper Planchet pennies are heavier than their zinc counterparts and possess a distinct reddish-copper color throughout, unlike the copper plating on regular 1989 pennies.
Value Potential: This metal composition error makes the 1989 Struck on Copper Planchet Lincoln Penny a valuable find. Examples have sold for around $7,500, depending on condition and grading.
Learn more about the composition changes of the Lincoln Penny and errors related to planchet types.
8. 1998 Wide AM Lincoln Penny: Proof Die Mix-Up
The 1998 Wide AM Lincoln Penny is another intriguing error resulting from a mix-up with die types. Regular business-strike Lincoln pennies from 1993-2008 should have a “Close AM” in “AMERICA” on the reverse. Proof coins from 1994-2008 should have a “Wide AM.”
The 1998 Wide AM penny error occurred when a reverse die intended for proof coins (Wide AM) was accidentally used to strike business-strike pennies. This error, though also found in 1999 and 2000 pennies, is scarcest in 1998.
Value Potential: While circulated examples exist, 1998 Wide AM Lincoln Pennies in mint state, especially MS68 and higher, are exceptionally rare and valuable. Expect prices of $5,000 or more for top-graded specimens.
Discover the story behind the 1998 Wide AM Penny and how to identify it.
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9. 1981-S Type II Proof Lincoln Penny: Mint Mark Variation
In 1981, the San Francisco Mint produced proof Lincoln pennies with two distinct “S” mint mark styles: Type I and Type II. The Type II mint mark is characterized by a clearer, more defined “S” with distinct serifs (small decorative strokes at the ends of the letter). Type I is less defined and somewhat bulbous.
The Mint modified the mint mark punches during production, resulting in Type II being less common than Type I for 1981-S pennies. Approximately 10% of 1981-S proofs are Type II, making them scarcer and more valuable.
Value Potential: 1981-S Type II Proof Lincoln Pennies graded PF68 and above can range from $900 to $1,200. The subtle mint mark difference significantly impacts value for serious collectors.
Explore the mint mark variations of the 1981 Lincoln Penny and how to identify Type II.
10. 1979-S Type II Proof Penny: Another Mint Mark Scarcity
Similar to the 1981-S, the 1979-S Proof Lincoln Penny also has Type I and Type II mint mark varieties. Again, Type II features a clearer, more defined “S” mint mark compared to the more rounded Type I.
In 1979, the Type II variety was produced in even smaller quantities than in 1981, making it scarcer for this year. Most 1979-S proofs are Type I, with Type II emerging later in the year and in smaller numbers.
Value Potential: The 1979-S Type II Proof Lincoln Penny is a valuable find. Examples have been auctioned for as much as $4,000, highlighting the premium placed on this mint mark variety.
Learn more about the 1979 Lincoln Penny and the Type II mint mark distinction.
11. 1960 Small Over Large Date Lincoln Penny: Repunched Date Error
The 1960 Small Over Large Date Lincoln Penny from the Denver Mint (“D” mint mark) exhibits a repunched date error. This occurred when the die was initially stamped with a large date, and then corrected with a smaller date punched over it.
This “Small Over Large Date” is visible under magnification, showing remnants of the larger date numerals beneath the smaller ones. It’s a subtle but significant error for collectors.
Value Potential: The 1960 Small Over Large Date Penny is scarce, particularly in gem mint state condition. An MS66 example sold for $4,025 in 2008, demonstrating the value of this repunched date error.
Discover the intricacies of the 1960 Lincoln Penny and the Small Over Large Date variety.
12. 1983-D Bronze Lincoln Penny: A Composition Mix-Up
The 1983-D Bronze Lincoln Penny is a fascinating error related to the transition from copper to zinc pennies. In 1982, due to rising copper prices, the US Mint switched from 95% copper pennies to zinc pennies with copper plating. The last primarily copper pennies were struck in 1982.
The 1983-D Bronze Penny is an error because it was mistakenly struck on a bronze (copper) planchet instead of the intended copper-plated zinc. These bronze examples are heavier and have a different color tone.
Value Potential: The 1983-D Bronze Lincoln Penny is a valuable transitional error. Mint state red examples can fetch prices starting around $1,400. Scarcity in high grades contributes to its desirability.
Explore the 1983 Lincoln Penny, the metal composition change, and the rare bronze error.
Conclusion: Pennies Worth Money Are Out There
While the Lincoln Memorial penny series is no longer in production, billions remain in circulation. Most are worth only a cent, but as this “pennies worth money list” shows, a select few, due to errors or varieties, are highly valuable.
Keep an eye out for doubled die errors (1969-S, 1972, 1983), mint mark variations (1979-S Type II, 1981-S Type II, 1990 No-S), date errors (1970-S Small Date, 1960 Small Over Large Date, 1992 Close AM), and composition errors (1983-D Bronze, 1989 Copper Planchet). These are the pennies that could turn pocket change into a surprising profit. Happy coin hunting!
