Collectors and investors often focus on a handful of twentieth-century pennies that regularly command attention at auctions and shows. This guide explains eleven of the most notable rare pennies from the 1900s, how to spot them, and practical tips for buying or selling.
How to Approach Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
Learn basic identifiers before you examine coins closely. Look for mintmarks, designer initials, die doubling, and unusual metal composition.
For value estimates, always consider grade, provenance, and market demand. Professional grading (PCGS/NGC) can dramatically affect sale prices.
Top 11 Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
Key features: San Francisco mintmark with designer initials VDB on the reverse. Low mintage makes this one of the most sought-after early Lincoln cents.
- Mintage: Very low relative to later Lincoln cents.
- Collecting tip: Look for clear VDB initials and sharp strike on wheat ears.
- Value: High-end ranges; quality examples can reach tens of thousands at auction.
2. 1909-S Lincoln Cent (without VDB)
This 1909-S type without the VDB initials is also scarce compared with Philadelphia issues. It’s a key date for San Francisco-minted coins of the period.
- Identification: San Francisco mintmark (S) on obverse under date or reverse depending on variety.
- Why it matters: Early S-mint Lincoln cents had smaller mintages and fewer survivors.
3. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
One of the scarcest Denver-minted Lincoln cents, especially in higher grades. It’s a classic key date that belongs in advanced collections.
- Mintage: Low; survivors in mint state are particularly rare.
- Collecting tip: Even circulated examples are valuable—inspect for full date and mintmark clarity.
4. 1922 No D Lincoln Cent (Plain)
Many 1922 cents appear to lack a Denver mintmark because the D was weakly struck or filled. The true “No D” bronze coins are scarce and highly collectible.
- Identification: No visible D and bronze composition (not zinc-coated steel).
- Value: Significant premiums for well-authenticated examples.
5. 1931-S Lincoln Cent
A classic San Francisco key date. Lower mintage and reduced survival rates in high grades make this coin important to serious Lincoln cent sets.
- Tip: Seek good strike and legible mintmark for stronger value.
6. 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent
Most 1943 cents were struck on steel planchets. A few were mistakenly struck on bronze or copper planchets, creating extremely rare error coins.
- Identification: Copper color and magnet test (copper is non-magnetic).
- Warning: Many modern electroplated fakes exist—professional authentication is essential.
7. 1944 Steel Lincoln Cent
Conversely, a few 1944 cents were struck on leftover steel planchets and are rare errors. These can be valuable when verified.
- Identification: Steel appearance and magnetic attraction. Look for correct date and mintmark details.
8. 1955 Double Die Obverse
The 1955 doubled die obverse (DDO) is one of the most famous twentieth-century errors. Doubling is clearly visible in the date and inscriptions.
- Identification: Strong doubling on “LIBERTY” and the date.
- Collecting tip: Even worn examples are desirable—higher grades command premiums.
9. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse (Proof)
A rare proof doubled die from the San Francisco Mint. Only a handful are recorded in high-grade proof condition.
- Identification: Pronounced doubling on lettering and date under strong magnification.
- Note: Proof coins require careful handling to preserve mirrors and cameo contrast.
10. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1972 DDO from Philadelphia is a popular modern rarity. Look for doubling on the date and motto.
- Why collect: It’s an accessible modern rarity for advanced sets and error collections.
11. 1983 Close AM / Wide AM Varieties
Late twentieth-century varieties such as the 1983 Close AM and Wide AM Lincoln cents are of interest to specialists. They are not as valuable as older keys but important for full-date sets.
- Identification: Differences in spacing between the A and M on the reverse motto.
- Tip: Buy certified examples if you need the exact variety for a registry set.
During 1943 the U.S. Mint switched to steel planchets to save copper for the war effort. That single-year change created some of the most famous penny errors collectors seek today.
Practical Tips for Identifying and Selling Rare Pennies
- Use a loupe (10x) and a magnet to check metal composition quickly.
- Compare suspected rarities to certified examples online before paying high prices.
- Get high-value items authenticated by PCGS or NGC; provenance raises buyer confidence.
- Keep coins in proper holders and avoid cleaning, which can destroy value.
Case Study: 1955 Double Die Discovered at a Flea Market
A collector reported finding a worn 1955 DDO among mixed change purchased at a flea market. After authentication and a professional grade, the coin sold at auction for several thousand dollars.
Lesson: Careful inspection and third-party grading can turn a modest find into a significant sale.
Final Notes on Twentieth-Century Pennies
Rare twentieth-century pennies range from early low-mintage keys to dramatic error pieces and modern doubled dies. Patience, study, and authentication are the best strategies for building value and avoiding counterfeits.
Start by learning a few key dates and practice spotting identifying marks. Over time you’ll recognize which coins deserve further research or professional grading.