Collectors and casual finders both benefit from knowing the most valuable and unusual pennies struck during the twentieth century. This guide lists the top 13 rare pennies of the twentieth century, explains why each is rare, and gives quick tips on spotting and authenticating them.
Overview of Top 13 Rare Pennies of the Twentieth Century
The list below includes key-date Lincoln cents, well-known doubled-die varieties, and composition errors that make certain coins worth far more than face value. Each entry explains the identifying marks and why collectors prize the coin.
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
One of the most famous early Lincoln cents. Look for the VDB initials on the reverse at the bottom and the small S mint mark on the obverse. High-grade examples are scarce, and the coin is a must-have for Lincoln cent sets.
2. 1909 VDB (Philadelphia)
The 1909 Philadelphia piece with VDB on the reverse is a key variety for type collectors. It was only produced in limited numbers, so preservation grade matters a great deal for value.
3. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
A classic key date. The Denver mint mark combined with low surviving mint state populations makes this coin costly in high grades. Inspect the mint mark and overall wear carefully.
4. 1922 Plain (No D) Lincoln Cent
Many 1922 cents were struck with weak or missing mint marks; the “plain” or “no D” variety (no visible D) is highly sought after. Clean imaging and magnification help confirm whether a mint mark is truly absent.
5. 1931-S Lincoln Cent
The San Francisco strike of 1931 has a small mintage and often displays heavier wear. Mid- to high-grade specimens command premiums among date-and-mint collectors.
6. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent
During World War II the Mint switched to steel planchets, but a few bronze planchets were accidentally struck with 1943 dates. These errors are extremely rare and valuable after authentication.
7. 1944 Steel Lincoln Cent
After the Mint resumed bronze cents, leftover steel planchets occasionally produced 1944-dated steel cents. Like other composition errors, proper testing and grading are essential before trading.
8. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse
One of the most famous doubled-die varieties in U.S. coinage. The doubling is obvious on the date and the word LIBERTY. Even worn examples are collectible; well-preserved pieces can be especially valuable.
9. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
A rare doubled-die from the San Francisco mint. Look for strong doubling on the date and inscriptions. Because many examples are proofs, condition and authentication by a grading service improve buyer confidence.
10. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse
While not as famous as 1955, the 1972 doubled die is a recognized collectible. Doubling shows most clearly in the inscriptions; graders separate true doubled dies from machine doubling or die wear.
11. 1983 D Doubled Die (Key Varieties)
Several 1980s Lincoln cent varieties exist that attract interest from modern collectors. Some doubled dies and repunched mint marks carry premiums at higher grades.
12. 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent (Wheat/Small Varieties)
Late-twentieth-century collectible varieties include minute differences like Close AM vs. Open AM and other die pairing traits. These are modestly valuable but popular with type and error collectors.
13. Modern Error Pennies (20th Century Examples)
Errors such as off-center strikes, broadstrikes, clipped planchets, and struck-through obstructions occurred throughout the twentieth century. Each error type has its own market; the more dramatic the error, the higher the likely value.
How to Identify and Verify Rare Pennies
Use magnification to inspect dates, mint marks, and doubling. Check for composition differences (color and weight) when suspecting bronze vs. steel. Always look for signs of cleaning or post-mint damage, which drastically reduce market value.
- Check mint marks: S, D, and absence of a mint mark matter.
- Inspect doubling and repunched marks with a loupe (10x) or macro photo.
- Test composition carefully; magnetic tests help spot steel cents, but don’t rely on strong magnets alone.
A single composition error, like a 1943 bronze cent, can be worth thousands or more once authenticated and graded by a professional service.
Practical Tips for Buyers and Sellers
When buying, request clear photos and provenance, and prefer coins graded by a reputable third-party service for high-value pieces. When selling, disclose any repairs, cleaning, or mounting marks to avoid disputes.
For lower-value finds, local coin dealers can offer quick appraisals. For rare dates or errors, consider submitting to a grading service before auctioning to get the best price and buyer trust.
Real-World Case Study
A collector found several old pennies while sorting a family jar. Among them was a battered 1955 with obvious doubling on the date. After authentication and grading, the coin sold through a specialty auction. The case shows the value of photographing suspected varieties and seeking professional authentication before sale.
Summary
Knowing the top 13 rare pennies of the twentieth century helps you spot valuable finds and avoid mistakes. Focus on mint marks, doubled dies, and composition errors, and use professional authentication for anything that looks rare. Careful documentation and honest condition reporting protect both buyers and sellers.