In the world of coin collecting, known as numismatics, Lincoln pennies are very special. This year, five rare Lincoln pennies are set to be sold at auctions, with prices that could reach up to $840,000! These “holy grail” coins are sought after by collectors because they have unique mistakes in their minting or rare materials, making them incredibly valuable.
The Most Expensive Lincoln Pennies Up for Auction
Every penny has its own unique story and history that increases its value. These coins are not just any coins; they represent some of the most significant mistakes made by the U.S. Mint. Here are the details of these valuable Lincoln pennies:
| Coin Name | Auction Price (USD) | Mint Location | Unique Feature | Rarity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1943-D Bronze Cent | $840,000 | Denver | Bronze instead of steel | Only one known |
| 1943-S Bronze Cent | $504,000 | San Francisco | Bronze with zinc fleck | Very rare |
| 1944-S Steel Cent | $373,750 | San Francisco | Steel, one of two known | Only uncirculated |
| 1943 Bronze Cent | $372,000 | Philadelphia | Bronze instead of steel | Around 20 known |
| 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent | $348,000 | Philadelphia | Bronze instead of steel | Approximately 10-15 |
1. 1943-D Bronze Cent – $840,000
The 1943-D Bronze Cent is one of the rarest Lincoln pennies, selling for a record-breaking $840,000. This penny was mistakenly made from bronze at the Denver Mint when pennies were normally made from steel. It is the only 1943 bronze penny from Denver and has a beautiful olive-brown color with hints of red. Collectors find it especially desirable because of its unique appearance and history.
2. 1943-S Bronze Cent – $504,000
The 1943-S Bronze Cent is another incredible coin. It was sold for $504,000 and minted in San Francisco. This penny was also mistakenly made in bronze and has a rare zinc fleck on its surface. Its clear details, especially of Lincoln’s hair and the wheat stalks on the back, make it a prized item for collectors.
3. 1944-S Steel Cent – $373,750
The 1944-S Steel Cent, valued at $373,750, is one of only two known examples. Unlike other pennies from 1944, which were made of copper, this one from San Francisco is made from zinc-plated steel and is in pristine condition. Its bright surface and detailed designs make it a dream for collectors.
4. 1943 Bronze Cent (Philadelphia) – $372,000
The 1943 Bronze Cent from Philadelphia sold for $372,000. It is one of about 20 bronze cents made by mistake and has a rich brown color with hints of red. Found in 1957, this coin gained fame quickly, with rumors that it could be traded for a new car. Its story and rarity make it very valuable.
5. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent – $348,000
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent is valued at $348,000 and is one of about 10 to 15 known examples. It has a deep brown color with red accents, making it very appealing. This penny was struck on the wrong planchet when steel was normally used, so it remains a favorite among collectors.
The market for rare Lincoln pennies is growing, and these “holy grail” coins are some of the most valuable pieces of U.S. coin history. Collectors from all over are eager to add them to their collections.
FAQ’s
What makes these Lincoln pennies so valuable?
These Lincoln pennies are valuable due to their unique minting errors and rare materials. Mistakes in their creation make them sought after by collectors.
Where can I find these rare coins?
You can find these coins at auctions, coin shops, or from private collectors. Websites that specialize in numismatics may also list them for sale.
How can I tell if my penny is rare?
To determine if your penny is rare, you can compare it to known rare coins. Look for specific minting errors, dates, and features. Consulting a coin expert or using a price guide can also help.