Lincoln pennies are those small one-cent coins you might find in your pocket or a jar at home. Most are just worth one cent, but some special ones from certain years can sell for hundreds or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. These rare pieces get their high price from things like few being made (low mintage), mistakes during production, or being in perfect shape. If you’re new to coin collecting or just want to check your old change, this guide explains Lincoln penny values by year in easy words. We’ll cover history, top finds, simple checks, and more to help you spot a treasure. Keywords like “valuable Lincoln pennies” and “rare Lincoln cents by year” will help you find this info online.
A Short History of Lincoln Pennies
Lincoln pennies first came out in 1909 to celebrate the 100th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln. It was the first U.S. coin to show a real person’s face instead of symbols like Lady Liberty. Artist Victor David Brenner designed it. The front side (obverse) has Lincoln’s profile, and the back originally showed two wheat stalks, so people call early ones “wheat pennies.” This design lasted until 1958.
In 1959, the back changed to the Lincoln Memorial building to mark 150 years since Lincoln’s birth. Later updates included special 2009 versions for his 200th birthday with different back designs. Over time, the U.S. Mint made these in places like Philadelphia (no mark), Denver (“D”), and San Francisco (“S”). These coins link to big events like World War II, when materials changed, leading to rare mistakes.
What Makes a Lincoln Penny Worth Big Money
A penny’s value depends on a few simple things. First, the year and where it was made (mint mark)—some years had very few coins produced, making them scarce. Second, condition: coins that look brand new, graded high like MS-65 (mint state, almost perfect), sell for more. Third, errors: these are factory slip-ups, like doubled letters or wrong metal, which make the coin unique.
Collectors love these for their story and as smart buys, since prices can rise over time. Not every old penny is valuable—only key dates, special types, or flawless ones stand out. Understanding this helps you hunt for rare Lincoln pennies in your collection.
Top Rare Lincoln Pennies by Year
Here are the most sought-after ones, explained simply.
1909-S VDB Penny
The first year, made in San Francisco with the designer’s initials (VDB) on the back. Very few exist, so it’s a top prize. Worth $5,000 to $150,000 based on how good it looks.
1914-D Penny
From Denver, with low numbers made. Popular in top grades. Can fetch $2,000 to $35,000.
1922 No D Penny
A Denver coin but without the “D” mark—a big production error. Values range from $1,500 to $25,000.
1931-S Penny
San Francisco made few of these. Condition matters a lot. Sells for $800 to $20,000.
1943 Copper Penny
During World War II, pennies were steel to save copper, but a tiny number came out in copper by mistake. Super rare, over $100,000.
1955 Doubled Die Penny
The date and words look blurry from a double stamp error. A favorite, worth $1,500 to $15,000.
1972 Doubled Die Penny
Similar doubling on the front. More modern, but still valuable at $50 to $1,000.
1983 Close AM Penny
A small change in how “AM” in “AMERICA” looks close together. Worth $50 to $400.
1992 Close AM Penny
Like the 1983, another subtle tweak. Values $50 to $300.
2009 Bicentennial Pennies
Special set with four different backs for Lincoln’s 200th birthday. Each can be $1 to $50.
Quick Value Chart for Key Lincoln Pennies
This table shows main types, features, and price ranges to help you compare.
| Year/Type | Key Feature/Mint | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | San Francisco, designer initials | $5,000–$150,000 |
| 1914-D | Denver, low numbers made | $2,000–$35,000 |
| 1922 No D | Missing Denver mark | $1,500–$25,000 |
| 1931-S | San Francisco, scarce | $800–$20,000 |
| 1943 Copper | Wrong metal error | $100,000+ |
| 1955 Doubled Die | Blurry doubling on front | $1,500–$15,000 |
| 1972 Doubled Die | Front doubling error | $50–$1,000 |
| 1983 Close AM | Tight “AM” spacing | $50–$400 |
| 1992 Close AM | Similar tight spacing | $50–$300 |
| 2009 Bicentennial | Special birthday designs | $1–$50 |
Easy Tips to Find Valuable Lincoln Pennies
Want to check your coins? Here’s a list of simple steps:
- Look at Mint Marks: Tiny letters like “S” or “D” under the date show where made—some are rarer.
- Hunt for Mistakes: Check for doubled edges on words or dates, missing parts, or odd colors.
- Check Shape: Use a magnifier; no scratches or wear means higher value.
- Know Key Years: Focus on 1909, 1914, 1922, 1931, 1943, 1955—big winners.
- Get It Checked: Send to experts like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) for official rating.
These tips make spotting rare ones fun and straightforward.
Advice from Coin Experts
Pros say always handle coins carefully to keep their shine—don’t clean them, as it can scratch and lower worth. Buy graded ones for safety, as they prove the coin is real. Join collector groups or visit shows to learn more and sell smartly.
Conclusion
Lincoln pennies mix everyday money with hidden history and big rewards. From the famous 1943 copper error worth over $100,000 to easy-to-find 2009 specials, knowing values by year turns simple hunts into exciting discoveries. Start checking your pennies today—you might have a valuable gem waiting. With patience, you could turn a cent into serious cash.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are all old Lincoln pennies worth money?
No, only certain years with low production, errors, or great condition are valuable—most are just one cent.
How do I find out my penny’s real value?
Look at the year, mint mark, shape, and any mistakes; then get a pro grading for an accurate price.
Where can I sell a rare Lincoln penny?
Try coin shops, online auctions, or shows—graded coins sell better at places like certified dealers.
What’s the rarest Lincoln penny?
The 1943 copper is one of the top rarities, but 1909-S VDB in top shape is also a big deal.
Can I find valuable pennies in my change today?
Yes, though uncommon—check dates and errors in loose coins or bank rolls for surprises.