Top 7 Most Valuable Pennies in America

If you collect coins or sometimes check your change, a single penny might be worth far more than face value. This guide lists the top 7 most valuable pennies in America, explains how to identify them, and gives practical tips for grading and selling.

Top 7 Most Valuable Pennies in America

These seven coins are repeatedly cited by numismatists and auction houses as the most valuable U.S. cents. Values depend heavily on condition, provenance, and market demand.

1. 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent (1943 Bronze Penny)

Most 1943 cents were struck in steel because copper was redirected for World War II. A few bronze planchets from 1942 remained in the press and were accidentally struck in 1943. These error coins are among the rarest modern pennies.

• How to identify: heavy, brownish copper color (not silver-gray steel).
• Value range: tens of thousands to over one million dollars for certified examples in top grades.
• Tip: look for rust-free brown color and get it graded before selling.

2. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent

The 1955 doubled die obverse shows prominent doubling of the date and lettering. It’s one of the most famous modern mint errors and remains highly collectible.

• How to identify: doubling is obvious on the date and the words IN GOD WE TRUST, especially the D in GOD.
• Value range: a few thousand dollars in circulated condition to six figures for high-grade, certified examples.
• Tip: photograph the obverse at high resolution and compare to verified examples before submitting to a grading service.

3. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent

One of the earliest Lincoln cents, the 1909-S VDB has a small mintage and distinctive artist initials (VDB) on the reverse. It’s a key date for Lincoln collectors.

• How to identify: check the reverse at the bottom for the letters VDB.
• Value range: hundreds to tens of thousands depending on grade; uncirculated examples command premium prices.
• Tip: provenance and certified grade substantially increase resale price.

4. 1877 Indian Head Cent

The 1877 Indian Head cent is a classic key date with low mintage and high demand among Indian Head collectors.

• How to identify: obverse features the Indian Head portrait and the date 1877; look for strong strike and minimal wear.
• Value range: several hundred for worn examples to many thousands for high-grade or certified pieces.
• Tip: grading and market timing (auctions) can increase final sale price.

5. 1856 Flying Eagle Cent (Pattern)

The 1856 Flying Eagle pattern cent was produced in very small numbers and is considered a pattern coin rather than a regular issue. It’s rare and highly prized.

• How to identify: small eagle in flight on the obverse (design is different from later cents).
• Value range: tens of thousands to several hundred thousand dollars based on condition and authenticity.
• Tip: require expert authentication due to forgeries and restrikes.

6. 1793 Chain Large Cent

As one of the earliest U.S. cents, the 1793 chain cent is a historic and valuable large cent. Collectors prize early mint issues for rarity and historical importance.

• How to identify: a chain design on the reverse and Flowing Hair obverse style.
• Value range: generally in the hundreds of thousands to millions depending on variety and condition.
• Tip: only sell through a major auction house or specialist dealer for best results.

7. 1864 Indian Head Cent With L

The 1864 Indian Head cent is notable for the designer initial L on the ribbon (for James B. Longacre). Certain varieties and high-grade examples are scarce and valuable.

• How to identify: look for a small L on the ribbon of the obverse portrait.
• Value range: hundreds to tens of thousands; rare varieties and mint-state coins are worth more.
• Tip: small marks like the L can be hard to see—use magnification and good lighting.

How to Check and Protect a Potentially Valuable Penny

Follow these practical steps if you think you found a valuable penny. Quick actions can preserve value and prevent mistakes.

• Do not clean the coin. Cleaning can destroy value and reduce grade.
• Use a magnifier and bright light to inspect date, mint marks, and errors.
• Photograph both sides at high resolution to document condition and features.
• Get a professional opinion: local coin dealer, certified grading service (PCGS, NGC), or trusted auction house.

Real-World Example: Case Study

A private collector in 2010 submitted a 1943 Lincoln cent that appeared copper-colored. After authentication and grading it was identified as a genuine 1943 bronze (copper) cent. The coin sold at auction later that year for more than one million dollars.

This case shows the importance of authentication, proper handling, and selling through a reputable auctioneer to realize top dollar.

Final Tips for Sellers and Collectors

Rare pennies can make you rich, but only with careful identification, preservation, and the right sales channel. Patience and accurate grading pay off.

• Always authenticate before listing or selling.
• Get multiple opinions on very high-value coins.
• Consider auction houses for top-tier items and specialist dealers for routine sales.

Finding a valuable penny in your pocket change is rare, but knowing what to look for and how to proceed can turn a small coin into a big payday. Keep this checklist handy and consult professionals when in doubt.