10 Lincoln Penny Coins That Could Make You Rich: If you’re a fan of Abraham Lincoln and enjoy collecting pennies, you’re in for an exciting discovery. Lincoln Memorial Pennies, in circulation since 1959, have become highly sought after by collectors. Some of these pennies can be worth thousands of dollars due to their rarity or production errors. Let’s explore the top valuable Lincoln Memorial Pennies and what makes them so special.
1983-D Bronze Penny
In 1983, the U.S. Mint transitioned from copper pennies to zinc-core ones. This change left behind some rare bronze pennies, with the 1983-D bronze penny being particularly valuable. As a transitional error coin, it is highly coveted by collectors. A mint-condition example, graded MS67, can sell for up to $1,400.
1969 Doubled Die Penny
The 1969 Lincoln Memorial Penny with a doubled die error is one of the rarest and most valuable finds. The doubling is visible on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” With only a few dozen known to exist, this coin is a prized item. A specimen graded MS64 fetched an impressive $126,500 at auction in 2005.
1981-S Type II Proof Penny
The 1981-S Type II Proof Penny stands out for its sharper “S” mint mark compared to the Type I version. These coins are more desirable to collectors, especially those graded at PF68. Such coins have sold for between $900 and $1,200.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
Another valuable 1983 penny features a doubled die reverse. The doubling is visible on “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and “ONE CENT.” Mint-state versions can bring in substantial amounts, with one graded MS68 selling for around $7,050.
1979-S Type II Proof Penny
Much like the 1981 version, the 1979-S Type II Proof Penny has a clearer “S” mint mark. It is rarer in higher grades, and coins like these have sold for up to $4,000 at auction.
1998 Wide AM Penny
The 1998 Wide AM penny is a unique coin created by a mix-up of a business strike obverse and a proof reverse die. A distinguishing feature is the noticeable gap between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.” High-quality examples of this error coin can fetch more than $5,000.
1992 Close AM Penny
Contrasting with the Wide AM penny, the 1992 Close AM penny has tightly spaced letters in “AMERICA.” This transitional error is incredibly rare, with one MS67 grade example selling for $25,850 at auction.
1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny
The 1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny shows clear doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” High-quality examples with strong doubling and cameo finishes can bring in approximately $3,220.
1970-S Small Date Penny
The 1970-S Small Date penny is distinct from the Large Date version due to the alignment of the numerals. As a coveted coin, a PF69 Deep Cameo version once sold for an impressive $18,400.
1960-D Over D Small Date Penny
This fascinating coin features a repunched mint mark, with a small date struck over a large date. A mint-state version graded MS66 has been known to reach values as high as $4,025.
Lincoln Memorial Pennies offer something for everyone, from transitional errors to rare proof coins. So, if you’re a collector, start searching through your spare change—you never know what valuable coins might be hiding!