Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby that has captivated people for generations. Among the many coins that collectors seek, pennies from the twentieth century stand out due to their historical significance and potential value. While some pennies are worth merely their face value, others can fetch a substantial amount of money. Here are 13 twentieth-century pennies that are worth a pretty penny.
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny is one of the most famous and sought-after coins in American numismatics. It was the first year the Lincoln cent was issued, and the “S” mintmark signifies it was minted in San Francisco. The “VDB” are the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner. With only 484,000 minted, this penny can fetch upwards of $1,000 in good condition.
2. 1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D Lincoln penny is another highly coveted coin among collectors. With a low mintage of 1,193,000, it is particularly rare in high grades. This penny, minted in Denver, can be worth several hundred dollars to over $1,000 depending on its condition.
3. 1922 No D Lincoln Penny
In 1922, the Denver Mint produced pennies without the “D” mintmark due to a die error. These “No D” pennies are incredibly rare and valuable. A well-preserved specimen can command prices from $500 to over $10,000.
4. 1931-S Lincoln Penny
The 1931-S Lincoln penny is another rare coin from the San Francisco Mint. Only 866,000 were minted, making it a sought-after item for collectors. Depending on its condition, this penny can be worth anywhere from $100 to $1,000 or more.
5. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to zinc-coated steel to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few bronze pennies from 1943 slipped through. These rare coins are worth a significant amount, often fetching $100,000 or more at auction.
6. 1944 Steel Lincoln Penny
In 1944, the U.S. Mint returned to using copper for pennies, but a few steel planchets from 1943 were used accidentally. These 1944 steel pennies are incredibly rare and valuable, with prices ranging from $75,000 to $100,000 or more.
7. 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln penny is famous for its doubling error, where the date and lettering appear doubled. This error makes the coin highly desirable among collectors. Depending on its condition, a 1955 Doubled Die penny can be worth several hundred to several thousand dollars.
8. 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
Similar to the 1955 Doubled Die, the 1969-S Doubled Die penny also features prominent doubling. This coin, minted in San Francisco, is rare and can be worth tens of thousands of dollars in high grades.
9. 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny
The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln penny is a variety that is hard to find in circulation. Coins in pristine condition can be worth a significant amount, often fetching several hundred dollars.
10. 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
Another doubled die penny, the 1972 version, features noticeable doubling on the date and lettering. These pennies can be worth anywhere from $100 to $500 or more, depending on their condition.
11. 1983 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
The 1983 Doubled Die Lincoln penny is another sought-after coin with doubling on the reverse side. Well-preserved examples can be worth several hundred dollars.
12. 1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny
The 1992 Close AM Lincoln penny is a variety where the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse are close together. This rare variety can be worth several thousand dollars in high grades.
13. 1995 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
The 1995 Doubled Die Lincoln penny is a more recent example of a valuable error coin. With noticeable doubling on the obverse, these pennies can be worth $20 to $50 or more, depending on their condition.
Conclusion
Collecting pennies can be a rewarding hobby, especially when you come across coins that are worth much more than their face value. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, keeping an eye out for these valuable twentieth-century pennies can add a significant boost to your collection and maybe even your wallet. Happy hunting!