Different things that people collect become popular and then not popular. But coins are special because they keep their worth really well. Some pennies, which were worth just one cent at first, are now worth lots of money, even thousands of dollars!
The most interesting part is that you can still find some of these rare, valuable pennies easily. You might have some in your regular change. Even though coins in circulation usually last for 30 to 40 years, some lucky collectors have found pennies from the mid-1900s in their pockets. Of course, they’re worth more money if they’re in really good condition, but most coins that people use a lot show signs of wear and tear.
Here are some of the most valuable pennies that you might find:
1. 1995 Lincoln Memorial Cent (Doubled Die) – Worth: $54
In 1995, there was a mistake when making these pennies that doubled the letters “Liberty” and “In God We.”
2. 1970 S Lincoln Memorial Cent (Small Date – High 7) – Worth: $61
The 1970 penny is very rare if it has a small “S” under the date. The number “7” in the date also appears higher than usual.
3. 1999 S Lincoln Memorial Cent (Close AM) – Worth: $89
The 1999 penny made in San Francisco comes in two versions. One has the letters “AM” in “America” far apart, and the other has them very close together. The close version is more valuable.
4. 1984 Lincoln Memorial Cent (Doubled Die Ear) – Worth: $252
In 1984, there was a mistake that caused Lincoln’s ear to be stamped twice.
5. 1983 Lincoln Memorial Cent (Doubled Die Reverse) – Worth: $429
The back of the 1983 penny might have an error where everything on the back is doubled. If you find one like this, it’s worth keeping for a special occasion.
So, keep an eye out for these special pennies in your pocket change—they could be worth a lot more than just one cent!