You’ve probably tossed many pennies into your pocket without giving them much thought, but what if you were sitting on a small fortune? In 2019, a lucky individual discovered a rare penny in a parking lot that sold for an astonishing $120,000. This discovery shows just how valuable pennies can be, especially when they have minting errors or rare characteristics. So, before you toss that old penny in your pocket, consider whether it could be worth much more than you think. Let’s explore the story behind this discovery and other pennies worth big money!
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
The 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history, and for good reason. During World War II, copper was in short supply, so the U.S. Mint began producing pennies made from steel. However, some copper blanks from 1942 accidentally made it into the production line, and a few 1943 Copper Pennies were struck. These rare coins are now considered one of the most valuable pennies in the world, with one selling for over $1 million. If you find a 1943 penny that isn’t magnetic, there’s a chance you’ve found one of these rare gems!
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
Another penny that has captured the attention of collectors is the 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny. This error was caused when the coin die was struck twice, resulting in double images on the coin’s lettering and date. It’s one of the most well-known and sought-after error coins in the world of numismatics. A 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny in excellent condition can sell for as much as $300,000 or more. So, if you find one of these rare coins, make sure you check for the doubling on the “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” inscriptions.
1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
The 1972 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny is another prized error coin. While it’s not as rare as the 1943 Copper or 1955 Doubled Die Pennies, it still holds significant value. The doubling effect is subtler on the 1972 penny, but it can be found on the obverse—particularly on the “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” inscriptions. These pennies are known to fetch prices between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on their condition. So, if you have a 1972 penny, it’s worth taking a closer look.
A simple discovery in a parking lot turned into an incredible payday for one lucky individual, proving that even the most overlooked coins could hold substantial value. The penny, a coin that is often thought of as insignificant, can be worth thousands, or even millions, if it’s the right one. Whether it’s a 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny, a 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny, or a 1972 Doubled Die, there’s a chance you could be holding a rare coin worth a small fortune. So next time you find a penny, take a second to look for any of these rare characteristics—you never know what you might find!
FAQ’s:
1. How do I identify a rare penny?
Look for any minting errors, such as doubled die, misaligned dies, or unusual features like the 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny. The year and mint mark also play a huge role in identifying valuable pennies.
2. Can I sell my rare penny on my own?
While you can sell a rare penny privately, it’s often best to consult with a professional coin dealer or auction house to ensure you get the best price and avoid scams.
3. What’s the best way to preserve my rare pennies?
To preserve rare pennies, store them in a protective holder, such as a coin flip or slab. Avoid cleaning the coins, as this can reduce their value.
4. How can I get my rare pennies authenticated?
You can have your rare pennies authenticated and graded by a professional coin grading service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).
5. Are all 1943 pennies worth a lot?
No, only the copper 1943 pennies are valuable. The steel 1943 pennies are not worth much, but the copper versions, which are rare, can be worth hundreds of thousands or more.