Sometimes, the most valuable treasures are hiding in plain sight. That was the case for one lucky family who discovered a rare penny worth $251,000 in their late grandmother’s old coin jar. The world of coin collecting is full of surprises, and that humble pile of change could secretly be a goldmine. Here are three rare pennies that could be hiding in your home—each worth thousands.
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
The 1943 Copper Penny is a legendary minting mistake. During World War II, the U.S. Mint used steel to save copper for military supplies. But a few copper blanks were mistakenly used, and these coins are now worth a fortune. If you find a 1943 penny that’s not magnetic, get it checked—it could fetch over $100,000 at auction.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
One of the most desirable coins among collectors, the 1909-S VDB penny features the initials of its designer, Victor David Brenner, and was minted in San Francisco. With a low mintage of just under 500,000, this coin is extremely rare. Depending on its condition, it can easily sell for $50,000 or more.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
At first glance, it may look like a blurry printing error—but that’s the key to its value. The 1955 Doubled Die penny features distinct doubling on the date and inscriptions. It’s one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history and can be worth between $10,000 to $30,000 to the right collector.
That old jar of coins on your shelf or in the attic might be worth far more than face value. As the discovery in Grandma’s house proves, these rare pennies are still out there waiting to be found. Take a moment to check your change—you might just be sitting on a six-figure surprise.
FAQ’s:
1. How do I know if my 1943 penny is made of copper?
Use a magnet. If it sticks, it’s steel. If it doesn’t, you might have a valuable copper version.
2. What makes the 1909-S VDB penny so rare?
Its low mintage and short production run with the designer’s initials make it highly collectible.
3. How can I identify a doubled die penny?
Look for clear doubling in the date and lettering—especially the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
4. Where should I sell a valuable penny?
Use reputable coin dealers or auction houses. Get the coin graded by a trusted service like PCGS or NGC first.
5. Can cleaning a penny ruin its value?
Yes, absolutely. Cleaning can damage the coin and reduce its worth. Always keep it in original condition.