Most of us have a drawer full of old change collecting dust—but what if one of those forgotten pennies is worth a small fortune? One such penny recently turned up after sitting untouched for decades and shocked its owner with a six-figure value. Coin collectors are constantly on the hunt for rare and valuable finds, and here are three Lincoln pennies that could turn your junk drawer into a jackpot.
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
During World War II, pennies were struck in steel to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few copper planchets were mistakenly used, resulting in the extremely rare 1943 Copper Penny. If you find a 1943 penny that doesn’t stick to a magnet, it could be one of these prized coins—worth over $100,000.
1922 No D Lincoln Penny
Most 1922 pennies were minted in Denver and feature a “D” mintmark. But some coins were struck with worn dies, leaving them with no visible mintmark—known as the “No D” variety. These are highly collectible and can sell for upwards of $25,000 depending on condition.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
One of the most famous error coins in U.S. history, the 1955 Doubled Die shows clear doubling of the date and inscriptions. The mistake was so noticeable that it quickly caught the attention of collectors, and today, it’s worth between $10,000 to $30,000.
That dusty penny sitting in your drawer could be more than just spare change—it might be a hidden treasure. With just a little knowledge and a close look, you might discover that you’re holding a coin worth thousands. Don’t overlook your pocket change—your fortune could be hiding in plain sight.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if I have a 1943 copper penny?
Use a magnet. Copper pennies won’t stick, but the common 1943 steel versions will.
2. Why is the 1922 No D penny valuable?
Because all 1922 pennies were struck in Denver, a coin without the “D” mintmark is considered a rare minting error.
3. What makes the 1955 Doubled Die penny so special?
The doubling on the date and letters is clearly visible to the naked eye, making it a popular and valuable collector’s item.
4. Where can I get my coins appraised?
Look for certified coin dealers or grading services like PCGS or NGC to authenticate and evaluate your coin.
5. Should I clean old coins before selling them?
No—cleaning coins can lower their value. Collectors prefer coins in their original, unaltered condition.