A routine garage clean-up turned into a life-changing moment for one woman when she stumbled upon an old penny tucked inside a dusty shoebox. That unassuming coin turned out to be worth a staggering $187,500! While it may sound like a once-in-a-lifetime story, rare pennies like this are still hiding in drawers, boxes, and jars across America. Here are three Lincoln pennies you should be on the lookout for—you might be holding onto a fortune without even realizing it.
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
In 1943, most U.S. pennies were made of steel due to wartime copper shortages. However, a small number were mistakenly struck in copper. These 1943 copper pennies are among the most valuable error coins ever made. If you find one, it could be worth over $100,000, depending on its condition and authenticity.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
This penny was the first year of the Lincoln cent and included the designer’s initials “VDB” on the reverse. Only a limited number were struck at the San Francisco Mint, making the 1909-S VDB extremely rare and desirable. Well-preserved examples often fetch between $50,000 to $75,000 at auction.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
A highly sought-after error coin, the 1955 Doubled Die penny is famous for its distinct doubling of the date and inscriptions. It’s one of the easiest mint errors to spot with the naked eye. If you have one in good condition, it could easily be worth $20,000 or more.
This woman’s incredible garage discovery proves that valuable treasures can be hiding in the most unexpected places. Old coins, especially Lincoln pennies with rare mint marks or errors, are hot commodities among collectors. Take a few minutes to check your coin jars, drawers, or storage boxes—your own $187,500 surprise might be waiting.
FAQ’s:
1. How do I know if my 1943 penny is copper?
A copper 1943 penny won’t stick to a magnet. Steel ones will. You should also have it professionally appraised to confirm.
2. Why is the 1909-S VDB penny so valuable?
It was produced in limited numbers and is the first Lincoln cent to bear the designer’s initials, making it highly collectible.
3. What does “doubled die” mean on a coin?
It refers to a minting error where the coin’s design elements, like the date and lettering, appear doubled due to a misalignment in the die.
4. Where can I get my coin authenticated?
Professional services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) can authenticate and grade your coin.
5. Is it safe to clean old coins before selling them?
No, cleaning can damage the coin and reduce its value significantly. Always keep them in their natural state.