Pennies, often overlooked as the least valuable of coins, have captivated collectors and numismatists for centuries.
Though their face value is only a cent, certain rare pennies have fetched astonishing sums at auctions, turning humble copper into prized treasures.
These remarkable coins often carry unique histories, errors, or exceptional conditions that elevate their worth.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 13 most expensive pennies ever sold at auction, delving into their backgrounds and the reasons behind their impressive valuations.
1. 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Cent – $1.7 Million
The 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Cent is one of the most famous and sought-after error coins.
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to using zinc-coated steel for pennies to save copper for the war effort.
However, a few bronze blanks were accidentally struck in 1943, resulting in this rare and valuable coin.
The 1943-D, minted in Denver, is one of the rarest, with only one known example.
In 2010, this penny sold for an astounding $1.7 million at auction, setting a record for the most expensive penny ever sold.
2. 1943-S Lincoln Bronze Cent – $1 Million
Similar to its Denver counterpart, the 1943-S Lincoln Bronze Cent was an accidental creation.
Minted in San Francisco, this coin is one of the few 1943 pennies made from bronze instead of steel.
Its rarity and the intrigue surrounding its existence have made it a prized possession for collectors.
In 2012, one such coin was auctioned for $1 million, underscoring the high demand and value placed on these error coins.
3. 1792 Birch Cent – $2.58 Million
The 1792 Birch Cent is not just a penny; it’s a piece of American history.
Designed by Robert Birch, this coin is one of the earliest prototypes of the U.S. cent.
Only a few Birch Cents were produced, making them incredibly rare.
In 2015, one of these coins sold for $2.58 million at auction, highlighting its significance and value.
The Birch Cent’s historical importance and scarcity make it one of the most coveted coins among collectors.
4. 1944-S Steel Lincoln Penny – $373,750
The 1944-S Steel Lincoln Penny is another notable error coin.
In 1944, the U.S. Mint reverted to using copper for pennies, but a few steel blanks from the previous year were mistakenly used.
The 1944-S, minted in San Francisco, is one of the rarest steel pennies.
In 2008, one of these coins sold for $373,750 at auction.
Its rarity and the fascinating story of its creation contribute to its high value.
5. 1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny – $258,500
The 1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny is a coin with a story.
It marks the first year the Lincoln Cent was issued and features the initials “VDB” of its designer, Victor David Brenner, on the reverse.
The matte proof finish and the inclusion of the designer’s initials make this coin unique.
Only a few dozen of these coins exist, and their rarity makes them highly sought after.
In 2014, one sold for $258,500 at auction.
6. 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny – $336,000
The 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny is a standout error coin.
The doubling of the date and lettering on the obverse side occurred during the minting process, making this coin unique.
Only three examples are known to exist, adding to its rarity and allure.
In 2018, one of these pennies fetched $336,000 at auction.
Its rarity and the clear doubling make it a prized coin for collectors.
7. 1943 Lincoln Cent Struck on Bronze Planchet – $840,000
Another 1943 bronze penny, this time without a mint mark, has also fetched a high price at auction.
In 2013, a 1943 Lincoln Cent struck on a bronze planchet sold for $840,000.
Like its counterparts, this coin was a result of leftover bronze blanks being used instead of the intended steel.
The story behind these error coins and their rarity continues to captivate collectors, driving up their value.
8. 1793 Chain Cent – $2.35 Million
The 1793 Chain Cent is another early American coin that holds significant historical value.
It was the first penny issued by the U.S. Mint, featuring a chain design on the reverse.
The design was controversial at the time and was quickly changed, making the Chain Cent rare. In 2011, a 1793 Chain Cent sold for $2.35 million at auction.
Its historical importance and scarcity make it one of the most valuable pennies ever sold.
9. 1914-D Lincoln Penny – $152,750
The 1914-D Lincoln Penny is a key date for collectors.
Minted in Denver, this coin is one of the lowest mintage issues in the Lincoln Cent series.
Its scarcity, especially in high grades, makes it highly desirable.
In 2017, a 1914-D penny in exceptional condition sold for $152,750 at auction.
The coin’s rarity and the difficulty of finding it in top condition contribute to its high value.
10. 1856 Flying Eagle Cent – $172,500
The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent is a transitional coin, representing a shift from large cents to the smaller, more practical size used today.
Only about 2,000 of these coins were minted, primarily as patterns.
Their low mintage and historical significance make them highly sought after.
In 2004, one sold for $172,500 at auction.
The Flying Eagle Cent’s rarity and role in the evolution of U.S. coinage contribute to its value.
11. 1922 No D Plain Lincoln Penny – $74,750
The 1922 No D Plain Lincoln Penny is a notable error coin.
Due to a die wear issue at the Denver Mint, some 1922 pennies were struck without the “D” mint mark.
This error, combined with the low mintage of Denver pennies that year, makes the No D Plain Lincoln Penny rare.
In 2008, one of these coins sold for $74,750 at auction. Its rarity and the intriguing story behind its creation make it a valuable collector’s item.
12. 1877 Indian Head Penny – $149,500
The 1877 Indian Head Penny is a key date in the series.
It had a low mintage of only 852,500, making it one of the rarest Indian Head pennies.
Collectors highly prize this coin, especially in high grades.
In 2007, an 1877 Indian Head Penny in exceptional condition sold for $149,500 at auction.
Its rarity and the challenge of finding it in top condition drive its value.
13. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny – $117,500
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous and sought-after pennies among collectors.
Minted in San Francisco, it features the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner, on the reverse.
The 1909-S VDB penny had a relatively low mintage of 484,000, making it rare.
In 2014, one of these coins sold for $117,500 at auction.
Its significance as the first year of the Lincoln Cent series and its low mintage make it highly valuable.
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Conclusion
The world of rare pennies is fascinating, with each coin telling a unique story of history, error, or exceptional preservation.
From accidental creations like the 1943 bronze cents to early American prototypes like the 1792 Birch Cent, these pennies have captivated collectors and fetched remarkable prices at auction.
Whether driven by historical significance, rarity, or unique errors, these pennies prove that even the smallest denomination can hold immense value.
As interest in numismatics continues to grow, these extraordinary coins will likely remain prized treasures, showcasing the rich history and intriguing tales behind each humble penny.