Discover the 10 Most Valuable Pennies Still in Circulation

Finding valuable coins in common circulation is one of the most exciting aspects of the interesting pastime of coin collecting. Usually disregarded because of their low face value, pennies can occasionally be rather valuable. There are still some pennies in circulation today that would fetch hundreds or maybe thousands of dollars. Examining their history, special qualities, and reasons for value, this comprehensive study will look at the ten most valuable pennies you might find in your pocket change.

One 1943 Copper Penny: History and Special Characteristics

In order to save copper for the war effort, the U.S. Mint changed from copper to zinc-coated steel for pennies during World War Two. But in 1943, a little quantity of copper planchets—blanks—from 1942 were used inadvertently. Because they lack the distinctive silver hue, these uncommon copper pennies are readily recognizable from their steel equivalents.

Value
Among the most precious pennies ever manufactured is the 1943 copper penny. Its worth will vary depending on its condition between $100,000 and $1,000,000. On auction, a well-preserved specimen brought in about $200,000.

Double Die Obverse Penny History and Special Characteristics 1969

Famously for its clear doubling of the year and the inscriptions on the obverse (” LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”), the 1969-S Double Die Obverse Penny is This mistake happened during die manufacture when the received die had two mismatched imprints.

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Value in mind
Collectors really want this penny since it is rare and the fault is easily seen. While less-grade coins still cost several thousand dollars, high-grade examples can sell for $50,000 or more.

1992 Reverse Penny History and Special Characteristics Close AM

Unlike the regular pennies where there is a clear gap, the 1992 near AM Reverse penny is a rare variation whereby the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse are near together. This fault resulted from circulation coins being struck from a proof die by mistake.

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Value in general
A 1992 Close AM penny can be valued anything from $500 to $10,000 depending on its condition. Its rareness and the challenge in locating one in circulation define its value.

Double Die Reverse Penny History and Special Characteristics 1983

Especially on the words “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” the 1983 Double Die Reverse penny shows obvious duplication on the reverse side. This doubling happened during die manufacture.

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Value:
Excellent examples of the 1983 Double Die Reverse cent could be worth $500 to $2,000. Collectors value and seek after these pennies even in lesser grades.

1999 Wide AM Reverse Penny History and Special Characteristics

The 1999 Wide AM Reverse penny is the reverse of the 1992 Close AM variant. In this instance, the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse are separated more widely than normal. Another mistake came from using a proof die inadvertently for circulation strikes.

Worth
A 1999 Wide AM cent in perfect shape can be worth $100 to $1,000. These pennies are really rare, hence they are a great discovery in circulation.

1972 Double Die Obverse Penny Development and Special Characteristics

Particularly evident on the year and the words ” LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” the 1972 Double Die Obverse penny shows strong doubling on the obverse. This doubling took place during die-making.

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Value
High-grade examples of the 1972 Double Die Obverse cent could run from $200 to $1,000. Collectors value and seek for these coins even in lesser grades.

1995 Double Die Obverse Penny History and Special Characteristics

Another well-known mistake coin is the 1995 Double Die Obverse Penny, which clearly doubles the obverse words ” LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRusting.” During the hubbing process, this fault came from a misaligned die.

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Value in general
Although not as valuable as some other double die pennies, the 1995 Double Die Obverse cent nevertheless pays $20 to $50 in circulated condition and up to $300 in mint condition.

Small Date Penny History and Special Characteristics 1970-S

The 1970-S Small Date Penny is a variation with a small date unlike the more often used large date variant. Looking at the “7” in the date will let one easily differentiate the little date from the variation with “0”.

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Value:
A 1970-S Small Date cent can be worth $25 to $100 depending on its state. In higher grades, these pennies can get rather more.

1984 Double Ear Penny History and Special Characteristics

Lincoln’s ear of the 1984 Double Ear Penny shows a clear doubling, giving the extra ear lobe impression. This fault happened during die production.

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Value
In uncirculated state, the 1984 Double Ear Penny can be valued $100 to $250. It can get more than face value even in lesser grades.

1998 Wide AM Reverse Penny History and Special Characteristics

On the reverse, the 1998 Wide AM Reverse Penny has a larger spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA,” same as the 1999 Wide AM variant. Additionally causing this mistake was the circulation strikes using a proof die.

Value in general
Excellent condition a 1998 Wide AM penny might be worth $50 to $200. Collectors really value these pennies and they are really rare.

Advice on Spotting Valuable Pennies in Circulation:

1. Examine Your Change

Regularly reviewing your change can help you to identify precious pennies most easily. Note the dates, mint marks, and any odd characteristics that would point to a variation or mistake.

2. Apply a magnifying glass.
   A magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe will let you find variances and mistakes invisible to the unaided eye. Look for doubling, odd letter spacing, and other irregularities.
3. Know Looking for What?
   Learn about the most worthwhile pennies and their special characteristics. Among the several tools at hand are coin guides, websites, and forums devoted to coin collecting.
4. Rolls for Search Coins
   Purchasing pennies from banks and combing through them will raise your chances of coming upon valuable coins. Though it takes time and patience, this approach can be really fulfilling.
5. Attend a Coin Club.
   Participating in a local or online coin club can offer priceless tools and information. Expert collectors can share their knowledge and provide guidance, therefore enabling you to find coins more successfully.