I get tagged in posts like this constantly — and there’s a reason for it.
Many people believe pennies are useless. If that’s how you feel, you can scroll on.
But if you’re even a little curious about hidden money in everyday coins, keep reading 
Because there is a little-known penny that can be found in normal pocket change and is worth at least $100, sometimes much more.
Let me show you exactly what to look for 
Why Some Pennies Are Worth Real Money
Most pennies are only worth one cent — but minting errors and design varieties can turn ordinary coins into valuable collectibles.
Some of these coins:
Were made with missing details
Slipped past Mint quality control
Circulated for years before anyone noticed
That’s exactly what happened with this penny.
Step 1: Find the Designer Initials on a Penny
Almost every modern Lincoln penny has a small set of initials on the back.
These letters are:
“FG”
They stand for Frank Gasparro, the designer of the Lincoln Memorial reverse.
Where to Look
- Flip the penny to the reverse (back)
- Look near the bottom right of the Lincoln Memorial
- You should see tiny letters that say FG
Up close, it looks like a small but clear “FG” stamped into the coin.
Step 2: Look for the Missing “FG” Error
Here’s where it gets interesting.
If you find a 1969-D penny that:
Does NOT have the “FG” initials
Shows a clean, smooth area where they should be
You just found a 1969-D “No FG” Lincoln Cent
How Much Is a 1969-D No FG Penny Worth?
Even in circulated condition, this penny carries real value.
Estimated Values
- Circulated condition: $100+
- Nice condition: $200–$500
- High-grade examples: Even more at auction
The value comes from:
Missing designer initials (mint error)
Limited number known
Strong demand from error-coin collectors
Important Collector Tips
Before you get too excited, keep these rules in mind:
Do NOT clean the coin
Do NOT scratch or polish it
Do NOT assume all missing FG pennies are valuable
Some missing initials are caused by wear, not mint error.
True No FG coins will still show sharp detail elsewhere on the coin.
If you think you found one:
Compare with verified examples
Take clear photos
Consider professional grading (PCGS or NGC)
Why People Miss This Penny All the Time
Most people:
- Never look at the back of a penny
- Don’t know what “FG” means
- Spend these coins without a second thought
That’s why coins like this stay in circulation for decades — and why knowledge creates opportunity 
Final Thought
Pennies are not useless.
Some are hidden assets disguised as spare change.
The 1969-D No FG penny is proof that:
- Small details matter
- Errors create value
- Pocket change can still surprise you
So next time you get change back… take a second look
That one-cent coin might be worth $100 or more
