Are You Sitting on a Fortune?
At Pennyverse.info, we’ve identified three ultra-rare Lincoln pennies that could be hiding in your spare change — and they’re worth $10,000 to $30,000 each!
These valuable coins are still turning up in everyday circulation, estate sales, and forgotten jars. Here’s how to spot them.
Watch our full video analysis here
1. 1971 Doubled Die Obverse Penny — Worth Up to $30,000
Why It’s So Valuable:
Extreme doubling on Lincoln’s profile and the word “LIBERTY”
Fewer than 10 confirmed by PCGS and NGC
Last auction sale: $30,000 (graded MS-65 Red)
How to Spot It:
Use a 10x loupe or microscope
Look for:
- Doubled eyelid and beard
- Thick, separated letters in “LIBERTY”
2. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny — Worth Up to $20,000
Key Features:
Strong doubling visible even without magnification
Only 40–50 known examples
Recent sale: $20,000 (graded AU-55)
Where the Doubling Appears:
- The date “1969”
- “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- “LIBERTY”
Note: This is not to be confused with machine doubling — this is true hub doubling!
3. 1992 Close AM Penny — Worth Up to $10,000
What Makes It Rare:
The “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are nearly touching
Caused by a transitional die error
Top-graded coins have sold for $10,000+
Easy Identification Tip:
Compare to a regular 1992 penny — the Close AM variety has narrow spacing
Check with a ruler or loupe
Grading & Value Chart
| Coin | AU-50 | MS-63 | MS-65+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1971 DDO | $5,000 | $15,000 | $30,000 |
| 1969-S DDO | $3,000 | $10,000 | $20,000 |
| 1992 Close AM | $500 | $3,000 | $10,000 |
Where to Search for These Rare Pennies
Old bank coin rolls (ask for customer-wrapped ones)
Estate sales and antique collections
Inherited coin jars (check every coin carefully!)
Garage sales or flea markets
What To Do If You Find One
- Handle by the edges only (no fingerprints!)
- Do not clean the coin – cleaning destroys value
- Place it in a protective holder
- Get it certified by PCGS or NGC
- Consider selling at top-tier auctions like Heritage or GreatCollections
