Coin collecting has captivated enthusiasts for ages, serving both as a pastime and an investment opportunity. Explore these precious pennies and discover the reasons behind their collective worth of millions.
1804 Silver Dollar Class I — $4.1 million
The 1804 Silver Dollar, often referred to as the “King of Coins,” is categorized into three distinct classes, with Class I fetching approximately $4.1 million at auction.
Even though this coin bears the date 1804, it was actually produced later, specifically after the 1830s. The obverse features an image of Lady Liberty along with the word “liberty,” while the reverse showcases a golden eagle surrounded by 13 stars.
1922-D Lincoln, No D, Strong Reverse, Die Pair 2 — $63,000
This coin weighs in at 3.11 grams and is composed of copper, tin, and zinc. Similar to the previous coin, it also lacks a mint mark, a result of a malfunctioning die at the Denver Mint.
The newly created head die accounts for the crisper design seen on the reverse compared to the front of the coin. Among its various iterations, Die Pair II is regarded as the “authentic” version. This particular piece fetched $63,000 at an auction in Baltimore in 2018.
1873 Doubled ‘Closed 3’ Indian Head Penny — $12,650
The Indian Head one cent penny features two distinct design variations. Its uniqueness is highlighted by the space in the numeral ‘three’ of the year “1873.” A pronounced gap indicates an “Open 3,” whereas a narrower gap is classified as a “Closed 3.”
Due to its distinctive double appearance and a limited mintage of just one million, the “Closed 3” Indian Head penny commands a greater value than one might anticipate. Weighing 3.11 grams and composed of copper, tin, and zinc, this rare coin fetched a price of $12,650 at sale.
1914-S Lincoln Penny — $105,800
The 1914-S Lincoln Penny is a bronze coin featuring a diameter of 19 mm and a weight of 3.11 grams. Its elevated copper content contributes to its vibrant red hue, which has remained intact thanks to limited circulation and excellent preservation techniques.
The 1914-S Lincoln Penny, among more than four million produced in San Francisco, garnered significant attention when it was auctioned in August 2006. Retaining its original red hue, this particular coin fetched an impressive $105,800 for its previous owners, Bowers and Merena.
1907 Golden Eagle Wire Edge — $2.8 million
Created by Christian Gobrecht, the Ten Dollar Liberty Head Gold Eagle was produced from 1838 until 1907. This coin was in circulation for an impressive 69 years, establishing it as one of the most widely circulated coins in American history. The front of the coin features a stunning depiction of Lady Liberty, who is adorned with a Coronet that bears the inscription “Liberty.”
On the back, there is a majestic heraldic eagle depicted. Given the scarcity of the final mintage available in a graded mint state of 64, this coin holds significant worth. In fact, one specimen was auctioned off in 2017.
1793 Flowing Hair Liberty Cap Large Cent Penny — $19,950
The 1793 Flowing Hair Liberty Cap Large Cent Penny, valued at $19,950, features a beautiful depiction of Miss Liberty and comes in several variations. This particular design, known as type III, was released toward the end of 1793 and was created to commemorate the American Revolutionary War.
The designated weight for the coin was originally set at 13.48 grams, although it was later decreased to approximately 11 grams. This alteration resulted in numerous coins featuring smooth edges, a trait that would become uncommon in subsequent years. Recently, this copper large cent was auctioned on eBay for an impressive $19,950.
1922 Lincoln No D Strong Reverse and Weak Obverse Wheat Penny — $48,000
Among the three variations, this particular coin stands out distinctly. The front side features crisp edges around the portrait, a result of the new die, in contrast to the previously blurred image that appeared on the obverse.
The coin lacked a mint mark, and the quantity of verified pieces is lower than the true mintage because NGC declined to attribute it for over 15 years. Who would have thought that this 3.11-gram bronze penny could fetch a staggering $48,000?
2007 C$1M Coin — $4.1 million
Presenting a coin whose value is as impressive as its dimensions. The massive 2007 C$1M coin, weighing in at an astounding 100 kg, is crafted from 99.999% pure gold and stands as one of the most iconic coins in history.
Although the coin had a nominal value of only one million dollars, it fetched an impressive $4.1 million at auction. This particular piece was created by the Royal Canadian Mint for a special event, which explains the significant increase in its sale price.
1969 S Lincoln Penny Doubled Die Obverse — $126,500
This copper-zinc penny, weighing approximately 3.11 grams, was struck in San Francisco. The double image seen on this coin may have resulted from inadequate die preparation. What adds to its uniqueness is that in 1970, individuals began to counterfeit this doubled die penny in an attempt to profit from its value.
In an effort to prevent any repercussions, the government destroyed five coins. Subsequently, in January 2008, a pristine, red-brown double die obverse Lincoln penny fetched an impressive $126,500 at auction.
1913 Liberty Head Nickel — $4.5 million
The 1913 Liberty Head Nickel ranks among the world’s most precious coins. Its astonishing value stems from the fact that only five specimens were released to the public, with all others being destroyed. Over the years, speculation has arisen about the existence of a potential sixth coin, but no definitive evidence has emerged to support this claim.
The most exceptional 1913 Liberty Nickel was appraised at a minimum of $5 million and was sold for that amount in 2007. However, in 2018, the coin changed hands again, fetching a price of just $4.56 million.
1933 Double Eagle — $7.6 million
Regarded as one of the most infamous coins in American history, the 1933 Double Eagle holds immense value for collectors and investors alike. However, acquiring this coin is fraught with challenges, primarily because possessing it is nearly considered illegal. Additionally, the Double Eagle is often associated with misfortune for those who have possessed it.
This situation exemplifies Condition Rarity, as these coins were originally not intended for public circulation, yet some were inadvertently distributed. Only a limited number have survived the passage of time.
1944-D Lincoln Penny — $115,000
The 1944-D Lincoln Penny, valued at $115,000, is composed of zinc-plated silver and has a weight of approximately 2.70 grams. This particular penny was inadvertently produced by being struck on a blank silver coin in 1943. Nevertheless, the use of copper planchets resumed in 1944.
Historical documentation indicates that silver coins were produced with both “S” and “D” mint marks, yet the estimated quantity of Denver-minted coins is limited to around ten. In August 2007, Heritage Auctions auctioned an uncirculated example of this coin, which fetched an impressive price of approximately $115,000.
1877 Indian Head Penny — $149,500
The 1877 Indian Head penny stands out as the most elusive coin in its series. As previously noted, fully red specimens of Indian Head pennies are exceptionally rare. Furthermore, just 852,500 of these coins were minted in total. Approximately ten million Indian Head pennies were pulled from circulation during the economic downturn, with 9,821,500 of those being reissued.
It’s noteworthy that this particular penny is among the rare few that have survived in such pristine condition. When it was auctioned by Heritage Auctions in August 2007, it retained its striking copper-red hue and sold for an impressive $149,500.
1926-S Lincoln Penny — $149,500
This 3.11-gram coin was produced at the San Francisco mint. That particular year saw an unusually low production rate, though the reasons remain unclear. Generally, the quality of 1926 coins was subpar on both sides because the dies had been extensively worn. In contrast, this specific penny stands out as one of the rare examples struck with new dies, resulting in superior detail.
The 1926-S Lincoln Penny, discovered in remarkable condition, was auctioned off in January 2006 in Orlando. Heritage Auctions realized a stunning $149,500 from this exquisite addition to their collection.
1864 Indian Head Penny With ‘L’ on the Ribbon — $161,000
In mid-1864, the U.S. Mint transitioned from using a copper-nickel blend to a bronze alloy, resulting in a composition of copper, tin, and zinc for this coin. Additionally, the letter “L” was introduced on the ribbon trailing behind Lady Liberty.
Out of the five million Indian Head Pennies minted in 1864, only a select few have survived in pristine, uncirculated condition. One such coin, weighing 3.11 grams, was auctioned by Heritage Auctions in Pittsburgh in October 2011, fetching an impressive price of $161,000.
1914-D Lincoln Penny — $158,625
The 1914-D Lincoln Penny faced numerous challenges over the years. With a high rate of circulation, these coins experienced low survival rates, making it difficult to find well-preserved examples today. Additionally, some collectors have resorted to counterfeiting by modifying 1944 D Lincoln Pennies to mimic the 1914-D version.
The 1914-D Lincoln penny features smaller mint marks, with a distinct separation between the digits nine and four. In May 2018, an uncirculated version of this penny fetched an impressive $158,625. This coin weighs 3.11 grams and is composed of copper, tin, and zinc.
1872 Indian Head Penny – $126,500
One notable bronze coin, weighing approximately 3.11 grams, is the Indian Head Penny that fetched $126,500 at auction in Milwaukee in August 2007. This pristine, fully red specimen is exceptionally rare and holds the distinction of having the lowest mintage within the Indian Head series.
The 1872 Indian Head Penny is a remarkable find, as these coins are exceptionally scarce today and often discovered in less than ideal conditions. In contrast, this particular penny originated from a newly minted die and was unearthed in pristine, uncirculated quality. It fetched an impressive $126,500 at Heritage Auctions.
1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny — $204,000
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny, weighing 3.11 grams and exhibiting a striking copper-red hue, stands out as one of the most renowned numismatic errors ever. Made from a blend of copper, tin, and zinc, these pennies were inadvertently produced in bronze during 1943. In 1947, a high school student discovered one of these rare coins among his pocket change.
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny made its debut at auction in January 2019 through Heritage Auctions. Interestingly, there are accounts indicating that Stack Bowers Galleries had previously sold a different bronze penny from this series for $164,500 back in 2013.
1795 Reeded Edge Cent — $1.26 Million
The 1795 Reeded Edge Cent is among the most elusive and significant varieties of large cents, facing what is known as Condition Rarity. To date, only seven specimens have been verified, and all are in lower grades. The highest quality example recognized is a VG10, as graded by PCGS.
In 2008, this coin marked a historic milestone as the first large cent to achieve a sale price exceeding one million dollars. Originally designed for experimental purposes rather than public circulation, it’s no surprise that only seven of these coins remain in existence.
1943-D Lincoln Bronze Penny — $1,700,000
In contrast to the typical zinc-coated steel pennies, the 1943-D Lincoln Bronze penny was made using a bronze composition. This particular coin stands out as the sole known example of its kind minted in Denver. In addition, approximately 20 bronze alloy coins have been discovered from the Philadelphia and San Francisco Mints.
The 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Penny, produced at the Denver mint, has a lightweight composition of just 3.11 grams, consisting of copper and tin. In a private transaction in New Jersey in 2010, it fetched an impressive $1,700,000 for Legend Numismatics.
1856 Flying Eagle Penny — $172,500
The renowned 1856 Flying Eagle Penny, weighing 4.70 grams, was crafted from a blend of copper and nickel. Its production spanned a brief timeframe as the government opted to diminish its diameter and incorporate different materials into the copper composition in 1856, primarily due to financial constraints.
At the same time, the introduction of Flying Eagle pennies marked the replacement of foreign gold and silver currency. The production of these coins was short-lived, as they were quickly replaced by the Indian Head pennies. Their unique design and scarcity captured the interest of collectors, leading to a sale in 2004 for an impressive $172,500.
1909 V.D.B. Matte Proof Lincoln Penny — $258,500
The 1909 V.D.B. Matte Proof Lincoln penny holds the distinction of being the inaugural Lincoln penny. Initially, it featured the designer’s initials “V.D.B” at the base, although these were later eliminated. This particular penny stands out as it was minted using a matte proof die, setting it apart from other pennies that also bore initials.
Prior to the elimination of the designer’s initials, a mere 1,194 pieces were minted. This particular 3.11-gram penny, composed of copper, tin, and zinc, was discovered in remarkable condition and fetched $258,500 at Heritage Auctions in August 2014.
1343 Edward III Florin — $6.8 million
Although many coins can be classified as old, this particular one is truly a relic from the past. Dating back to 1343, the Edward III Florin commands a staggering price of $6.8 million, as only three specimens are known to have endured through the ages.
Known as the “double leopard,” this coin was initially valued at six shillings when it was first created. Today, its estimated worth stands at $6.8 million, reflecting the amount it fetched at a recent auction a few years back.
1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny — $1 Million
This 3.11-gram penny was inadvertently produced in bronze, similar to the 1943-D Bronze Lincoln penny. Since it lacks a mint mark, it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint.
Reports indicate that there are fewer than twelve 1943 bronze pennies from Philadelphia, with two of them recently receiving certification. Notably, this particular coin is the sole 1943 penny from Philadelphia that has been graded as “red.” In 2018, this rare piece was sold privately in Florida for a staggering $1 million.
1888 Indian Head Penny — Up to $39,064
The 1888 Indian Head Penny, produced in the late 19th century, possesses a distinctive characteristic that enhances its worth. This coin appears to display the year 1888 over an earlier 1887 date, with the faint outline of the number seven visible beneath the eight. This intriguing detail adds a remarkable appeal to this particular penny.
The 1888 Indian Head Penny, crafted by engraver James B. Longacre at the Philadelphia mint, holds significant value among collectors. Coins rated in “good” condition can fetch prices exceeding $1,300, while those in pristine mint condition can soar to nearly $40,000!
1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Wheat Cent — $17,057
The 1955 Lincoln Wheat Cent features a notable minting mistake that adds extra excitement for numismatists. This relatively contemporary coin is prized for its unique error, where the inscription “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the term “LIBERTY” appear twice due to a mishap in the production process.
The date of minting, 1955, is clearly shown in a duplicated format. What may have initially been seen as a mistake has significantly increased the coin’s worth.
1917 Lincoln Wheat Cent (Doubled Die Obverse) — $6,504
Struck at the Philadelphia mint, this 1917 Lincoln Wheat Cent features a subtle yet distinct design imperfection that enhances its appeal among collectors. The imagery on coins is created through a stamping process using a tool called a die.
Although the dies usually create a sharp and precise design, occasional overlaps can occur. In the case of this 1917 Lincoln penny, both the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the year 1917 were struck twice. Although this imperfection is subtle, it significantly enhances the coin’s value.
1909 Indian Head Cent — $1,318
In the early 20th century, there was a growing push to update and redesign the penny. A significant number of people believed that the “Indian Head” motif was no longer relevant, and they sought a coin that would honor President Lincoln.
As 1909 progressed, the output of Indian Head pennies significantly decreased, and by the end of summer, the Lincoln cent took its place. The limited mintage of Indian Head pennies during that year makes the 1909 coins highly sought after by collectors.
1936 Wheat Cents — $2,524
Referred to as “Wheat Cents” due to the depiction of two wheat stalks on the reverse side, these pennies underwent a design modification in 1959, replacing the wheat motif with an image of the Lincoln Memorial located in Washington, D.C.
The 1936 Wheat Cent holds significant value due to a minting mistake that resulted in the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the term “LIBERTY” being impressed two times. While the repetition of the motto may not be easily seen, the doubled appearance of the year 1936 is much more apparent.
1858 Flying Eagle Cent Penny — $11,083
Although design imperfections in various items typically lead to complications, flaws in coin production can significantly increase their worth. The 1858 Flying Eagle Cent serves as an excellent illustration of how an engraving error can elevate a coin’s desirability among collectors.
This coin exhibits two prominent imperfections. The first is a clear overlap where the date 1858 was stamped over 1857. Additionally, a small “die chip” can be found positioned above the year 1858, serving as another design characteristic to note.
1871 Indian Head Cent (Shallow “N”) — $1,082
The Indian Head Cents minted in 1871 utilized both an older and a newer die. The older die, likely less robust, struggled to produce sharp lettering.
Consequently, the “N” in “ONE CENT” on the reverse side of the penny is recognized for its “shallow” printing. While the die was later swapped out, resulting in bolder lettering, collectors continue to appreciate the “shallow” variety of the 1871 Indian Head Cent.
1894 Indian Head Cent (Double Date) — $1,268
Although double dates in personal experiences may not always be enjoyable, they can significantly increase the appeal and worth of coins. The 1894 Indian Head Cent is a notable example, as it features a rare minting mistake where the year “94” appears twice. Only a limited quantity of these coins were produced, making them highly sought after.
During this era, it was common for dates to be repunched or duplicated, as the process of setting dates on dies was still done manually. Because not every coin produced in that year features this particular error, those with the double date are viewed as more valuable.
1869 Indian Head Cent (“9 Over 9” Variety) – $1,226
The manual application of dates on many dies allowed for significant potential for mistakes. A frequent type of mistake involved the re-striking of dates into the metal. Although the repeated digits can be challenging to detect, coin enthusiasts highly regard these types of errors in their evaluations.
The 1869 Indian Head Cent showcases a notable re-punching mistake, where the “69” from the year 1869 appears twice. Elements of the original numbers can still be seen beneath the date.
1826 Coronet Liberty Head Large Cent — $3,125
It appears that women continue to face challenges, despite embodying the essence of American freedom. When master engraver Robert Scot introduced his coin showcasing the goddess Liberty in 1816, the design was criticized as “a remarkably unattractive representation of Ms. Liberty.”
While the depiction of the female figure on the coin saw a significant redesign in 1836, this particular piece showcases Robert Scot’s initial artwork. The Coronet Liberty Head coins were ultimately succeeded by the Flying Eagle coins in 1857.
1992 D Lincoln Memorial Cent (Close AM Variety) — $558
When individuals envision coins of great worth, their minds often drift to ancient artifacts or sunken treasure troves. However, it may come as a surprise that some rare pennies, minted long after your birth, hold significant value!
The 1992 D Lincoln Memorial Cent, produced in Denver, Colorado, showcases a design by renowned coin engraver Frank Gasparro. Its significant value stems from the distinctive proximity of the letters “A” and “M” in the word America, which characterizes this modern penny.
1821 Coronet Liberty Head Large Cent — $12,535
Coins from this era are commonly known as Matron Head cents, attributed to the mature visage of Lady Liberty. On this coin, Lady Liberty is depicted with a headband that bears the inscription “LIBERTY.”
The 1821 Coronet Liberty Head Large Cent is a highly sought-after piece among coin enthusiasts, primarily due to its incorporation of the original design by artist Robert Scot. Given that only 389,000 of these coins were produced, they are regarded as both rare and precious within the numismatic community.
1795 Cap Large Cent – $285,279
As with many collectibles, rarity significantly enhances an item’s worth. Specialists believe that merely three of these distinctive coins were produced. This particular type, part of the “Liberty Cap” series, has sparked considerable discussion among numismatists, some of whom contend that this coin may not have been struck at the Philadelphia mint at all.
Rather than being produced by the official mint, these coins were created by an individual named John Harper, who sought to establish a contract with the government for coin production. This particular version, featuring the phrase “ONE HUNDRED FOR A DOLLAR” inscribed on its edge, holds significant value.
1857 Flying Eagle Cent — $1,027 – $9,669
The 1857 Flying Eagle cent holds significant value as it represents a pivotal shift in American currency. By 1856, discussions were underway to phase out the larger and costlier Large Cent. Consequently, in 1857, the U.S. Mint introduced a newly designed, smaller cent that showcased a majestic eagle in flight.
This year also signified the start of large-scale coin production, with over 17 million coins struck. Meanwhile, proof coins, which are the initial examples of the Flying Eagle series, can command prices in the range of tens of thousands of dollars.
1999 Lincoln Memorial Cent — $558
Although numerous coins in this compilation are appraised at thousands or even millions of dollars, we wanted to highlight this unique penny due to its relatively recent minting. Finding a 1999 penny is relatively common, which means you might have a hidden treasure lurking in your sofa cushions!
The distinguishing feature of this particular Lincoln Memorial Cent is the noticeable spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in the word America, setting it apart from others.
1907 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle — $7.6 million
The Saint-Gaudens double eagle is widely regarded as one of the most exquisite coins created by the United States. In an effort to rejuvenate the nation’s coinage, President Roosevelt enlisted the famous sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens to design a new $20 gold coin, addressing the need for a fresh approach to the outdated currency system of the time.
The coin was primarily struck with a high-relief design. However, this presented challenges once the coin was no longer in circulation, leading to a decision to lower the relief to facilitate production.
1943-S Lincoln Cent — $282,000
The 1943-S Lincoln Cent, weighing in at 3.11 grams, serves as an excellent illustration of minting errors. This particular penny was erroneously produced on a bronze planchet rather than the intended zinc-coated steel. It is believed that no more than six of these coins remain in existence today.
Among the six coins produced in San Francisco, one was graded as the second-highest quality 1943-S bronze cent. This particular piece was auctioned in California in February 2016, fetching a remarkable price of $282,000.
1958 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny — $336,000
This bronze penny has a weight of 3.11 grams. The presence of a double image is attributed to issues with the dies or mistakes during the minting process. It is considered a rare specimen, with estimates suggesting that merely three examples of this coin still exist today.
Composed of a blend of copper, tin, and zinc, this coin’s striking red hue has significantly enhanced its worth. In March 2018, it fetched an impressive $336,000 during the Stacks Bowers Galleries Auction held at the Baltimore Coin Show.
1794/5 Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar — $10 million
Can a coin really fetch such a hefty price? Absolutely. In January 2013, the 1794/5 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar was auctioned off for an astonishing $10 million.
The 1794/5 Flowing Hair Silver/Copper Dollar holds the distinction of being the inaugural dollar coin produced by the United States government, and it was in circulation for just a single year. Collectors who managed to acquire this coveted piece take immense pride in their possession, recognizing its crucial importance in the numismatic heritage of the nation.
1944-S Lincoln Steel Penny — $373,750
Initially, the plan was for these coins to be produced using a bronze alloy composed of 95% copper and a small amount of tin. However, due to an error, all three mints inadvertently utilized zinc-coated steel blanks instead. This mistake ultimately contributed to the rarity and uniqueness of these coins today.
A pristine 1944-S Lincoln Steel Penny fetched an impressive $373,750 at a Heritage Auctions event held in Baltimore in August 2008. This lightweight coin, made of zinc-coated steel, has a total weight of just 2.70 grams.
1787 Brasher Doubloon — $7.4 million
The 1787 Brasher Doubloon represents a pivotal chapter in the history of American coinage. It holds the distinction of being the first gold coin produced by the United States. The most valuable version of this coin showcases the Brasher hallmark initials, which are engraved on the eagle’s chest; it is both the inaugural and the sole example of its kind.
The coin is made up of 89% gold, 6% silver, and 9% copper, with the rest consisting of various other materials. It has recently returned to the marketplace.
