Coins hold value for various reasons, encompassing their historical significance and metal composition. Nevertheless, in nearly all instances, the most valuable coins are those that are the scarcest. Some rare coins have garnered notoriety due to intriguing backstories. One such example is the 1943 copper Lincoln penny, minted in error during a copper shortage in World War II, now fetching up to $1 million. However, lesser-known coins also have the potential to command high prices in the collector’s market.
Many of these valuable coins are Lincoln pennies that might go unnoticed if found in loose change. It’s crucial to note that only coins in prime condition will attain top prices. Below, we delve into four lesser-known coins that carry significant monetary value.
1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny Doubled Die Obverse
Double die errors occur when a coin’s metal is struck multiple times by the die or design stamp, leading to distinctive doubling effects on either the obverse (front), reverse, or both sides. Coins with double die errors in mint or near-mint condition typically sell for substantial sums.
In the case of the Small Date version of the 1970-S Lincoln Penny, the word “LIBERTY” appears less sharp or pronounced compared to other versions, as noted by the Spruce Crafts website. This particular coin is estimated to be valued at $3,500.
1999 Wide ‘AM’ Reverse Lincoln Penny
This variant of the Lincoln cent was produced from 1998 to 2000, with the 1999 edition being the rarest. The U.S. Mint mistakenly employed a proof die to mint coins intended for circulation.
In the wide ‘AM’ version, the letters in “AMERICA” are distinctly separated, differing from the standard specimens where the letters are closer together. Notably, a single coin of this type was auctioned for $3,960 in November 2020, as reported by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) website.
1972 Lincoln Penny Double Die Obverse
Another sought-after double die obverse Lincoln cent originating from the early 1970s is gaining favor among collectors. The phrases “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the coin’s front exhibit the prominent doubling effect, according to a blog post from Liberation of Sound.
The coin’s substantial worth is primarily due to its rarity, with few specimens displaying this specific doubling effect. The highest recorded auction price for this coin stands at $14,400, as documented by PCGS in 2019.
1969-S Lincoln Penny With Doubled Die Obverse
This particular coin, as noted by Spruce Crafts, is deemed “exceedingly rare.” Initial specimens were confiscated by the U.S. Secret Service until the Mint acknowledged their authenticity.
An instance of this coin sold for $66,000 at auction in January 2024, according to PCGS records. However, potential buyers should remain vigilant, as numerous
