Rare Pennies Worth Keeping… Including the 1943 Penny

If you’ve ever checked your change, you may have wondered if some of your coins might be worth more than just their face value. While most pennies are worth just one cent, certain rare pennies, including the famous 1943 penny, are worth far more to collectors—and in some cases, they can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction. So, what makes these pennies so valuable, and how can you tell if you have one in your possession? Let’s take a closer look at the rarest pennies, including the 1943 copper penny, and explore how much they’re worth today.

The 1943 Penny: A Wartime Error

Perhaps the most famous rare penny is the 1943 copper penny. During World War II, the United States was facing shortages of copper, which was needed for the war effort. To conserve the precious metal, the U.S. Mint decided to switch from the usual copper alloy to zinc-coated steel for the production of pennies in 1943.

However, due to a mix-up at the Mint, a small number of pennies were mistakenly struck on copper planchets (the discs used to create the coins). These copper pennies, though extremely rare, are now considered one of the most valuable coins in American history.

Out of the billions of pennies produced that year, only around 40 known 1943 copper pennies have survived to this day. The mistake was so rare that these coins have become a holy grail for collectors. In fact, in 2010, one such penny was sold for a whopping $1.7 million at auction. Today, a 1943 copper penny in good condition can easily fetch over $100,000, and some in pristine condition can be worth even more.

If you think you have a 1943 copper penny, you might want to check it for authenticity. While the steel pennies of 1943 are magnetic and will stick to a magnet, the copper pennies are not. If your penny sticks to a magnet, it’s likely one of the regular steel pennies and not the rare copper variant. Copper pennies also have a reddish-brown hue, whereas steel pennies are silver-gray.

Other Valuable Pennies

While the 1943 copper penny is the most famous, there are other rare pennies worth holding onto as well. Here are some others to keep an eye out for:

1909-S VDB Penny:

This penny is notable for the designer’s initials, “VDB,” which stand for Victor David Brenner, who designed the Lincoln cent. The 1909-S VDB penny was released with the designer’s initials on the reverse side, but public outcry led the Mint to remove them from future releases. This makes the 1909-S VDB penny particularly rare. A well-preserved example can sell for around $1,000 or more.

1955 Double Die Penny:

A double die penny occurs when a coin is struck twice by the die, causing a doubled image. The 1955 double die penny is one of the most famous errors in coin history. The doubled image is most noticeable on the date and the words “In God We Trust” on the obverse. Depending on its condition, this penny can be worth between $1,000 and $3,000.

1970-S Small Date Penny:

In 1970, the U.S. Mint produced pennies with two different types of dates: a large date and a small date. The small date variety is much rarer and can be worth between $100 and $500, depending on its condition. Keep an eye on your 1970 pennies to see if you have a small date version.

1982 Copper Penny:

In 1982, the U.S. Mint transitioned from copper to zinc in the production of pennies. However, some copper pennies were still minted that year. These copper pennies are worth more than their face value, especially in good condition. Depending on the quality of the coin, these pennies can be worth $10 or more.

How to Spot Rare Pennies?

Knowing how to spot a rare penny is key to determining whether your collection is worth holding onto. Here are some tips:

1. Check the Date: The first step is to check the date on your penny. Many rare pennies, like the 1943 copper penny or the 1955 double die penny, are valuable because of the year they were minted.
2. Inspect the Material: Pay attention to the material of the penny. As mentioned, the 1943 copper penny and the 1982 copper penny are worth more due to their unique composition. Use a magnet to check if the penny is made of steel or copper.
3. Look for Minting Errors: Minting errors, such as double die or off-center strikes, can make a penny more valuable. Look closely at your pennies to see if any have unusual features.
4. Condition Matters: The condition of your penny plays a significant role in its value. Pennies in excellent condition, with clear details and minimal wear, are worth much more than those that are worn down or damaged.

How Much Are Rare Pennies Worth?

Rare pennies can vary greatly in value. For example, a 1943 copper penny can be worth over $1 million, while a 1909-S VDB penny in excellent condition might fetch around $1,000. Other rare pennies, such as the 1955 double die and 1982 copper pennies, can be worth anywhere from $100 to $10,000 depending on their condition.

If you’re unsure about the value of your penny, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional coin grader or check out official resources like the U.S. Mint, which offers guidance on rare and valuable coins.

Conclusion

While the majority of pennies you encounter are worth just one cent, there are a select few that are worth far more due to their rarity and historical significance. The 1943 copper penny, in particular, is a coin that can fetch a life-changing sum of money. If you happen to stumble upon one of these rare pennies, you could find yourself holding onto a treasure worth thousands—or even millions—of dollars. Keep an eye on your change and check your pennies; you may be sitting on a small fortune!

For more information on rare coins and how to identify them, visit the U.S. Mint or consult a professional coin dealer.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.