In a surprising move, former President Donald Trump recently announced that he had directed the U.S. Treasury to halt the production of pennies, citing the coin as costly and wasteful.
This decision has reignited interest in pennies currently in circulation, especially those considered rare and valuable by collectors.
While the penny’s future remains uncertain, certain editions continue to appreciate in value. Here are 12 of the most valuable pennies still in circulation today and their estimated worth.
1. 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Wheat Penny
One of the rarest and most expensive pennies ever, the 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Wheat Penny was mistakenly struck in bronze instead of steel. Only one is confirmed to exist.
- Estimated Value: Up to $2.3 million
- Why It’s Valuable: A rare error coin with historical significance
2. 1944-D Lincoln Penny (Zinc-Coated Steel)
During World War II, most pennies were made from recycled shell casings, but a few 1944-D pennies were mistakenly struck in steel.
- Estimated Value: $100,000–$500,000
- Why It’s Valuable: An extremely rare minting mistake
3. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
This was the first Lincoln cent ever produced, designed by Victor David Brenner. The “VDB” initials caused controversy, leading to a short-lived mintage.
- Estimated Value: $600–$2,000 (depending on condition)
- Why It’s Valuable: Low mintage and historical significance
4. 1872 Indian Head Penny
With a low mintage of only 4 million, this penny is highly sought after.
- Estimated Value: $800–$3,500
- Why It’s Valuable: Scarcity and age
5. 1969-S Lincoln Penny – Doubled Die Obverse
This error coin features a double image on the date and inscription.
- Estimated Value: $35,000–$100,000
- Why It’s Valuable: Rare minting error
6. 1926-S Lincoln Penny
A low-mintage coin from the San Francisco Mint, it remains a valuable find in circulation.
- Estimated Value: $50–$500
- Why It’s Valuable: Scarcity and demand among collectors
7. 1877 Indian Head Penny
The rarest Indian Head penny due to a low production year.
- Estimated Value: $1,000–$5,000
- Why It’s Valuable: One of the scarcest 19th-century pennies
8. 1914-D Lincoln Penny
This penny had one of the lowest mintages among Lincoln cents.
- Estimated Value: $300–$4,000
- Why It’s Valuable: Hard to find in high grades
9. 1864 Indian Head Penny – “L” on Ribbon
A design variation featuring an “L” on the ribbon behind Liberty’s head.
- Estimated Value: $100–$1,000
- Why It’s Valuable: Rare variety from the Civil War era
10. 1943 Lincoln Penny (Bronze Alloy)
Most 1943 pennies were made of steel, but a few were mistakenly struck in bronze.
- Estimated Value: $100,000–$500,000
- Why It’s Valuable: One of the rarest Lincoln cents ever made
11. 1856 Flying Eagle Cent
One of the earliest small cents produced by the U.S. Mint.
- Estimated Value: $3,000–$15,000
- Why It’s Valuable: Low mintage and historical importance
12. 1909 Lincoln Penny – VDB Matte Proof
A special proof version of the first Lincoln penny, featuring the designer’s initials.
- Estimated Value: $1,000–$10,000
- Why It’s Valuable: Limited proof production makes it highly collectible
The End of Penny Production: What It Means
Trump’s decision to halt new penny production aligns with ongoing debates about eliminating the one-cent coin. The cost to produce a single penny (about 2.7 cents) has been a major argument for discontinuation.
With no new pennies entering circulation, existing pennies—especially rare ones—are expected to rise in value. Coin collectors and investors are now paying closer attention to older, rarer editions that could fetch thousands—or even millions—at auction.
Conclusion
Though pennies may soon disappear from everyday use, their value as collectibles continues to grow. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just someone hoping to strike it rich by checking your change, these 12 pennies are worth looking out for. As the world watches the future of U.S. coinage, now may be the best time to hold onto your pennies—literally.
For more information on rare coins and their values, visit trusted sources such as:
The halt of penny production may mark the end of an era, but for collectors, it signals new opportunities to find and preserve history in the form of small copper coins. Keep an eye on your pocket change—you might just find a hidden fortune.
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Filza specializes in simplifying financial topics for everyday readers. Whether breaking down Canada’s tax guides or U.S. benefits like SNAP and VA Disability, Filza’s relatable writing style ensures readers feel confident and informed. Follow her insights on LinkedIn or reach out via email at [email protected].