Imagine finding a single penny in your change that’s quietly worth more than most people’s monthly car payment. That’s exactly what has happened to lucky collectors who discovered one of these 13 ultra-rare 20th-century Lincoln cents. From minting mistakes to ultra-low production runs, these tiny copper coins have sold for tens—and even hundreds—of thousands of dollars. Here are the rare 20th century pennies every collector dreams about in 2025.
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The holy grail of small cents. Only 484,000 minted, and the designer’s initials (VDB) caused instant controversy. MS65 examples now trade above $100,000.
2. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
Just 1.19 million produced in Denver makes this key-date penny a perennial six-figure coin in high grade. Even Good-condition pieces fetch $2,000+.
3. 1922 No-D “Plain” Lincoln Cent
A famous die abrasion erased the “D” mintmark. Strong examples without wear have sold for over $30,000.
4. 1931-S Lincoln Cent
Lowest mintage of the entire wheat-back series—only 866,000. Red Gem examples exceed $15,000.
5. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse
The most dramatic doubling error ever. “IN GOD WE TRUST” and date look almost 3-D. High-grade pieces routinely sell for $40,000–$100,000+.
6. 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent
All 1943 pennies were supposed to be steel—except a handful struck on leftover bronze planchets. Fewer than 20 known; one sold for $1.7 million.
7. 1944 Steel Lincoln Cent
The opposite error: steel planchets left over from 1943 got used in 1944. About 30 known; values start at $100,000.
8. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
Extremely strong doubling hidden for decades. Only about 50 confirmed; recent auction prices top $120,000.
9. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse
Bold doubling on date and lettering. Red MS65 examples now bring $1,000–$2,000, affordable rarity.
10. 1983-D Bronze Lincoln Cent
Transitional error struck on a bronze planchet instead of copper-plated zinc. Only one confirmed; sold for $17,625.
11. 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent
Normal pennies have wide “AM” in AMERICA; a tiny die variety has them touching. Worth $20,000+ in Mint State.
12. 1999 Wide AM Lincoln Cent
Reverse die variety where “AM” is spaced far apart. Red examples regularly sell for $500–$1,000.
13. 1958 Doubled Die Obverse
One of the rarest doubled-die cents. Fewer than 20 known; the finest examples have traded above $200,000.
Quick Value Guide (Average 2025 Prices)
| Coin | Good/VG | Fine | MS63 | MS65+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | $800 | $1,200 | $3,000 | $100,000+ |
| 1955 Doubled Die | $1,200 | $1,500 | $2,500 | $50,000+ |
| 1943 Bronze | — | — | — | $300,000–$1.7M |
| 1969-S Doubled Die | — | — | — | $80,000+ |
How to Spot These in Your Change or Collection
Check every pre-1959 penny for mintmarks under the date. Examine 1950s–1990s cents under magnification for doubled lettering. Weigh 1943 and 1983 pennies—bronze weighs 3.11g, steel/zinc is lighter. Use the “AM” test on 1992–2000 Memorial reverse pennies.
Final Thought
One of these rare 20th century pennies could be hiding in your jar, attic box, or inherited collection right now. While billion-dollar finds are rare, thousands of collectors have turned a single overlooked cent into five- or six-figure windfalls. Start looking—your fortune might literally be worth one cent.