Penny coins are not just a holiday money – it can be hidden in a big treasure! Some of the rare sharp coins have become highly valuable due to their mining errors, limited production or historical importance. Many people keep invaluable coins in their coin collection without knowing, which are waiting for the discovery.
In this article we will take a look at the 10 most valuable sharp coins, which are extremely special due to design changes or rare errors and are considered prized for coin collectors.
1944-S Steel Wheat Penny
In 1944, when the mint started making copper coins again, some steel blanks were accidentally used. 1944-S Steel Wheat Penny is one such rare error coin. The coin was built in the San Francisco Mint and only two copies are known, making it one of the most rare sharp coins in the world. In the best position, its price can reach $1.1 million.
1793 Strawberry Leaf Saint
1793 Strawberry Leaf Saint is a very rare coin in early American history. The special feature of this coin is that instead of normal three-leaves designs, four-leaf strawberry patterns were carved. Today only four such coins are known, which has become one of the most rare sharp coins in America. In 2009, one per per $862,500 was auctioned.
1909 VDB Matte Proof Lincoln Penny
When Lincoln Penny was first introduced in 1909, its designer Victor D. Brenner carved out his name on the reverse of his name “VDB” coin. It became controversial and was later removed. But 1909 VDB Matte Proof Penny is one of the early proof coins in which the design remained. The coin has been sold up to $258,000.
1958 Doubled Die Obverse Cent
This coin of 1958 features the letters of “In God We Trust” and “Liberty”, which makes it extremely rare. If this coin is found in excellent position, its price can reach $224,831.
1856 Flying Eagle Cent
1856 Flying Eagle was one of the first small sized sharp coins in St. America. Earlier sharp coins were large size. The production of this coin was limited, making it extremely valuable for collectors. Its price can range from $4,500 to $172,500.
1943-S Lincoln Bronze Planchet Penny
The coin was accidentally molded on copper instead of steel like 1943-D Bronze Penny. It is a rare minting error, which makes it extremely valuable. Its price can reach $282,000 depending on the condition of the coin.
1864 Indian Head Penny “L” on Ribbon
Midway through 1864, the designer James Longacre added a small “L” to the ribbon of the Indian Head Penny. This minor detail created a rare variation. In near-perfect condition, this penny is worth up to $161,000.
1943-D Lincoln Bronze Wheat Penny
During World War II, the American mint (U.S. MINT) began to make sharp coins from steel to save copper. But by mistake, some 1943 were molded on the old copper planchet. Among them, 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Wheat Penny is considered the most valuable.
The coin has been sold at a price of up to $2.3 million. So far, only one known copy has been revealed from Denver Mint. If you have a sharp coin of 1943, then check the structure of its metal – because it can change your life!
1914-D Lincoln Penny
In 1914, Denver Mint prepared a very small number of coin, making it extremely rare. The price of this coin can reach $159,000 if found in good condition.
1926-S Lincoln Penny
1926-S Lincoln Penny is very difficult to get in Mint Condition, especially its original red color coins. In 2006, an excellent per $149,500 of this coin was auctioned.
Do you also have a precious coin?
These coins prove that not only the holiday is only in the form of money – some can also be worth crores of crores! If you have a collection of old coins, check it carefully. Maybe you also have a rare coin, which costs millions!
How to Check If Your Penny Is Valuable
If you think you have a rare penny, follow these steps:
- Inspect the Date & Mintmark – Key dates and errors can dramatically increase a penny’s value.
- Look for Doubling – Check for doubled letters, numbers, or details under magnification.
- Weigh Your Coin – If it should be copper but feels light, or vice versa, you may have a rare variety.
- Get It Certified – Send it to PCGS or NGC for professional grading and authentication.
Conclusion
If you have a coin collection or come across old pennies, take a closer look—you could be holding a valuable treasure worth thousands or even millions. Whether it’s a 1943 Copper Penny, a 1955 Double Die, or an 1877 Indian Head Penny, checking your coins carefully could lead to a life-changing discovery!
FAQ’s
What is the rarest Lincoln penny?
The 1943-D Lincoln Bronze Wheat Penny is the most valuable, worth $2.3 million.
Are 1943 Steel Pennies valuable?
The majority of 1943 Steel Pennies are normal but bronze can cost millions.