Lincoln coins have long been a favorite among collectors, not only for their historical significance but also for their potential value. Over the years, some Lincoln coins have reached extraordinary auction prices, capturing the attention of enthusiasts and investors alike.
With specific features, minting errors, or unique backstories, these coins are now considered treasures. Below, we explore some of the most sought-after Lincoln coins that could be worth up to $1 million.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
This coin is one of the most iconic Lincoln pennies, prized for its rarity and significance as the first year of the Lincoln cent series. The “S” mint mark indicates it was struck in San Francisco, and the “VDB” initials on the reverse honor its designer, Victor David Brenner. Its limited mintage makes it highly desirable among collectors.
1914-D Lincoln Penny
The 1914-D penny is a rare gem due to its low production numbers and historical context. Struck in Denver, this coin is highly sought after, especially in uncirculated condition. Its scarcity and enduring popularity among collectors have significantly driven up its value over the years.
1922 No D Lincoln Penny
This coin stands out because of a minting error that omitted the Denver mint mark. The absence of the “D” creates a unique rarity that collectors find fascinating. Coins in better condition can fetch impressive prices at auctions.
1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to producing pennies from zinc-coated steel to conserve copper for the war effort. A small number of 1943 pennies were mistakenly struck on bronze planchets, making them extremely rare. These coins are among the most valuable Lincoln cents ever discovered.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
This coin gained fame for its noticeable doubling on the obverse, where the date and inscriptions appear to have been struck twice. The doubling effect is so distinct that it became a favorite among error coin enthusiasts, driving its demand and value.
1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
Another remarkable error coin, the 1969-S penny, features prominent doubling on the obverse. Its rarity and unique appearance have made it a prized possession for collectors. Coins in pristine condition are especially valuable.
1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny
This coin is a modern rarity resulting from a minting anomaly where the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are closer than usual. While it may appear insignificant at first glance, this minor detail makes the coin extremely valuable to collectors searching for elusive errors.
| Coin | Year | Mint Mark | Approximate Value ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny | 1909 | S | Up to 100,000 |
| 1914-D Lincoln Penny | 1914 | D | Up to 150,000 |
| 1922 No D Lincoln Penny | 1922 | None | Up to 80,000 |
| 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny | 1943 | None | Up to 1,000,000 |
| 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | 1955 | None | Up to 125,000 |
| 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | 1969 | S | Up to 150,000 |
| 1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny | 1992 | None | Up to 25,000 |
While Lincoln pennies are a staple of U.S. coinage, the rare variants mentioned above have elevated their status within the numismatic community. These coins are not only historical artifacts but also valuable investments for those lucky enough to own them.
Whether through minting errors, limited production, or unique features, these Lincoln coins have captivated collectors worldwide.
