Have you ever gone digging through old coins and wondered if any of them are actually worth something? Believe it or not, some of the coins sitting in your drawer or piggy bank could be worth thousands.
Coin collecting is more than just a hobby—it’s a real-life treasure hunt. Let’s take a closer look at six rare pennies that could potentially put $10,000 or more in your pocket.
Table of Contents
1943 Copper Penny
In 1943, most U.S. pennies were made of steel due to wartime copper shortages. But by mistake, a few copper coins were still minted. These 1943 Copper Lincoln Wheat Pennies are extremely rare.
To check if you have one, grab a magnet. If the penny doesn’t stick, you could have a copper version. And if it’s real? You’re looking at a coin worth anywhere from $10,000 to well over $100,000 depending on condition.
1955 Doubled Die
This is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. The 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent has obvious doubling in the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY” on the front.
Collectors love this one, and even worn versions can fetch $1,000 or more. But an uncirculated version in great shape? That can go for over $10,000.
1983 Reverse Doubled Die
Most doubling errors happen on the front of coins, but this one’s different. The 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny shows doubling on the back, especially in “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
To check for authenticity, weigh the coin—it should be around 2.5 grams. If it’s the real deal in near-mint condition, it could sell for up to $15,000.
1969-S Doubled Die
This Lincoln Cent from 1969 with the “S” mint mark from San Francisco is a heavy hitter. The doubling on the front side is bold and easy to spot, especially in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
Because of its rarity and bold error, high-grade versions have sold for anywhere between $10,000 and nearly $70,000.
1972 Doubled Die
Another doubled die makes the list—the 1972 Lincoln Cent. It has strong doubling, especially around the word “LIBERTY” and the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
Circulated versions might get you a few hundred dollars, but uncirculated ones in pristine condition can go for more than $10,000.
1982-D Small Date Copper
In 1982, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to zinc for pennies. But some copper pennies with a small date and Denver mint mark (“D”) slipped through.
Want to find out if yours is one of them? Weigh it—copper pennies should weigh around 3.1 grams. If it checks out and is in high grade, you could be holding a coin worth over $10,000.
Here’s a quick overview of the six valuable pennies and their potential worth:
| Coin | Unique Feature | Value Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Penny | Copper instead of steel | $10,000 to $100,000+ |
| 1955 Doubled Die | Doubling on front | $1,000 to $10,000+ |
| 1983 Doubled Die Reverse | Doubling on back | Up to $15,000 |
| 1969-S Doubled Die | Bold doubling, “S” mint mark | $10,000 to $70,000 |
| 1972 Doubled Die | Doubling on “LIBERTY” and motto | Hundreds to $10,000+ |
| 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny | Wrong metal, small date, “D” mark | $10,000+ |
Next time you’re about to spend a penny, maybe take a second to examine it. What looks like everyday pocket change might actually be a valuable piece of American history. These rare coins show that fortune could be just one drawer away.
FAQs
How can I tell if my 1943 penny is copper?
Use a magnet—if it doesn’t stick, it might be copper.
What is a doubled die coin?
It’s a coin with noticeable doubling caused during minting.
How much is the 1982-D Small Date Copper Penny worth?
High-grade versions can fetch over $10,000.
Where is the mint mark on a Lincoln cent?
Just below the date on the front of the coin.
Are all old pennies valuable?
Not all, only rare ones with errors or special features.
