Lincoln Cents minted between 1909 and 1958 have long been a favorite among coin collectors. But one penny in particular—the 1914-D Lincoln Cent—holds a legendary status in the numismatic world.
With low mintage, historical relevance, and huge collector demand, this rare coin is known to fetch thousands, and in some cases, even six-figure prices.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this copper coin so desirable.
Rarity
The “D” in 1914-D refers to the Denver Mint, which produced this specific version of the Lincoln cent. In that year, only 1.2 million coins were struck with the Denver Mint mark. That may sound like a big number, but in the coin world, it’s considered low—especially for a circulating penny.
Over time, many of these coins were lost, damaged, or heavily worn, making high-quality examples even harder to find. That rarity makes the 1914-D one of the most elusive Lincoln cents ever minted.
Value
The value of a 1914-D penny can vary a lot depending on its condition. Coins that have been in circulation (meaning they’ve been used and show signs of wear) can still be worth several hundred to a few thousand pounds or dollars. These often appear on platforms like eBay or in local coin shops.
But it’s the uncirculated, mint-condition examples that truly blow collectors away. One pristine 1914-D penny even sold for an eye-watering $159,000 at auction.
Here’s a rough idea of its worth by condition:
| Coin Condition | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good (G4) | $200–$400 |
| Fine (F12) | $500–$800 |
| Extremely Fine (XF40) | $2,000–$4,000 |
| Uncirculated (MS65) | $15,000+ |
| Top-Graded (MS66+) | Up to $159,000 |
Appeal
So why are collectors so drawn to this particular coin?
Lincoln Cents have been minted for over 100 years and hold a special place in U.S. history. Designed by Victor D. Brenner, the Lincoln penny was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person.
Collectors love putting together complete sets from 1909 to 1958 (the wheat-back era), and the 1914-D is considered one of the key date coins—meaning it’s essential for completing the series.
Because it’s so hard to find, especially in good shape, the 1914-D is often the missing piece in many collections. Owning one not only completes the set but significantly raises the collection’s value.
Tips
If you ever stumble upon an old penny from 1914 with a small “D” under the date, don’t overlook it. Even a well-worn one could be worth hundreds. Before selling or tossing it into a coin jar, consider getting it appraised by a professional numismatist or coin dealer.
Be cautious too—because of its value, the 1914-D is one of the most commonly counterfeited pennies. Look for weight, design details, and consider having the coin authenticated by a trusted grading service.
The 1914-D Lincoln Cent is more than just a piece of change—it’s a collector’s prize. With its low mintage, historical charm, and soaring market value, this little coin has become one of the most sought-after pieces in American coin collecting.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just checking through an old coin jar, spotting one of these could mean you’ve uncovered a small fortune.
FAQs
What makes the 1914-D penny rare?
Only 1.2 million were minted, and few remain in good condition.
How much is a 1914-D Lincoln Cent worth?
Values range from $200 to over $150,000 based on condition.
Where was the 1914-D penny minted?
It was produced at the Denver Mint, hence the ‘D’ mark.
Is the 1914-D penny often faked?
Yes, it’s commonly counterfeited—always verify authenticity.
Should I get an old penny appraised?
Yes, especially if it’s from 1914 and has a ‘D’ mint mark.
