Coin enthusiasts, take note! A select few rare Lincoln pennies are creating a buzz in the numismatic world, with values soaring as high as $840,000. These “holy grail” discoveries are coveted treasures among collectors, each made exceptionally valuable by unique minting errors. Here’s a look at some of the priciest Lincoln pennies ever auctioned.
1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent
One of the most famous errors in U.S. coin history, the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent, is a highly sought-after item among collectors. Only about 10 to 15 of these rare pennies are known to exist, and one recently sold for an impressive $348,000 at auction.
This penny was mistakenly struck in bronze instead of the usual steel, due to a wrong-planchet error. The coin’s deep, warm brown color with red highlights gives it an irresistible visual appeal, making it one of the most prized error coins in history.
Philadelphia 1943 Bronze Cent
Another legendary piece is the 1943 Bronze Cent from Philadelphia, which fetched a remarkable $372,000. Believed to be one of just 20 examples minted in bronze instead of steel, this penny features a rich brown patina and excellent preservation.
The coin’s fascinating backstory adds to its allure. It was discovered by Don Lutes Jr. in 1947, when he was just 16 years old, and went up for auction in 2018 after Lutes’ passing. The auction proceeds were donated to the Berkshire Athenaeum, honoring Lutes’ hometown.
1944-S Steel Cent
Mistakenly struck in zinc-plated steel instead of copper, the 1944-S Steel Cent is another rare treasure that recently sold for $373,750 at auction. Only two of these coins were ever produced, and this particular one is the only uncirculated example in existence.
Its pristine condition, coupled with its historical significance, makes this coin a standout piece in any collection. The bright, untouched surface highlights the finely struck details, earning it the status of a true rarity.
1943-S Bronze Cent
Struck in bronze instead of the standard wartime steel, the 1943-S Bronze Cent is an ultra-rare find. This San Francisco-minted penny fetched an impressive $504,000 at auction. Its rich brown and crimson tones, combined with exceptional detail, make it a standout among error coins.
Adding to its uniqueness is a small fleck of zinc near the date, a remnant from the steel pennies of that year. Its superb condition and historical significance make it a prized find for any collector.
CANADA RICHEST MAN’S FORTUNE GROWS BY $20 BILLION IN MONTHS DESPITE PRISON TIME
Historic Chapman Gold Dollar Collection to Be Featured in Stack’s Bowers November 2024 Auction
Canada Tightens Visitor Visa Rules: Say Goodbye to Automatic 10-Year Multiple-Entry Visas
The Arthur B. Stewart Collection of U.S. Coins – Stack’s Auction, May 4-6, 1972
1943-D Bronze Cent
The 1943-D Bronze Cent is the most iconic and valuable of all these rare pennies. Recently selling for a staggering $840,000, this Denver Mint coin is the only known example of its kind. In 1943, the U.S. Mint mistakenly used leftover bronze planchets from 1942 to produce a small batch of pennies.
This coin’s rich, warm brown tone with touches of red enhances its beauty, while its “Choice” grade and remarkable preservation make it a true gem. With fewer than 20 examples known to exist, this penny is one of the finest error coins in American history.
Each of these rare Lincoln pennies holds a unique place in U.S. coin history. The combination of minting errors, excellent preservation, and historical significance makes these pennies incredibly valuable to collectors. If you’re lucky enough to find one of these treasures, whether in your change jar or at an estate sale, it could be worth more than you ever imagined.
Leave a Reply