Many people assume that all valuable coins have already been discovered and locked away in collections, but that couldn’t be further from the truth! Some of the rarest and most valuable pennies, like the 1909-S VDB and the 1922 No D Lincoln cent, are still being found in circulation. These coins, both famous for their rarity and high value, can fetch thousands of dollars at auction. Could one of these coins be sitting in your spare change right now? Let’s take a closer look at what makes these pennies so special and how you can identify them.
1. The 1909-S VDB Penny
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent is one of the most sought-after coins in American numismatics. It was the first year the Lincoln penny was minted, and designer Victor David Brenner’s initials (VDB) were placed prominently on the reverse. However, due to public outcry over the initials being too large, the U.S. Mint quickly removed them. This resulted in a very limited number of 1909 pennies being struck with the VDB initials at the San Francisco Mint (marked by the “S” mintmark). With only 484,000 minted, this penny is incredibly rare today, with values ranging from $800 in worn condition to over $10,000 in top grades.
2. The 1922 No D Penny
The 1922 No D Lincoln cent is another rare error coin that occurred at the Denver Mint. In 1922, the Denver Mint was the only facility producing pennies, meaning all 1922 pennies should have a “D” mintmark. However, due to a worn-down die, some coins were struck without the “D” mintmark, creating one of the most valuable error pennies in history. These pennies are highly collectible, often selling for $500 to $25,000, depending on condition. The key to identifying one is to look for a weak or completely missing “D” mintmark while ensuring other details match genuine examples.
The 1909-S VDB and 1922 No D pennies are two of the most valuable Lincoln cents ever minted, and unbelievably, a few are still being discovered today. Whether found in old coin collections, coin rolls, or even pocket change, these rare pennies can turn an ordinary day into a life-changing one. If you want to increase your chances of finding one, start searching through your spare change and check old penny rolls from banks—your next big discovery could be waiting!
FAQ’s:
1. How much is a 1909-S VDB penny worth?
A well-worn 1909-S VDB penny can sell for around $800, while high-grade examples can reach over $10,000 at auction.
2. How can I tell if my 1922 penny is a No D variety?
Look closely at the mintmark area—if there’s no “D” and other design details appear weak or mushy, you may have a valuable 1922 No D cent.
3. Where can I sell these rare pennies?
You can sell them at coin dealers, auctions, online marketplaces (eBay, Heritage Auctions), or through professional grading services like PCGS or NGC.
4. Are these pennies still in circulation?
Yes, but they are extremely rare. Some have been found in old coin rolls, inherited collections, and even change from transactions.
5. Should I clean my rare penny before selling it?
Never clean a rare coin! Cleaning can reduce its value significantly. Keep it in its natural condition and have it authenticated by a professional grading service.
