Sometimes, the most valuable treasures come in the smallest forms. That’s exactly what happened when a seemingly ordinary penny went up for auction and sold for a staggering $1.7 million. The coin, a rare minting error from a specific year, left even the most seasoned collectors in awe. What made this tiny coin so valuable? The answer lies in its rarity, history, and condition. Let’s take a closer look at the coin that caused this auction frenzy—along with three other pennies that could also fetch massive prices.
1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to steel for pennies to conserve metal for the war effort. However, a small number of 1943 Lincoln pennies were mistakenly struck on bronze planchets. Only around 15 to 20 of these coins are known to exist. If you’re lucky enough to find one, especially in good condition, you could be holding a coin worth over $1 million—and yes, one of these is the penny that recently sold for $1.7 million at auction.
1955 Double Die Lincoln Cent
The 1955 Double Die Penny is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. Struck with a die that had been misaligned during production, this penny shows a distinct doubling in the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” While not quite as rare as the 1943 bronze cent, it remains incredibly sought after. A high-grade example can fetch anywhere from $15,000 to $100,000, depending on its condition.
1992 Close AM Lincoln Penny
The 1992 Close AM Penny is another modern rarity. On most pennies minted that year, the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are spaced apart. But a small number were struck with a reverse design meant for proof coins, where the letters are closer together. This tiny detail can turn a one-cent coin into a valuable collector’s item. Verified Close AM examples have sold for $5,000 to $25,000, and their value continues to grow as more collectors learn about them.
The recent $1.7 million sale of a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny proves that even a single coin can change someone’s life. While finding one may seem like a long shot, it’s not impossible. Coins like the 1955 Double Die Cent and the 1992 Close AM Penny are still occasionally discovered in old collections or pocket change. If you’ve got a jar full of pennies tucked away somewhere, now might be the perfect time to check them—you could be sitting on a fortune without even realizing it.
FAQ’s:
1. How do I know if I have a valuable penny?
Check for unique features like doubled letters, unusual spacing, or wrong materials. A coin magnifier and online reference guides can help identify rare varieties.
2. What’s the best way to get my penny appraised?
Submit it to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. They provide authentication and condition grading, which helps determine value.
3. Are mint errors common?
Not really. That’s what makes them valuable. True mint errors are rare and often happen during transitional years or design changes.
4. Can I find valuable pennies in circulation today?
Yes. Though rare, coins like the 1992 Close AM or even older wheat pennies can still turn up in pocket change or coin rolls.
5. Where can I sell a valuable penny?
Try reputable coin dealers, auction houses, or online platforms like eBay—especially after having the coin graded and authenticated.
