Coin collecting is a fascinating hobby, and for many, it starts with a handful of pennies. But not just any pennies—some coins are much more valuable than others, and among them are the legendary Lincoln Memorial pennies. These coins, which feature a design commemorating President Abraham Lincoln, have captured the hearts of collectors for years.
But which Lincoln pennies are worth the most? Let’s take a look at the top 10 Lincoln Memorial pennies that collectors crave, and learn why they are so valuable. If you’re a coin enthusiast or just starting your collection, this guide will surely inspire you!
1. 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent
Imagine holding a piece of American history in your hand—a coin from the year when the United States first honored Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday. The 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent is famous for being one of the most desirable coins for collectors. What makes this penny special? Well, in 1909, the U.S. Mint changed the design of the one-cent coin to feature Lincoln. However, the designer, Victor David Brenner, included his initials (V.D.B.) on the reverse side, which caused some controversy. The Mint quickly decided to remove the initials, making the 1909-S V.D.B. penny a rarity.
With only about 484,000 of these pennies minted, finding one in good condition is a challenge. If you’re considering adding this penny to your collection, look for a specimen that is free of damage and shows a rich, deep copper color, which indicates it has aged gracefully over time.
Optimal Collecting Grade: EF-40
Optimal Investment Grade: MS-65 RD
2. 1921 Peace Dollar
Although not a Lincoln Memorial penny, the 1921 Peace Dollar deserves mention for its beauty and historical significance. The Peace Dollar was struck to commemorate the end of World War I and symbolizes peace. What makes the 1921 edition stand out is its high-relief design, which made it harder to strike and resulted in fewer coins being produced. Despite this, the Peace Dollar remains a sought-after piece for both beginners and seasoned collectors.
Optimal Collecting Grade: MS-63
Optimal Investment Grade: MS-65
3. 1878-CC Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1878-CC Morgan Silver Dollar was minted at the Carson City Mint in Nevada. Though it’s not a Lincoln Memorial penny, it adds character to any collection due to its unique history. The Morgan Silver Dollar was created to fulfill a government mandate to purchase silver, making it an important part of U.S. history. The 1878-CC is especially valuable due to its Carson City mintmark and relatively low mintage.
Optimal Collecting Grade: MS-63
Optimal Investment Grade: MS-65 DMPL
4. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
The 1914-D Lincoln Cent isn’t as rare as the 1909-S V.D.B., but it’s still one of the most valuable pennies out there. This coin’s low mintage of just over 1 million coins, combined with the fact that many were circulated, makes it a sought-after piece for intermediate collectors. If you can find an uncirculated 1914-D penny, you’re in luck—it’s much rarer than its more famous cousin, the 1909-S V.D.B.
Optimal Collecting Grade: EF-40
Optimal Investment Grade: MS-63
5. 1955/55 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The 1955/55 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is one of the most famous error coins ever produced by the U.S. Mint. This penny is a must-have for collectors because of its unique double imprint on the date. The story behind this error is fascinating: a coin die was struck twice, causing the date to appear doubled on the coin. Some 20,000 to 24,000 coins with this error were mixed with regular coins, but only a few were saved.
What makes this coin even more valuable is its status as an error coin. Many collectors love error coins, and the 1955/55 Doubled Die is considered one of the best-known examples.
Optimal Collecting Grade: VF-20
Optimal Investment Grade: MS-65
6. 1922 Plain Lincoln Cent
The 1922 Lincoln Cent is one of the most interesting pennies to collect because of its unique design. The coin was supposed to have a mintmark, but due to a die error, it was produced without one. As a result, these “plain” 1922 pennies are highly sought after by collectors. Although a bit less rare than some other coins on this list, the 1922 Plain Cent’s scarcity and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any collection.
Optimal Collecting Grade: EF-40
Optimal Investment Grade: MS-63
7. 1931-S Lincoln Cent
The 1931-S Lincoln Cent is another highly coveted coin among collectors. While the mintage was relatively low at 866,000, the coin was widely circulated, and uncirculated examples are now hard to find. If you come across a well-preserved 1931-S penny, don’t hesitate to snatch it up! This coin’s rarity and desirability only increase with time.
Optimal Collecting Grade: EF-40
Optimal Investment Grade: MS-63
8. 1958 Proof Lincoln Cent
The 1958 Proof Lincoln Cent stands out for its exceptional quality and its place in the history of U.S. coinage. While not as rare as some of the other coins listed, the 1958 Proof penny is a popular choice among collectors due to its pristine condition and beautiful design. These pennies were struck in limited quantities for proof sets, making them a nice addition for any collection.
Optimal Collecting Grade: PR-65
Optimal Investment Grade: PR-67
9. 1971-S Small Date Lincoln Cent
The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Cent is another coin that intrigues collectors. This penny was part of the 1970 series, but the design was slightly altered, leading to the “small date” version being more desirable. These coins are harder to find in mint condition, so if you find one, it could be worth more than its face value.
Optimal Collecting Grade: MS-63
Optimal Investment Grade: MS-65
10. 1995 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent
Similar to the 1955/55 Doubled Die, the 1995 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Cent features a clear doubling on the obverse (front) of the coin. This error was much rarer than its 1955 counterpart, but collectors still seek it out because of its unique characteristics. If you come across one of these coins in good condition, it’s a must-have for your collection!
Optimal Collecting Grade: MS-63
Optimal Investment Grade: MS-65
Why Are These Pennies Valuable?
So, what makes these Lincoln Memorial pennies so special? The rarity, historical significance, and unique features of each coin contribute to their value. Coin collecting is not just about owning a piece of history—it’s also about the thrill of finding rare and valuable items that may appreciate over time.
If you’re just getting started with collecting, it might seem overwhelming at first. But don’t worry! Whether you’re looking for an affordable piece to begin your collection or hoping to invest in something that could grow in value, there’s a Lincoln penny out there for everyone.
Want to start collecting rare coins? Don’t rush into buying from untrusted websites. Be sure to purchase from reputable dealers, and always have your coins authenticated by a certified grading service. What coins do you already have in your collection? Are you ready to find your next prized penny?