Coins are more than just pieces of currency; some have become rare treasures that collectors hunt for and are willing to pay enormous amounts for. Among the most surprising finds is the 1914-D penny, which could fetch up to $850,000 in pristine condition.
This article dives into the story behind this highly valuable coin, along with five more surprising coins that could make you wealthier than you ever imagined. From pennies to dimes, these coins hold a special place in numismatic history and offer substantial returns for those lucky enough to possess them.
1914-D Penny: A Rare Find Worth $850,000
The 1914-D penny is among the most sought-after coins by collectors. The reason for its rarity stems from the limited number of coins minted that year. Only around 1.2 million 1914-D pennies were produced, making them extremely rare in excellent condition.
The coin features Abraham Lincoln on the obverse, and the reverse showcases a traditional wheat design, making it iconic for its time.
In 2014, a 1914-D penny in mint state (MS) 65 condition was sold for a staggering $850,000. The rarity of the coin, coupled with the condition and the high demand among collectors, has contributed to its sky-high value. The 1914-D penny is one of the best examples of how the condition, rarity, and historical significance of a coin can drastically affect its price.
More Coins That Could Surprise You
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
This is another penny that has gained tremendous popularity among collectors. Produced in 1909, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent was part of the first year the U.S. Mint produced the Lincoln cent with Victor David Brenner’s initials on the reverse.
Due to public backlash, the Mint ceased minting the VDB initials after a short run. Only around 484,000 of these pennies were made, and many were worn out or melted down.
Today, the 1909-S VDB penny in excellent condition can fetch prices exceeding $100,000. The rarity of the coin and its historical significance make it a top choice for collectors.
2. 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar
The 1893-S Morgan silver dollar is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the U.S. Mint history. Only 100,000 of these coins were minted, making them highly sought after by collectors. Over the years, most of these coins were either lost or melted down, contributing to the rarity of the 1893-S Morgan silver dollar.
In mint condition, this coin can easily reach values of $150,000 or more, depending on its grade. Its low mintage and iconic design make it a gem for any coin collector.
3. 1943 Copper Penny
In 1943, the U.S. Mint switched from producing copper pennies to zinc-coated steel pennies due to wartime copper shortages. However, a small number of copper pennies were accidentally minted, making them extremely valuable today. Only a handful of these 1943 copper pennies exist, and they have been sold for over $1 million.
The rarity of these pennies, combined with their historical context, makes them a collector’s dream. If you come across a 1943 copper penny, it could be worth an incredible amount.
4. 1913 Liberty Head Nickel
The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is one of the most famous coins in American numismatic history. Only five of these coins were ever produced, and they were never officially released by the U.S. Mint. The coins were created by a Mint employee who secretly struck the coins, making them incredibly rare.
In 2018, one of these 1913 Liberty Head nickels was sold for an astounding $4.5 million at auction. Its scarcity and the mystery behind its creation make it a highly coveted coin among collectors.
5. 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens double eagle is another coin that has made headlines for its record-breaking sales. Originally minted as part of the U.S. Gold Coin series, the 1933 double eagle was ordered to be melted down by President Franklin D. Roosevelt due to the gold standard’s end. However, a few of these coins were secretly retained and eventually sold on the black market.
In 2002, a 1933 Saint-Gaudens double eagle was sold for $7.6 million, setting a record for the most expensive coin ever sold at the time. The 1933 double eagle’s limited availability and its controversial history make it a rare and highly valuable collectible.
| Coin Name | Year Minted | Rarity | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1914-D Penny | 1914 | 1.2 million minted | Up to $850,000 |
| 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent | 1909 | ~484,000 minted | $100,000+ |
| 1893-S Morgan Silver Dollar | 1893 | ~100,000 minted | $150,000+ |
| 1943 Copper Penny | 1943 | A handful of copper pennies | Over $1 million |
| 1913 Liberty Head Nickel | 1913 | 5 coins ever minted | $4.5 million |
| 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle | 1933 | Extremely few in circulation | $7.6 million |
From the $850,000 1914-D penny to the rare $7.6 million 1933 Saint-Gaudens double eagle, these coins are not just pieces of history; they are valuable treasures that continue to fascinate collectors worldwide.
Whether it’s a small penny or a hefty gold coin, the world of rare coins is filled with surprises, offering substantial rewards for those lucky enough to own them. If you’re a collector or just intrigued by the world of numismatics, keep an eye out for these rare coins that could one day make you a fortune.
FAQs
Why is the 1914-D penny so valuable?
The 1914-D penny is rare due to its limited mintage and the fact that very few examples are found in excellent condition. Its value can go up to $850,000 depending on its grade.
How can I tell if my 1909-S VDB penny is valuable?
The 1909-S VDB penny is valuable if it has the initials “VDB” on the reverse. If your coin is in excellent condition and rare to find, it could be worth over $100,000.
What makes the 1943 copper penny so rare?
The 1943 copper penny is rare because it was accidentally minted during World War II when the U.S. Mint switched to steel pennies. Only a few of these copper versions exist, making them extremely valuable.
How much is the 1933 Saint-Gaudens double eagle worth?
The 1933 Saint-Gaudens double eagle is worth a record $7.6 million due to its limited availability and the fact that most were melted down by the government.
Why are the 1913 Liberty Head nickel coins so rare?
Only five 1913 Liberty Head nickels were ever produced, and they were never officially released by the U.S. Mint, making them one of the rarest and most expensive coins in the world.
