5 Valuable U.S. Pennies That Can Still Show Up in Change

We’ve highlighted some impressive coins before, including a few of the most remarkable pennies in U.S. history. But what about valuable American pennies that may still turn up in everyday change? While many are tucked away in collections or museums, a handful can still circulate — and they can be worth a significant amount. Here are five examples to keep an eye out for.

5. 1970-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent

This coin stands out because so few examples are known, making it a rare prize for collectors. PCGS says only about 132 certified pieces are known. The doubling can be seen on IN GOD WE TRUST, LIBERTY, and the date. Values can be strikingly high, with examples bringing in $870 and $4,148, according to PCGS.

4. 1992-D Close AM Lincoln Cent

Although Denver produced nearly 4.5 billion Lincoln cents in 1992, the 1992-D Close AM variety is one of the scarcer versions from that year. Even so, it can still appear in circulation, so checking your spare change is worth the effort.

With just over 100 examples discovered, PCGS has recorded impressive auction results for this penny, including sales as high as $5,600. A one-cent coin worth more than five thousand dollars is the kind of surprise collectors hope to find.

3. 1992 Close AM Lincoln Cent

This one may look similar to the previous entry, but it is a different variety. On a 1992 Lincoln cent, look closely at the letters A and M in AMERICA. On the rare Close AM version, the bases of those letters nearly touch, unlike the standard design, where the spacing is wider.

If you find one, it could bring a strong return at auction. PCGS notes that one of the most notable sales reached $25,850.

2. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent

Another highly sought-after coin that can still be found in change is the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent. A small minting mistake in 1972 created a variety that collectors continue to watch for. The doubling is visible on LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST.

PCGS says the doubling also appears on the date. It is a subtle detail, but one that is still easy to spot, making these pennies worth checking. In good condition, one can bring around $14,000 at auction, according to PCGS.

1. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent

The most valuable coin on the list is the 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse, a legendary variety that has sold for amounts ranging from $13,000 to $126,000. It is known for clear doubling on the date, LIBERTY, and IN GOD WE TRUST.

PCGS says there are roughly 100 known examples of this variety, and that rarity helps explain the high prices. Even so, examples are still reported in circulation, including a $13,000 auction sale in 2023.