Lincoln Cent Key Dates
Lincoln cents offer key dates at every budget level, from affordable semi-keys to five-figure rarities.
The Top Key Dates
- 1909-S VDB — $800+ (G), $2,000+ (MS-63). The most famous Lincoln cent.
- 1909-S — $100+ (G). Without VDB initials.
- 1914-D — $250+ (G), $2,500+ (MS-63). Watch for altered 1944-D fakes.
- 1922 No D (Plain) — $600+ (G). Filled die obliterated the mint mark.
- 1931-S — $100+ (G). Depression-era low mintage.
- 1955 Doubled Die Obverse — $1,200+ (VF). The most dramatic US doubled die.
- 1972 Doubled Die Obverse — $500+ (MS-63). Bold doubling on date and lettering.
- 1943 Copper — $100,000+. Error coin struck on wrong planchet. Only ~20 known.
Affordable Semi-Keys ($5–$50)
- 1910-S, 1911-S, 1912-S, 1913-S — San Francisco teens.
- 1914-S — $25+ in Good.
- 1915-S — $15+ in Good.
- 1924-D — $20+ in Good.
- 1926-S — $10+ in Good.
- 1933-D — $5+ in Good.
Where to Find Them
Check dealer junk boxes at coin shows, search bank rolls, and examine inherited collections carefully. Key dates hide in plain sight.
Up Next
This guide is for educational purposes. Where official standards, grading services, organization memberships, or legal requirements apply, consult the primary authority named in the references below or the relevant government agency.
Reviewed on February 10, 2026 by the US Coin Shows editorial team. Editorial policy
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most valuable Lincoln penny?
The 1943 copper cent ($100,000+) is the rarest. Among regular issues, the 1909-S VDB ($800+ in Good) and 1914-D ($250+ in Good) are the most valuable.
Are there affordable key date Lincoln cents?
Yes. Semi-key dates from the 1910s-1930s San Francisco and Denver mints range from $5-$50 in Good condition.
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