Rare U.S. pennies hold a special allure for coin collectors and history buffs. Some pennies have developed a unique bluish tint due to unusual minting choices or rare errors, making them incredibly valuable. These so-called “blue pennies” offer not just collectible appeal but also significant worth. Here’s a look at six of the most valuable blue pennies that could bring you a fortune if found in circulation.
Six Valuable “Blue Pennies” to Look For
1943 Steel Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint temporarily replaced copper with steel to conserve resources. This led to the creation of the 1943 Steel Penny, known for its distinct bluish-gray hue. While not all 1943 steel pennies are highly valuable, those in excellent condition can sell for over $1,000, making them prized finds among collectors.
1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny is one of the rarest and most coveted U.S. coins. Though it’s not naturally blue, some examples have developed a bluish tint over time due to oxidation. Only a handful exist, making them immensely valuable, with some reaching over $300,000 at auction.
1918-S Lincoln Wheat Penny
Another historic penny with occasional bluish tinting, the 1918-S Lincoln Wheat Penny, is highly sought after by collectors. The blue hue that sometimes appears results from natural aging processes in the copper. These coins can reach values upwards of $50,000, especially in high-grade conditions, making them valuable artifacts from the post-World War I era.
1944 Steel Penny
Due to leftover steel planchets (coin blanks) from the previous year, the U.S. Mint unintentionally produced a small number of 1944 Steel Pennies. These rare coins often display a slight blue tint and are extremely valuable, sometimes fetching over $100,000. The accidental continuation of steel composition in 1944 makes these pennies unique collectibles.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent holds a special place in numismatic history as one of the first Lincoln pennies. Though it doesn’t typically have a blue tint, certain environmental conditions can give some examples a unique hue. Due to its limited production run, this coin is valuable regardless of color, with rare examples often reaching values above $100,000.
1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent is a collector’s favorite due to a distinctive doubling error on the obverse (front side of the coin). In some cases, a bluish tint can develop over time. With a value often exceeding $50,000, this rare penny is highly sought after, particularly by those interested in error coins.
| Coin Name | Year of Mint | Estimated Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Steel Penny | 1943 | $1,000+ | Steel composition |
| 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny | 1943 | $300,000+ | Bronze error |
| 1918-S Lincoln Wheat Penny | 1918 | $50,000+ | Aging effects on color |
| 1944 Steel Penny | 1944 | $100,000+ | Steel minting error |
| 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent | 1909 | $100,000+ | First Lincoln penny, rare mint |
| 1969-S Doubled Die Lincoln Cent | 1969 | $50,000+ | Doubling error |
These blue-tinted pennies are treasures that carry both historical significance and financial value. Their rarity and unusual appearance make them alluring for collectors, and the potential value means they’re worth keeping an eye out for. Next time you receive change, check those pennies—you might discover a hidden fortune.
What causes some pennies to turn blue?
Pennies can develop a blue tint due to oxidation or environmental factors, and some metal combinations are more prone to these color shifts over time.
Are all 1943 steel pennies valuable?
Not all 1943 steel pennies hold high value. However, well-preserved examples can be worth over $1,000.
Why are 1943 bronze pennies so rare?
The U.S. Mint accidentally produced a few bronze pennies in 1943 during the switch to steel, making them some of the rarest and most valuable U.S. coins.