A Penny Worth Millions
Could a penny in your pocket be worth $38 million? The 1986 Lincoln penny, a common coin you might find in change, has rare versions that collectors pay big money for. Most 1986 pennies are worth just one cent, but certain errors or special features make some worth thousands or more. While a $38 million penny is a rumor tied to rare error coins, finding one of these treasures could still bring a huge payout. Check your pennies now to see if you have a winner.
Why Some 1986 Pennies Are Valuable
The value of a 1986 Lincoln penny comes from minting errors, low production numbers, or excellent condition. The U.S. Mint made billions of pennies in 1986, but mistakes like double-struck designs or wrong metal compositions created rare coins. Pennies in mint condition, with sharp details and no wear, are also prized. The $38 million claim likely stems from hype around unique error coins, but even less dramatic finds can sell for hundreds or thousands.
Rare 1986 Lincoln Pennies to Find
Here are some of the most valuable 1986 Lincoln pennies to look for:
- 1986 Doubled Die Obverse: Doubling on the date or words like “LIBERTY” can make it worth $200 to $2,000.
- 1986 Off-Center Strike: If the design is misaligned, it could sell for $100 to $800.
- 1986-D Bronze Planchet: A penny struck on a bronze blank instead of zinc, worth up to $5,000.
- 1986 Missing Clad Layer: Missing the copper coating, giving a silver look, valued at $500 to $1,500.
- 1986-D RPM: Repunched mint mark (D over D), worth $50 to $300 in good condition.
| Coin Feature | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Doubled Die Obverse | Doubling on date or words | $200–$2,000 |
| Bronze Planchet | Struck on wrong metal | Up to $5,000 |
How to Spot a Valuable 1986 Penny
To find a rare 1986 penny, check the date and mint mark, found on the front near Lincoln’s head. A D means it’s from Denver, while no mark means Philadelphia. Use a magnifying glass to look for doubling in the date, words, or Lincoln’s portrait. Check for unusual colors, like a silvery penny, which could mean a wrong planchet. Off-center designs or clear, sharp details also signal value. Compare your coins to online guides or coin apps to confirm rarity.
| Feature | What to Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Mint Mark | D or none on front | Rare mints can add value |
| Errors | Doubling, wrong metal | Mistakes make coins unique |
What to Do with a Rare Penny
If you find a rare 1986 penny, don’t clean it, as cleaning can lower its value. Store it in a soft cloth or plastic coin holder to protect it. Take it to a trusted coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC to verify its condition and authenticity. These services assign a grade that affects the price. You can sell valuable pennies at coin shops, online auctions, or to collectors. Always get an expert’s opinion to ensure a fair deal.
Start Checking Your Pennies Today
The 1986 Lincoln penny is still in circulation, so you might find one in your change, wallet, or piggy bank. While a $38 million penny is unlikely, error coins can bring hundreds or thousands. Look for odd designs, doubling, or strange colors. With a sharp eye and a bit of luck, you could uncover a penny worth a lot. Grab your change and start looking now. Your next big find might be just a penny away.