1800s Pennies Coins from the 1800s are not just old pieces of currency—they can also be highly valuable, especially certain rare pennies. Some of these coins were minted in limited numbers or have special features that make them highly sought after by collectors. If you have any pennies from the 19th century, it’s worth taking a closer look, as they could be worth far more than their face value. Here are six rare pennies from the 1800s that could be hiding in your collection and potentially be worth a fortune.
1. 1856 Flying Eagle Cent
The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent is one of the most famous and valuable pennies from the 1800s. It is a pattern coin, which means it was created to show off a new design for U.S. pennies. Only about 634 of these were made, making them incredibly rare. These coins are usually worth around $8,000 in good condition, and in mint state, they can sell for as much as $25,000.
2. 1864 Indian Head Penny with “L” on Ribbon
The 1864 Indian Head Penny is another highly valuable coin. What makes this coin special is a small “L” on the ribbon that holds the headband of the Indian chief on the obverse (front) of the coin. This “L” stands for the designer, James B. Longacre. In average condition, it’s worth about $68, but if it’s in uncirculated condition, it can be worth around $519. The proof versions of this coin, which are even rarer, can sell for over $34,000!
3. 1872 Indian Head Penny
The 1872 Indian Head Penny is part of the Indian Head series, which was minted from 1859 to 1909. While not as rare as the 1856 Flying Eagle or the 1864 Indian Head with the “L,” the 1872 penny is still quite valuable, especially in good condition. You can expect to pay about $80 for one in average condition, but if it is in mint state, its value can rise to $1,350.
4. 1877 Indian Head Penny
The 1877 Indian Head Penny is one of the most sought-after coins in the Indian Head series. This is because only a small number of these coins were produced, making them highly rare. In good condition, these pennies are worth around $725, but if you manage to find one in excellent condition, it could be worth much more. These coins are highly prized by collectors and can fetch significant amounts at auctions.
5. 1888/7 Indian Head Penny
The 1888/7 Indian Head Penny is an overdate coin, meaning it was made when the mint used an 1887 die to stamp the year 1888. This overdate error is quite rare, and it makes this penny incredibly valuable. One well-preserved specimen sold for $72,000 at a Heritage Auction in 2019, proving how much collectors are willing to pay for these special coins.
6. 1894 Indian Head Penny
The 1894 Indian Head Penny is notable for its “Red” designation. This means that the coin has retained its original copper color and hasn’t turned brown or dull with age. Because of the way copper oxidizes over time, red pennies are highly sought after. For example, an 1894 “Red” Lincoln penny was sold for over $20,000 at an auction, showing just how much well-preserved copper coins from this era can be worth.
Conclusion
These rare pennies from the 1800s represent a fascinating piece of U.S. history and could be hiding in your collection. While some may seem like ordinary pennies, they could actually be worth thousands—or even tens of thousands—of dollars. If you happen to have any of these coins, it’s a good idea to get them professionally appraised to understand their true value. In many cases, rare coins like these can appreciate over time, making them not just a collector’s item but also a solid investment for the future.
FAQs
1. What makes the 1856 Flying Eagle Cent so valuable?
The 1856 Flying Eagle Cent is valuable because it is a pattern coin, meaning it was produced in limited numbers to showcase a new design. Only about 634 of these coins were made, making them very rare. Coins in mint state can fetch up to $25,000.
2. How can I tell if I have the 1864 Indian Head Penny with the “L” on the Ribbon?
The 1864 Indian Head Penny with the “L” on the ribbon has a small “L” stamped on the ribbon tied around the Indian’s head. This marks the designer, James B. Longacre. This coin is valuable, especially in uncirculated condition, and can be worth as much as $34,000 in some cases.
3. Why is the 1877 Indian Head Penny so rare?
The 1877 Indian Head Penny is rare because of its low mintage. Only a limited number of these pennies were made, and they are highly sought after by collectors. Even in average condition, this penny can be worth around $725.