From ancient artifacts to rare collectibles, hidden coins have sparked curiosity and captured imaginations for centuries. Every so often, extraordinary finds make headlines—especially when it comes to rare coins. Below are three remarkable coins, discovered under floorboards, that have become prized treasures for collectors and numismatists alike.
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1793 Birch Cent
One of the most significant discoveries beneath a set of floorboards was the 1793 Birch Cent. This coin holds a special place in U.S. history as one of the first pennies produced by the U.S. Mint. Named after its engraver, Robert Birch, the coin features a striking portrait of Lady Liberty on one side and a wreath on the reverse.
What makes this coin so valuable? The 1793 Birch Cent is extremely rare, with only a handful known to exist today. Its age, historical significance, and scarcity make it one of the most sought-after coins. This coin has been valued at around $2 million, representing a key piece of early American numismatic history.
1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny
In 1943, during World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to producing steel pennies to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few pennies were mistakenly minted using bronze instead of steel, making them exceedingly rare. One of these 1943 Bronze Lincoln Pennies was discovered under the floorboards of a house in California, sending shockwaves through the coin-collecting community.
Because only a few bronze pennies from 1943 are known to exist, this coin’s value skyrocketed. With an estimated worth of over $10 million, it is one of the most valuable U.S. pennies ever found. Its unique composition and rarity have made it highly coveted by collectors.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent may not carry the same million-dollar price tag as the Birch Cent or the Bronze Penny, but it remains a treasured coin for collectors. This coin was minted in San Francisco and bears the initials “VDB” on the reverse side—signifying the designer, Victor David Brenner. The initials were controversial at the time and were removed from later issues, adding to the coin’s rarity.
While not as scarce as the 1943 Bronze Penny, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent is highly valued due to its limited mintage and historical significance. Pennies in excellent condition can sell for several thousand dollars, making it a significant find for any collector.
| Coin Type | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1793 Birch Cent | Early U.S. penny, Lady Liberty | $2 million |
| 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny | Bronze composition, rare minting error | $10 million |
| 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent | San Francisco mint, “VDB” initials | Several thousand dollars |
Coins like the 1793 Birch Cent, 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny, and 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent represent more than just their face value—they are pieces of history that have become highly prized collectibles. Address the unlikeliest of places, these coins have captured the imaginations of collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether it’s their historical significance, minting errors, or sheer rarity, these coins have become some of the most valuable finds in numismatic history.
FAQs
What is the most valuable penny ever found?
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny is valued at over $10 million.
Why is the 1793 Birch Cent so valuable?
It’s one of the first pennies produced by the U.S. Mint, making it rare and historically significant.
How can I identify a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny?
The 1943 Bronze Penny looks like a typical penny but was mistakenly made with bronze instead of steel.
Are all 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cents valuable?
Yes, especially in good condition, due to their limited mintage and historical significance.
Where were these coins found?
They were discovered under floorboards in various locations, turning everyday houses into treasure troves.
