Finding hidden treasures beneath your floorboards is a rare and exciting event, especially when those treasures are valuable coins worth millions. In this article, we’ll explore three mysterious penny coins discovered under floorboards, one of which has an astounding value of 12 million USD. These rare coins have fascinated collectors and sparked imaginations, from ancient relics to modern-day collectibles.
1793 Birch Cent
One of the most remarkable discoveries made under floorboards is the 1793 Birch Cent. This coin holds immense historical significance as one of the first pennies minted by the U.S. Mint. Featuring a striking portrait of Lady Liberty on one side and a wreath on the reverse, the Birch Cent was crafted in the early years of the newly formed United States. Due to its rarity and connection to the nation’s early currency system, this coin is highly valued, with an estimated worth of 2 million USD.
The coin’s age, rarity, and historical context make it a prized item for collectors. The Birch Cent is a glimpse into America’s beginnings, providing a tangible connection to its early financial system and its push to establish a national identity.
1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny
In 1943, during World War II, the U.S. Mint made a temporary switch to steel pennies to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few pennies were mistakenly struck in bronze instead of steel, making them exceedingly rare and valuable. One of these scarce coins was discovered under the floorboards of a California home and is currently valued at over 10 million USD.
The bronze composition error, combined with its historical timing during the war, makes this penny one of the most sought-after coins in the world. It represents a fascinating piece of numismatic history, a blend of accidental creation and wartime scarcity that collectors clamor for.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
While not as valuable as the others, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent remains a highly prized coin among collectors. Minted in San Francisco in 1909, this coin was the first to feature Abraham Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse, a design that continues to this day. The “VDB” initials on the reverse stand for Victor David Brenner, the designer of the coin, and contribute to its unique value.
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent was only produced in limited numbers, making it rarer than most pennies but still more accessible than the Birch Cent or the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny. Its value comes from its design, the designer’s initials, and its status as part of a famous collectible series.
| Coin Name | Year | Mint Location | Estimated Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1793 Birch Cent | 1793 | Philadelphia | 2 million USD | One of the first U.S. pennies |
| 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny | 1943 | Various | 10 million USD | Bronze composition error |
| 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent | 1909 | San Francisco | High, but less than others | Initials of designer, VDB |
The discovery of these valuable pennies under floorboards shows that hidden treasures can be found in the most unexpected places. Each coin tells a story of history, rarity, and craftsmanship that intrigues collectors and historians alike. Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or someone with a curiosity for rare finds, these coins remind us that there’s always the possibility of finding treasure beneath our feet.
FAQs:
What makes the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny so valuable?
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny is valuable because it was a minting error. Most pennies in 1943 were made of steel to conserve copper for the war, but a few were accidentally made with bronze. This rarity makes the coin worth millions.
How can I identify a 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent?
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent features the initials “VDB” on the reverse side, near the bottom of the coin, and has the “S” mint mark below the date, indicating it was minted in San Francisco.
Why is the 1793 Birch Cent so rare?
The 1793 Birch Cent is rare because it was one of the first pennies produced by the U.S. Mint. Its limited production and age contribute to its value.
