Imagine discovering hidden treasure right under your feet. It sounds like something out of a movie, but for a few lucky individuals, it became a reality when they stumbled upon rare pennies under their floorboards. These coins aren’t just loose change—they’re extraordinary artifacts worth millions. Let’s cut into three of the most fascinating discoveries.
Birch Penny
The 1793 Birch Penny is one of the earliest coins minted in the United States, making it a true piece of American history. It features an elegant depiction of Lady Liberty on one side and a delicate floral design on the other. This coin holds immense historical value, as it represents the young nation’s initial steps into its monetary system.
A Birch Penny observed under a couch cushion shocked the numismatic world. Valued at an impressive $2 million, it remains a coveted item for collectors. Its scarcity and role in the founding era of U.S. currency make it an iconic find.
Bronze Lincoln Penny
In 1943, the U.S. Mint produced pennies from steel due to copper shortages during World War II. However, a few 1943 Lincoln Pennies were mistakenly made with bronze, making them extremely rare.
One of these rare coins was observed beneath the floorboards of a California home. Its value? A staggering $10 million. This penny’s unique composition and historical context make it one of the most sought-after coins in existence. It’s a symbol of how small minting errors can lead to enormous value.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
Another intriguing discovery was the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent, found beneath a wooden floor. This coin was minted in San Francisco, and its initials “VDB” honor its designer, Victor David Brenner. While not as rare as the Birch Penny or the Bronze Lincoln, it still holds significant value due to its limited production run and historical importance.
The 1909-S VDB coin is a favorite among collectors and is valued for its connection to the debut of the Lincoln penny. Though its worth doesn’t reach the heights of the others, it still commands thousands of dollars at auction.
Significant
These pennies remind us that treasure could be hidden in the most unexpected places. Each coin tells a unique story of American history, from the nation’s earliest days to wartime efforts and beyond. Whether you’re an avid coin collector or simply intrigued by history, the possibility of finding such treasures is captivating.
Who knows? The next time you check under your floorboards, you might just stumble upon a piece of history waiting to be uncovered.
FAQs
What makes the 1793 Birch Penny special?
It’s one of the first pennies ever minted in the U.S.
Why is the 1943 Lincoln Bronze Penny valuable?
It was mistakenly made with bronze instead of steel, making it rare.
How much is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent worth?
It’s valued at thousands due to its limited mintage and historical significance.
Where was a 1943 Lincoln Bronze Penny found?
Under the floorboards of a house in California.
Why do collectors value the 1909-S VDB penny?
It marks the debut of the Lincoln cent and honors its designer.
