An unsuspecting family in Oklahoma recently discovered a 1914-D Lincoln Penny tucked between the pages of a century-old Bible. What initially appeared to be a sentimental bookmark turned out to be a rare numismatic gem valued at over $52,000 due to its historical significance and scarcity.
This story reignites interest in one of the most sought-after Lincoln Wheat Cents ever minted.
What Makes the 1914-D Lincoln Penny So Valuable?
The 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny is treasured by collectors for two main reasons: its low mintage and high demand. With only 1,193,000 coins struck at the Denver Mint, it’s one of the few early Lincoln cents with a sub-two-million production total. Surviving examples, especially in fine to uncirculated condition, are rare, making this penny a key date for serious collectors.
Historical Context of the 1914-D Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln cent, introduced in 1909, quickly became a collector favorite. By 1914, three mints were producing the coin: Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Denver. However, the Denver Mint produced significantly fewer coins that year, making the 1914-D one of the lowest-mintage circulation cents of its era. It has since become one of the top ten key dates in the Lincoln cent series.
Characteristics to Identify a Genuine 1914-D Penny
Identifying a genuine 1914-D Lincoln cent is critical, as many counterfeits exist. Collectors and sellers should look for the following:
- The “D” mintmark should be just below the date, and aligned slightly right of center
- The coin should weigh approximately 3.11 grams
- The color ranges from red-brown to brown, depending on wear and toning
- Professional grading by PCGS or NGC is recommended to verify authenticity
Auction Value and Market Trends
This specific Bible-discovered coin was graded VF30 (Very Fine) by a third-party grading service and was recently sold at auction for $52,000. Prices vary significantly based on condition:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| G4 (Good) | $200 – $300 |
| F12 (Fine) | $600 – $800 |
| VF30 (Very Fine) | $3,500 – $5,000 |
| XF40 (Extremely Fine) | $9,000 – $12,000 |
| MS60 (Mint State) | $20,000+ |
| MS65 (Gem) | $50,000 – $60,000 |
Is It Still Possible to Find One?
While rare, stories like this demonstrate it’s still possible to find a 1914-D Lincoln Penny in old coin jars, books, trunks, or inherited collections. Coins with historical roots often remain hidden for decades in personal belongings. If you come across an old Lincoln cent, it’s worth checking the date and mintmark—because it could be a valuable piece of American history.
How to Protect and Preserve Rare Pennies
If you own a valuable penny like the 1914-D, store it in a non-PVC coin holder or slab it through a trusted third-party grading service. Avoid cleaning the coin, as that can significantly lower its market value. Proper storage will ensure its longevity and value appreciation over time.
Conclusion
The discovery of a 1914-D Lincoln Penny inside a family Bible is a testament to how numismatic treasures can hide in plain sight. This coin’s rarity, historical context, and collector demand make it a significant prize in any collection.
As more people take interest in rare U.S. coins, finds like this continue to inspire both amateur and expert collectors to search their attics, bookshelves, and family heirlooms.