What if the next penny you pick up from your pocket change isn’t worth just one cent—but thousands of dollars? That’s what’s happening to collectors who’ve stumbled across “struck through grease” mint error pennies. These rare coins were produced when grease or debris interfered with the minting process, causing parts of the design to appear faint, missing, or blurry. Surprisingly, these error coins often go unnoticed in circulation—until someone with a sharp eye cashes in big. Below are three rare pennies with this error that have sold for jaw-dropping amounts.
1983 Struck Through Grease Lincoln Cent
The 1983 Lincoln penny is infamous among collectors for several reasons, but one particularly rare variety is the struck through grease error version. In these coins, parts of Lincoln’s image—often the face, date, or lettering—appear faded or missing. This makes the coin look like a worn-out piece at first, but in reality, it’s a factory mistake. A 1983 penny with a well-defined grease error in uncirculated condition once sold for over $2,500. Because the flaw wasn’t easily detected during production, it slipped into circulation unnoticed.
1999 Lincoln Memorial Penny with Obverse Grease Strike
Another valuable example is the 1999 Lincoln penny, which sometimes displays a severe grease strike on the obverse (front) of the coin. In these cases, parts of Lincoln’s bust or the “IN GOD WE TRUST” inscription may appear barely visible or completely gone. While it might look damaged to an untrained eye, collectors know better. This error adds serious value when authenticated. A near-mint 1999 grease error penny fetched around $1,800 at auction, especially since later-date errors are less common.
1970-S Small Date Penny Struck Through Grease
Combining two highly collectible features, the 1970-S Small Date penny with a struck through grease error is a major find. This penny already holds value due to its small date variety, but when struck through grease—often obscuring Lincoln’s jacket or part of “LIBERTY”—its worth can soar. One high-grade example sold for over $3,000, making it a dream for error coin hunters. If you find a weak strike on a 1970-S with faint date features, it’s worth examining.
Errors That Turn Pennies Into Paydays
Mint errors like struck through grease can turn ordinary coins into valuable collectibles. These mistakes are hard to spot unless you know what to look for. Many people unknowingly spend them. But a little attention to detail can lead to a big payday. Always inspect your change—especially older pennies with blurry or missing details. Your next coin could be a hidden jackpot.
FAQ’s:
1. What does “struck through grease” mean on a coin?
It’s a minting error where grease or debris blocks the design, causing missing or faded features.
2. Are these coins rare?
Yes, especially when the error is clear and the coin is in good condition—they’re prized by collectors.
3. Can I find these in circulation?
Yes. Many struck through grease pennies are still out there in everyday change.
4. How much are these error pennies worth?
Depending on the coin’s year, grade, and error clarity, values can range from $100 to over $3,000.
5. Where can I get a coin like this checked?
Send it to PCGS or NGC for authentication and grading to maximize its value.
