Among the various denominations, the penny often captures particular interest due to its wide circulation and long history.
While most pennies are worth their face value or slightly more, some ultra-rare variants are highly sought after by collectors, fetching astonishing prices.
During World War II, the United States Mint sought to conserve copper for the war effort.
As a result, pennies were made from zinc-coated steel instead of the usual bronze.
This error was not discovered until years later, and it is estimated that only 20 to 30 of these coins exist.
Their rarity, combined with the historical significance, makes them highly valuable. In January 2019, a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent sold for $204,000 at auction.
Collectors prize these coins not just for their rarity but also for the intriguing story of how they came to be.