Imagine finding a penny worth $43,000 just by checking your coin jar. It sounds unbelievable, but it’s true! Some S Mint Mark Wheat Pennies with a Re-Punched Mint Mark (RPM) error are worth tens of thousands of dollars. One such penny has fetched up to $43,000 at auction.
Let’s look at why this coin is so special and how to find one.
What Is a Re-Punched Mint Mark (RPM)?
An RPM (Re-Punched Mint Mark) is a rare minting error. It happens when the mint mark—like the letter “S” for the San Francisco Mint—is accidentally stamped more than once in slightly different spots on the same coin. This results in a visible “double” mint mark effect, often called S over S (S/S).
These errors happened before mint marks were added by machine. Since they were hand-punched, mistakes were more common.
The $43,000 S RPM Wheat Penny
One of the most valuable of these is a S Mint Wheat Penny with a strong RPM, which sold for $43,000. This particular penny is from the 1950s and shows a clearly doubled “S” mark. Because it’s rare and in excellent condition, it was highly desired by collectors.
Not every RPM penny will be worth that much, but those in perfect shape and with clear minting errors can fetch thousands.
How to Spot an S/S RPM Wheat Penny
If you’re curious whether you own one, follow these steps:
Look at wheat pennies from the 1940s and 1950s with an “S” mint mark under the year. Use a magnifying glass or coin microscope. If you notice a second, lighter impression of the “S,” you might have a repunched mint mark.
Professional coin grading companies can confirm the coin’s value and error.
Why Is It So Valuable?
RPM coins are rare because they were not made on purpose. They are minting mistakes that slipped through. Collectors love rare errors, and when the coin is old, in excellent condition, and shows the error clearly, it becomes very valuable.
Coins like these are hard to find today, which is why prices can climb into the tens of thousands.
A penny with an S/S mint mark might not look like much, but it could be worth up to $43,000. If you’ve got old coins lying around, take a few minutes to check them. You never know what hidden treasure you might have. For coin collectors and curious beginners alike, minting errors like RPMs offer a fun and possibly profitable reason to start looking more closely at your change.
FAQ’s
What is a re-punched mint mark (RPM)?
An RPM happens when the mint mark, like ‘S’ for San Francisco, is stamped more than once in different spots. It creates a visible double mark, making the coin rare and collectible.
Which S Mint Wheat Penny is worth $43,000?
A 1950s S Mint Wheat Penny with a strong S/S re-punched mint mark in excellent condition was sold for up to $43,000 at auction.
How do I find an S/S RPM Wheat Penny?
Look at Wheat Pennies from the 1940s and 1950s with an ‘S’ mint mark. Use a magnifying glass to check for a doubled or shadow-like ‘S’.
Why are RPM pennies so valuable?
They are rare minting mistakes that weren’t meant to be released. When found in good condition and clearly showing the error, they are very valuable to collectors.
Should I get my coin professionally graded?
Yes. If you think you have a coin with an RPM, especially an S over S mint mark, it’s best to get it appraised by a certified coin grading service.
