“The U.S. Mint accidentally created a valuable error on 2021 pennies – and you can still find them in circulation today. Here’s exactly how to identify and profit from these cracked coins.”
The Million-Dollar Mint Mistake
In 2021, a die deterioration error caused dramatic cracks to appear on Lincoln pennies. These errors have sold for $150-$475+ depending on severity and preservation. Unlike most errors, these are still being found in pocket change.
How to Spot the Valuable 2021 Cracked Pennies
🔍 Step 1: Check the Date
✅ Must be 2021 only (Philadelphia or Denver mint)
🔍 Step 2: Examine Lincoln’s Portrait
✅ Look for thick, raised cracks running through:
- Lincoln’s cheek
- “IN GOD WE TRUST”
- Date area
🔍 Step 3: Verify Authenticity
✅ Compare to PCGS CoinFacts images
✅ Weigh: Must be 2.5g (zinc composition)
![Close-up of 2021 cracked penny error]
Current Market Values (2024)
| Crack Severity | Ungraded Value | Graded Value (MS65+) |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Crack | $20-$50 | $100-$150 |
| Moderate Crack | $75-$150 | $200-$300 |
| Severe Crack | $200-$475 | $500-$1,000 |
Recent Sales:
- eBay 5/2024: $475 (severe crack, MS63)
- Heritage 4/2024: $310 (moderate crack, MS65)
Where to Find These Error Pennies
- Bank Rolls (Ask for 2021 penny rolls)
- Cashier Change (Check every 2021 penny)
- Coin Shops (Some overlook these errors)
Pro Tip: Focus on Denver mint (D) coins – cracks appear more frequently.
How to Sell for Maximum Profit
💰 For Single Coins ($20-$100):
- Sell on eBay (list as “2021 Cracked Die Penny Error”)
- Facebook coin groups
💰 For Graded Coins ($100+):
- Submit to PCGS/NGC if MS65+
- Auction through Heritage or GreatCollections
💰 Bulk Lots (5+ coins):
- Sell to error coin dealers like Liberty Coin
“I Found One! Now What?”
- Don’t Clean It! (Kills value)
- Store in a Coin Flip ($0.10 protection)
- Research Sold Listings (eBay completed sales)
- Get Second Opinions (r/coins on Reddit)
FAQ
Q: Are all 2021 pennies valuable?
A: Only those with visible die cracks – most are face value.
Q: Could this be post-mint damage?
A: Authentic cracks show flow lines from the die – consult experts.
Q: How many exist?
A: Thousands, but gem-quality examples are rare.
Want More? Download our FREE 2021 Error Penny Cheat Sheet at [CoinErrorTools.com]
Like & Share to help fellow hunters! #PennyErrors #CoinHunting #USMintMistakes
PS: Your next 2021 penny could be worth $475+ – check those dates! 🚀💰
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