Think your loose change isn’t worth much? 🤔 Think again! A rare 2021 error penny — nicknamed the “Explorius Penny” — has shocked the coin world, selling for up to $150,000 at auction. 💸
If you’ve got a jar of coins sitting around, one of these modern treasures could be waiting for you!
🔍 How to Identify the 2021 “Explorius” Error Penny
Collectors call it the “STATES OF EXPLORIOUS UNUM” error — and here’s what makes it so unique and valuable:
✅ Obverse Error Details
- Reads “STATES OF EXPLORIOUS” instead of STATES OF AMERICA
- Shows “UNUM” in the wrong position (missing E PLURIBUS)
- Visible strike-through mark on the surface
- 2021 date – newer errors are gaining serious collector attention
⚙️ Error Type
- Class V Strike-Through (foreign material caught during minting)
- Possible misplaced die clash (dual impression)
- Severe text misprint – ultra-rare and highly collectible! 🔥
💵 2024 Price & Value Guide
| Grade | PCGS Certified Value | Raw (Ungraded) Value |
|---|---|---|
| MS-63 | 💎 $85,000 – $110,000 | $35,000 – $60,000 |
| MS-65 | 🏆 $125,000 – $150,000 | $75,000 – $90,000 |
| AU-58 | $45,000 – $65,000 | $25,000 – $40,000 |
📈 Fun Fact: One “Explorius” penny sold for $92,500 in 2023 through Heritage Auctions!
🔬 4 Easy Ways to Authenticate Your Coin
1️⃣ Magnification Test (30x) – Check for fine flow lines and strike-through texture.
2️⃣ Weight & Diameter – Should read 2.5g (zinc) or 3.11g (copper); diameter 19.05 mm.
3️⃣ UV Light Check – Real errors show unique patina reflections.
4️⃣ Edge Inspection – Look for uneven reeding or collar marks.
💎 Why This Penny Is So Special
✨ Only 3–5 examples are known to exist.
🏅 The “Explorius” variant is the rarest modern error penny.
📅 The 2021 date gives it special historical significance.
💥 Combo of text + strike errors = numismatic perfection!
🏆 Best Ways to Sell Your Rare Coin
- ✅ Get it professionally graded (PCGS or NGC).
- 💰 List through Heritage Auctions for top-dollar bids.
- 🔒 Work with trusted private dealers or auction houses.
- 🎯 Showcase at error coin conventions for serious collectors.
🚨 Important Tip: Never clean your coin! Cleaning can permanently damage the patina and slash its value.
📸 Want Free Help Authenticating Your Penny?
Send us:
📌 Clear front & back photos
📌 Microscope close-ups of the error
📌 Weight measurements
🎁 Bonus: Get our Free Error Coin Authentication Checklist when you contact us!
🪙 Final Thoughts
It’s incredible to think that a 2021 penny — something you might find in your wallet — could be worth more than a luxury car. 🚗💨
So before you spend that spare change, take a closer look… you might just be holding a $150,000 treasure in your hand! 💰✨
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