Rare and Collectible Queen Victoria Pennies: What to Look For

Queen Victoria reigned from 1837 to 1901, and during her long rule, a variety of pennies were minted. These coins are among the most iconic in British numismatics. Some Victoria pennies are extremely rare and valuable, while others, though not super rare, are still worth more than their weight in copper.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned collector, knowing which Victoria pennies are worth looking out for can make all the difference. Here’s a breakdown of the key dates and varieties to keep an eye on.

The Three Main “Victoria” Penny Types

1. Young Head (1838–1859)

2. Mature (Bun) Head (1860–1894)

3. Old Head (1895–1901)

Each type has its rarities and collectible dates.

Rare Victoria Pennies

1839 Penny (Proof Only)

• Why it’s rare: Not issued for circulation—only struck as a proof.

• Value: £1,000+ depending on condition and quality of the strike.

• Features: Young Head portrait, with exquisite detail.

1863 Penny

• Why it’s rare: Very low mintage. One of the scarcest of the Bun Head series.

• Value: £200–£800 or more depending on condition.

• Tip: Real 1863 pennies are often counterfeited—get them authenticated if you’re unsure.

1869 & 1871 Pennies

• Why they’re rare: Low mintages and harder to find in good condition.

• Value: £100–£400+

• Note: High-grade versions are especially prized.

1882H & 1882 without H

• What’s special: Two types exist for 1882—one from the Heaton Mint (with ‘H’ under the date), and one from the Royal Mint (no H).

• Value: The 1882 (no H) is rarer and more valuable.

• Value range: £50–£200+

Not So Rare, But Still Collectible

1841 Penny

• Why it’s collected: One of the harder early Young Head pennies to find, especially in good grade.

• Value: £30–£150 depending on wear.

1858 Large Date vs Small Date

• What’s interesting: The 1858 penny comes in two varieties—one with a large date and one with a small date. The small date is harder to find.

• Value: £20–£100+

1897 and 1899 Old Head Pennies

• Why they’re collectible: Not rare, but the Old Head design has a classic appeal. Uncirculated examples can fetch good prices.

• Value: £5–£30 depending on grade.

Things That Add Value

• Condition: Coins in Very Fine (VF), Extremely Fine (EF), or Uncirculated condition are worth significantly more.

• Mint Marks: Look for the “H” under the date (Heaton Mint), which often indicates a scarcer variety.

• Errors: Mis-struck or misaligned coins from the Victoria era can be highly collectible.

Final Tips for Collectors

• Start with Bun Head pennies—they’re common enough to build a solid collection but include a few rare years.

• Use a magnifying glass to inspect dates and mint marks.

• Avoid harsh cleaning—original patina is more valuable to collectors than shiny, cleaned coins.

• Buy from trusted sources if you’re hunting for higher-value pieces.

Queen Victoria pennies are a great entry point into the world of British coin collecting. They carry history, charm, and—if you’re lucky—hidden value. Keep an eye out in old coin jars, antique shops, and online markets. You never know when you might stumble upon a hidden gem.