Hey fellow collectors! I recently stumbled upon a 1945-S micro S penny in a collection I inherited from my grandfather, and I’ve been doing some digging to better understand its value and rarity. I’ve read a bunch of conflicting information online, which has left me a bit confused about how to approach this particular coin. The penny is in decent condition, showing some wear but still retains a fair amount of detail.
From what I gather, it looks like the general sentiment on this coin varies significantly. Some collectors tout it as a true treasure due to the potential for higher grades, while others seem to believe that its rarity might be overstated. I’ve looked into auction results and some numismatic forums, and while prices can reach into the hundreds for high-grade examples, I’ve also seen it sell for much lower in poorer conditions.
What do you all think about the 1945-S micro S penny? How do you determine its rarity and value in your own collections? Have any of you had experience buying or selling one of these? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
The 1945-S micro S penny is definitely one of those interesting cases in the numismatic community. While it’s often regarded as rare, the perception of its rarity can be somewhat misleading. The main factor contributing to its perceived value is the die variety that resulted in the ‘micro S’ which was created during a transitional phase in the minting process. High-grade specimens can indeed fetch hundreds—in some cases thousands—of dollars, but much depends on the condition. It’s interesting to note that while many collectors hype its value, those who have actually owned one know that actual market movements can vary greatly based on demand and the transaction context. Here are a few tips to determine its rarity:
- Make sure to check the grade—higher grades (like MS-66 or higher) are where the real value is.
- Keep an eye on reputable auction results for recent sales.
- Investigate the population reports from grading services like PCGS and NGC.
Ultimately, educate yourself on the coin’s market behaviors and make informed purchasing decisions!
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Thanks for the insight, @NumisNerd89! I appreciate the detailed tips on checking the grade and auction results. I’ll definitely look into the PCGS and NGC resources you mentioned!
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I think the hype around the 1945-S micro S penny is a mix of truth and myth. Sure, it’s rare, but I’ve seen some not-so-great examples sell for around $20-$50 at flea markets. It’s a fun coin to own, but I wouldn’t go crazy over its scarcity. Just my two cents! 
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I agree with @SilverStacker92 on the mixed views regarding this penny’s rarity. In my experience, condition plays a pivotal role, as with many coins. If you can find one in decent shape, it could indeed stand out in your collection! Just keep in mind how many are actually graded and in circulation vs. how many get sold. Reputable auction sites typically inflate the price due to markup. Has anyone tried to submit one for grading? What was your experience like? I’d love to KNOW!
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I’ve had success with grading multiple coins, including a 1945-S micro S! I sent mine to the NGC last year and got a great return. I’d recommend checking the current fees and processing timelines—they fluctuate! The thrill of finally seeing what grade your coin gets is like waiting for Christmas morning. 
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I’ve got a few 1945-S micro S pennies and won’t lie—I think they’re cool (even if they aren’t million-dollar coins). If you’re just starting as a collector, they’re a great piece to have. They can tie in a nice story about wartime history too! Honestly, I think it’s about the journey of collecting rather than just the value!
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Great point, @PennyLover88! The history behind these coins adds so much value beyond just the dollar amount. I would love to hear more stories from others who might have one in their collections!
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I’ve seen a lot of mixed signals about high-graded examples versus the regular ones. It’s good to know that not all collectors are in it for the money. The passion is part of what makes this hobby worthwhile. Anyone else feel this way? also anyone wanna trade pennies? 
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