Hello, I'm an expert in numismatics, which is the study and collection of coins, tokens, and medals. When it comes to the value of a penny, there are several factors that can make one more valuable than another, such as rarity, condition, historical significance, and mint errors.

The most valuable U.S. penny in terms of historical significance and rarity is the 1792 925 Silver Center Cent. This penny is extremely rare, with only a few known to exist. It was the first penny produced by the United States Mint and features a central plug of silver between a copper rim. The rarity and historical significance make it highly valuable to collectors.

However, when it comes to the highest price ever paid for a penny at auction, the title goes to the 1933 Double Eagle, which is a $20 gold coin, not a penny, but it's worth mentioning due to its record-setting price. The 1933 Double Eagle is a different denomination, but for the sake of the question, it's important to note that it holds the record for the most valuable U.S. coin sold at auction.

In terms of actual pennies, a 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent can also be quite valuable. These were accidentally minted in bronze during World War II when copper was needed for the war effort, making them rare and sought after by collectors.

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While collectors are unlikely to find a 1792 Birch Cent, worth 2.5 million dollars, in their pocket change, some pennies are worth serious bucks. Beginning collectors may start by saving wheat pennies, dated 1909 to 1958, while watching for the top 10 most valuable pennies. The 1943 copper-alloy penny was a mistake.read more >>