You should have sufficient knowledge concerning the grading of coins. Additionally, it is necessary that you acquire a good catalog on coins that lists the specifics concerning value, markings, and rarity. A listing of sources for the purchase of rare coins would be valuable both for buying and selling coins.
Why are you collecting pennies? Is it for business or pleasure? In either case, research pays off.
Start with a trip to your local library. If there is a coin dealer nearby, get to know that person.
Finally, look for web sites to learn more and make penny world contacts.
Ideally, you'll want to learn what years had misprint pennies or what style of penny is rarer than others and what year the penny was made of different metal.
Before beginning to collect rare pennies, you should know how and where to find them. You should also know what pennies are truly valuable, and what effect the condition has on the value. You should also make sure you have the ability to properly care for and store the coins.
First and most important you should do a google search about selectable destinations, most like popularly spots where coins have been found or area that are know for coins.
Secondly you would want to invest in a really good metal detector.
Try searching for coins with a partner to cover a wider area.