Finding treasure usually involves digging through caves or diving into shipwrecks—but what if the real treasure is in your pocket change? One of the rarest coins in U.S. history, the Lincoln Wheat Penny, could be worth up to $5,700,000—and one might be hiding in your wallet, piggy bank, or old coin jar.
Let’s explore what makes this small coin so valuable, how to identify one, and why millions of people are now checking their spare change just in case.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
First minted in 1909 to honor President Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, the Lincoln Wheat Penny marked a historical milestone—it was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person’s face. Designed by Victor D. Brenner, it showcases Lincoln’s profile on the front and two wheat stalks flanking the words “One Cent” on the back, symbolizing growth and prosperity.
The design was used from 1909 to 1958, after which it was replaced by the image of the Lincoln Memorial. Today, collectors are always on the hunt for Wheat Pennies, especially those with rare traits that make them incredibly valuable.
Why Is One Lincoln Wheat Penny Worth $5,700,000?
While most Wheat Pennies are only worth face value or a few dollars, certain minting mistakes have created ultra-rare versions. The crown jewel among them is the 1943 copper Wheat Penny.
During World War II, copper was needed for the war effort, so the U.S. Mint switched to making pennies out of zinc-coated steel. However, a few copper planchets (coin blanks) left over from 1942 accidentally made their way into the coin presses in 1943. These copper pennies should not exist—and that’s what makes them so desirable.
Only about 40 of these 1943 copper pennies are known to exist, and one in pristine condition is now valued at a jaw-dropping $5.7 million.
Here’s What Makes This Story Even More Incredible
These rare pennies weren’t scooped up and locked away in museums or vaults. In fact, experts believe a few may still be in circulation. That means someone could unknowingly have one in their change jar or even spend it without realizing its value.
Even more fascinating: there are other rare versions of Wheat Pennies that collectors crave. Some have mint mark errors, while others have doubling errors—where the numbers or letters appear slightly doubled, often visible with the naked eye or a magnifying glass.
These tiny imperfections make certain coins even more valuable to numismatists (coin collectors). So, if you’re sorting through old coins, don’t just look at the year—look closely at the details, too.
How to Spot a Rare 1943 Copper Wheat Penny
If you want to start hunting for treasure in your own home, follow these steps:
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Check the Year: Look for pennies dated 1943.
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Look at the Color: Steel pennies look silver; copper pennies are brownish-red.
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Try the Magnet Test: Steel pennies will stick to a magnet. Copper ones will not.
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Inspect the Details: Look for doubling or unusual spacing in the text and date.
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Don’t Clean the Coin: Cleaning it can destroy its collector value. Leave it in its original state.
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Get a Professional Opinion: If you suspect you’ve found something valuable, have it evaluated by a certified coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Why You Should Start Checking Your Pennies
Even if you don’t find a $5.7 million coin, some Lincoln Wheat Pennies—like the 1909-S VDB or the 1914-D—can be worth hundreds to thousands of dollars, especially in excellent condition.
That’s why checking your change isn’t just a quirky hobby—it could be a life-changing discovery. Your next grocery run or couch-cleaning session might be all it takes to uncover a piece of American history worth a fortune.
FAQs
Can I really find a $5.7 million penny in circulation?
Yes, while extremely rare, there are still believed to be a few 1943 copper Wheat Pennies out there. Some may be sitting unnoticed in old coin jars or passed down in family collections.
What makes the 1943 copper penny so special?
It was a minting mistake during WWII. The government used steel for pennies in 1943, but a few copper blanks were accidentally used, making those coins exceptionally rare.
How do I tell if my 1943 penny is copper or steel?
Do a magnet test. Steel pennies stick to magnets, while copper ones don’t. Also, check the color—copper is brownish-red, steel is silver-gray.
Are there other rare Wheat Pennies to watch for?
Yes! The 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, and any coin with doubling errors or missing mint marks can be highly valuable.
Where can I sell a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny?
Reputable coin dealers, auction houses, and rare coin marketplaces are good options—but be sure to have your coin authenticated first to get top dollar.
Final Tip: If you’re ready to join the treasure hunt, grab a magnifying glass and start checking those pennies. Who knows? That copper-colored coin you’ve overlooked for years could be the key to your financial breakthrough.
