Have you ever thought a simple penny could be worth millions? Sounds crazy, right? But there’s a coin out there—a Lincoln Wheat Penny—that sold for a jaw-dropping $7.9 million. It’s a true treasure hidden in plain sight, and some believe it might still be out there, waiting to be found.
What is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny first came out in 1909. It was made to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday. Victor D. Brenner designed it. On one side, it has Lincoln’s face. On the back, you’ll see two wheat stalks.
These pennies were made until 1958. After that, the U.S. started making the Lincoln Memorial design. Over the years, billions of Wheat Pennies were used by Americans for daily shopping. Most of them are only worth one cent. But a few rare ones? They’re worth a lot more—especially one from 1943.
Why is 1943 Penny So Special?
During World War II, the U.S. needed copper for war equipment. So, in 1943, pennies were made from steel instead. These steel pennies looked silver and were easy to spot.
But here’s where things get interesting. Some copper blanks were accidentally left in the machines. As a result, a few 1943 pennies were made in copper by mistake.
This small error created one of the rarest coins in history. Experts believe fewer than 20 real copper 1943 pennies exist. Because they’re so rare and have a cool story behind them, they’re worth a lot of money—millions in some cases. One of them sold for $7.9 million. Yes, a single penny!
Can One Still Be Found in Circulation
It might sound like a dream, but yes—there’s a tiny chance one of these rare pennies could still be out there. Most people don’t look at their pennies closely. Some don’t even care about them. They end up in jars, drawers, or mixed in with other change.
Several of these rare coins were found by everyday people. They just happened to notice something odd about a penny. So, coin experts think a few might still be hiding out in old collections or even in someone’s pocket change.
This small hope has made many people curious. Some now check every penny they get. Who knows? You might have a treasure lying in your piggy bank.
How to Know if You Have a Rare 1943 Penny
So, how do you check if your penny is special? Here’s what to look for:
- Check the year – Look for 1943.
- Look at the color – The valuable ones are copper, not silver.
- Use a magnet – Steel pennies will stick to a magnet. Copper ones won’t.
- Look for the mint mark – It’s under the date. It might have a small “D” (Denver), “S” (San Francisco), or no mark (Philadelphia).
Be careful, though. Some fakes are out there. If you think you found a real one, don’t clean it or damage it. Take it to a coin expert. They can test the metal and confirm if it’s real.
Why Are People So Obsessed With This Coin?
This coin isn’t just about money. It tells a story. It’s about history, war, and a little mistake that turned into a treasure. It reminds us that big things can come in small packages.
Collectors love stories like this. It’s not just about owning something rare. It’s about owning a piece of the past. That’s what makes this penny so special. Plus, the idea that you might find something so valuable in your pocket? That’s just exciting. It’s like a real-life treasure hunt.
Other Valuable Pennies to Watch For
Even if you don’t find the $7.9 million penny, some other Lincoln Wheat Pennies are still worth good money. Here are a few examples:
| Year | Mint Mark | Approx. Value (Good Condition) |
|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | S | $600 – $1,000+ |
| 1914-D | D | $150 – $2,000+ |
| 1922 Plain | None | $500 – $1,500+ |
These might be in old coin collections or rolls from the bank. Keep an eye out!
How to Get Started with Coin Collecting
Coin collecting is a fun hobby. You don’t need a lot of money to start. Just grab a magnifying glass and check your change.
You can also visit local coin shops or join coin clubs. Talking with other collectors helps you learn faster. And who knows—you might just stumble upon a lucky find.
Never clean your coins, though. Cleaning can damage them and lower their value. Just store them safely and handle them carefully.
FAQs
What makes the 1943 penny so rare?
It was made in copper by mistake during a year when pennies were supposed to be steel.
How do I know if I have a copper 1943 penny?
Check the date, color, and try using a magnet—copper won’t stick.
Can I still find one today?
Yes, but it’s very rare and unlikely.
Should I clean old pennies I find?
No. Cleaning can ruin their value.
Who can check if my coin is real?
A certified coin expert or dealer can confirm it.
