The Lincoln Wheat Penny That Could Be Worth a Fortune
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a big deal for coin collectors. First made in 1909 to celebrate Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, it was the first U.S. coin to show a real person instead of the usual Lady Liberty. Created by artist Victor David Brenner, the front shows Lincoln’s face, while the back has two wheat stalks and the words “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” That’s how it got the nickname “Wheat Penny.” These coins were made until 1958, after which the design changed to feature the Lincoln Memorial.
Why Some Lincoln Pennies Are Worth So Much
Most Wheat Pennies aren’t worth more than a few cents. But some rare versions can sell for huge amounts—sometimes even over a million dollars. While stories of a single coin being worth $130 million are often exaggerated, it’s true that certain Lincoln Pennies are worth a lot due to their rarity, history, and high demand among collectors.
The Famous 1943 Copper Penny
The most valuable Lincoln Penny is from 1943—and it’s made of copper. That year, because of World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to making pennies out of steel coated with zinc to save copper for the war. However, a few copper coin blanks from the previous year accidentally got used, creating a rare batch of 1943 copper pennies. These coins are now among the most prized in American coin collecting.
How Much Are These Coins Really Worth?
Even though the internet is full of rumors, no Lincoln Penny has officially sold for $130 million. However, in 2010, a 1943 copper penny sold for $1.7 million at auction. Other rare examples have sold for hundreds of thousands, depending on their condition and where they were minted. The 1943-D copper penny, made in Denver, is incredibly rare—only one verified example exists and experts believe it could be worth over $2 million.
Other Valuable Lincoln Pennies
The 1943 copper isn’t the only Wheat Penny worth a lot. Others include:
- 1909-S VDB: Only 484,000 made. Can sell for tens of thousands in excellent shape.
- 1914-D: Rare and valuable, especially in good condition.
- 1922 “No D”: A minting error makes this coin desirable.
- 1955 Double Die: Shows a doubled image in the design—highly collectible.
How to Spot a Rare Lincoln Penny
Think you’ve found a valuable Lincoln Penny? Here’s how to check:
- Use a magnet: Real 1943 copper pennies won’t stick to a magnet, but steel ones will.
- Weigh it: Copper pennies weigh about 3.11 grams. Steel ones are lighter, at 2.7 grams.
- Look closely at the date: Some fakes are made by altering the number “8” in 1948 pennies to look like a “3.”
If you’re unsure, a professional coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC can help confirm if your penny is genuine.
Could Rare Pennies Still Be in Circulation?
Most rare coins have already been found, but there’s still a small chance one could turn up in loose change, old jars, or inherited collections. It’s unlikely—but not impossible—which is why collectors keep looking.
Why People Love Collecting Coins
Coin collecting is more than a hobby—it’s a way to connect with history. Each coin tells a story about the time it was made, from changes in materials during wartime to unique minting errors. The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a favorite among beginners and expert collectors alike because it’s easy to find but can also be incredibly valuable.
Even though finding a million-dollar penny is rare, the idea that it could happen is what makes collecting so exciting. It’s a mix of history, treasure hunting, and maybe even hitting the jackpot—all in one little coin.
A Word of Caution
This article is for informational use only. Coin prices change depending on the market and the condition of the coin. The values listed here come from past sales and expert estimates, but they aren’t guaranteed. If you think you have a rare coin, always get it checked by a trusted coin expert or a certified grading service. And remember: if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.