Most people hardly notice pennies. They’re small, often overlooked, and worth just one cent. But what if one ordinary-looking penny could actually be worth $100,000? That’s the case with a rare version of the Lincoln Wheat Penny. Some of these coins, minted decades ago, are now worth a fortune. Let’s dive into the history of this penny, why it’s so valuable, and how one might still be hiding in everyday pocket change.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first introduced in 1909 to mark the 100th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It replaced the Indian Head Penny and became the first U.S. coin to feature a real person Abraham Lincoln on the obverse (front).
On the reverse (back), the coin displayed two wheat stalks, symbolizing America’s agricultural roots. That’s why it became known as the “Wheat Penny.”
This design lasted until 1958. In 1959, the reverse was changed to show the Lincoln Memorial. Despite the design change, the Wheat Penny remains popular among collectors for its historic value and unique look.
The Rare 1943 Copper Penny – Worth $100,000
Among all Lincoln Wheat Pennies, the 1943 copper version is the most legendary. The reason is simple: it wasn’t supposed to exist.
During World War II, copper was critical for producing war equipment. To conserve it, the U.S. Mint made pennies from zinc-coated steel in 1943. But due to a mistake, a few pennies were struck using leftover copper planchets from the previous year.
These “error coins” are extremely rare. If you happen to find a 1943 penny made of copper instead of steel, its value could reach $100,000 or even higher, especially if the coin is in excellent condition.
Are These Rare Pennies Still Around?
It might seem impossible that such valuable coins are still out there, but a few might be. Many have already been collected or removed from circulation, yet some could still be tucked away in old jars, piggy banks, or forgotten boxes.
While finding one in everyday change is rare, it isn’t entirely out of the question. That’s why coin enthusiasts continue to check every penny they come across just in case.
How to Identify a Valuable Lincoln Wheat Penny
If you’re curious about whether your pennies could be worth more than face value, here are some things to look out for:
- Check the Year
Certain years are especially valuable:- 1909 (especially with “VDB” on the bottom)
- 1914-D (minted in Denver)
- 1922 (rare “no mint mark” version)
- 1943 copper (not steel test with a magnet)
- Look for Errors
Printing mistakes can make coins much more valuable. A famous example is the 1955 doubled die penny, which shows doubled lettering. - Examine the Condition
The better the coin’s condition, the higher the value. Shiny, well-preserved coins fetch more than worn ones. - Get a Professional Opinion
If you think you’ve found something special, take it to a professional coin dealer or have it appraised.
Conclusion
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just a piece of spare change it’s a piece of American history. And the rare 1943 copper penny, created by accident, has become one of the most valuable coins in the world of numismatics.
So, the next time you find a penny, don’t dismiss it. With a little luck, it could turn out to be worth far more than a single cent maybe even $100,000.