A small copper coin most people ignore could actually be a hidden jackpot. The Lincoln Wheat Penny, first minted in 1909, has become one of the most collectible and valuable coins in American history.
And one rare version is now worth up to $188,000. Even more exciting? It might still be out there in someone’s pocket, jar, or wallet.
So before you spend that old penny or toss it into the coin jar, give it another look. You could be holding a fortune.
History
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was the first U.S. coin to feature a real historical figure—President Abraham Lincoln. It was minted from 1909 to 1958, and its reverse side featured two wheat stalks, giving the coin its popular nickname.
While most of these coins are worth only face value, some rare editions have become extremely valuable due to their limited production or unusual minting errors.
Rarity
One of the most valuable versions of the Wheat Penny is the 1943 bronze edition. In 1943, due to a copper shortage during World War II, the U.S. Mint began making pennies out of steel coated with zinc.
However, a small number of pennies were accidentally minted using leftover bronze planchets. These bronze 1943 pennies are incredibly rare and sought after by collectors.
In fact, one of these rare coins was recently sold at auction for $188,000, turning a common-looking penny into a serious payday.
Detection
You don’t need to be a professional coin collector to check your change. Here are a few simple ways to identify a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny:
| What to Check | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Year | Look for key years like 1943, 1909-S VDB, and 1914-D |
| Magnet Test | 1943 pennies should be steel (magnetic). If not, it might be bronze |
| Mint Mark | Look for small letters under the date: D (Denver), S (San Francisco) |
| Coin Condition | Coins in clean, crisp condition hold more value |
Circulation
Because most people don’t pay much attention to old pennies, these valuable coins may still be in everyday circulation. They’ve been known to turn up in piggy banks, old coin jars, and even as loose change at the store.
Many of these rare coins look just like regular old pennies, so it’s easy to overlook them. But if you take the time to check, you might uncover one of the most valuable coins ever made by accident.
Treasure
The Lincoln Wheat Penny might be small and humble, but one rare version—especially the 1943 bronze edition—is now worth up to $188,000. That’s a serious return on a one-cent coin.
If you’ve got a handful of old pennies or stumble across one with the wheat design, take a second look. You just might be holding a piece of history… and a major windfall.
FAQs
Why is the 1943 penny so valuable?
Because a few were mistakenly made of bronze instead of steel.
How can I test my 1943 penny?
Use a magnet. If it doesn’t stick, it might be a rare bronze penny.
Where do I find the mint mark?
Below the date on the front of the coin.
Can this penny still be in use?
Yes, it could still be in jars, drawers, or even daily change.
What if I think I found one?
Have it appraised by a certified coin dealer or numismatist.
