Many people dream of finding treasure, but few realize it might be hiding right in their pocket. One unassuming coin—the Lincoln Wheat Penny—has shocked collectors and treasure hunters alike with its potential value. In rare cases, this tiny piece of metal could fetch up to $5,000,000.
Even crazier? Some of these valuable coins are still out there in everyday circulation. Let’s break down why this penny is such a big deal and how you might be lucky enough to find one.
Origins
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was introduced in 1909, marking 100 years since Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person’s portrait—designed by Victor David Brenner—and it instantly became a national icon. On one side, it shows Lincoln’s face.
On the other, two wheat stalks frame the words “One Cent,” symbolizing prosperity and growth.
This wheat design stayed in place until 1958, when it was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial. Even though it’s no longer made, the original Wheat Penny is a beloved piece of American history and a prized collectible for coin enthusiasts around the world.
Value
Not every Wheat Penny is valuable, but a few are worth jaw-dropping amounts. The most famous example? The 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny.
Here’s the story: in 1943, due to the needs of World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to steel to preserve copper for the war. But a few leftover copper blanks from 1942 were accidentally used to strike pennies.
This tiny minting mistake turned out to be a collector’s dream. Experts estimate only around 20 of these 1943 copper pennies exist. One even sold for $1.7 million a few years ago—and today, the price for one in perfect condition is estimated to hit $5,000,000.
Search
So how do you find one of these rare coins? It’s simpler than you’d think. Many people observe Wheat Pennies in jars of old change, inherited collections, or even random coins from daily transactions.
To check for a rare 1943 copper version:
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Check the year | Look for a 1943 date |
| Use a magnet | Steel pennies stick to magnets; copper ones don’t |
| Confirm value | If it doesn’t stick, get it examined by an expert |
Always verify the coin’s authenticity with a reputable coin grading service. Even if it’s not a copper 1943, it could still be a valuable Wheat Penny.
Others
While the 1943 copper penny gets the spotlight, it’s not the only valuable Wheat Cent out there. Two more to watch for:
- 1909-S VDB: This was the first year of production, and coins made at the San Francisco Mint had the designer’s initials, “VDB,” on the back. Few were made, making it a key collectible.
- 1914-D: Produced in Denver, it’s hard to find in good condition and can be worth thousands depending on the grade.
These older pennies might not hit the million-dollar mark, but they’re still worth way more than face value—and can be found in everyday collections.
Surprise
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than an old coin; it’s a piece of American history and possibly your ticket to a small fortune.
Whether it’s a super-rare 1943 copper penny or another valuable version like the 1909-S VDB, these coins prove that treasure doesn’t always look like gold bars or pirate loot. Sometimes, it jingles in your pocket or hides in an old jar.
Take a closer look at your coins—you might be holding five million dollars and not even know it.
FAQs
What is a Lincoln Wheat Penny?
A U.S. penny minted from 1909–1958 with wheat stalks on the back.
Why is the 1943 copper penny so rare?
It was mistakenly made with copper during WWII instead of steel.
How can I test a 1943 penny?
Use a magnet—steel sticks, copper doesn’t.
Which other Wheat Pennies are valuable?
The 1909-S VDB and 1914-D are also highly prized.
Can I still find rare pennies in circulation?
Yes, many are still out there in old jars or collections.
