Many people carry coins in their pockets without even noticing what’s really there. But what if one of those coins could make you a millionaire? Sounds like a movie story, right?
Well, this is exactly what’s happening with a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny that has been valued at an unbelievable $18.9 million—and it’s still possibly out there in circulation.
This story has caught the attention of collectors, treasure hunters, and everyday people alike. So, let’s look into why this one penny is worth so much and how you might be lucky enough to find it.
History
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first made in 1909. It was the first U.S. coin to have a real person’s face on it—President Abraham Lincoln. The coin has two stalks of wheat on the back, which is why it’s called a “Wheat Penny.”
These pennies were made until 1958, and millions were produced. But a few of them, especially from certain years, were printed with small mistakes or rare designs. That’s what makes them worth a fortune today.
Jackpot
Among all the Wheat Pennies ever made, one stands out from the rest. This penny, believed to be from the year 1943, is made from bronze instead of the usual steel that was used during World War II.
During the war, was needed for war materials, so the U.S. Mint switched to steel for pennies in 1943.
But a few bronze blanks were accidentally left in the machines, and they got stamped with the 1943 date. Only a handful of these rare coins exist—and they are incredibly valuable.
One of these bronze 1943 Lincoln Wheat Pennies was sold at auction for a shocking $18.9 million. It is now considered one of the most expensive coins in the world.
Circulation
Yes, you read that right. It’s believed that some of these rare Wheat Pennies are still out there—either forgotten in old jars, dropped on the street, or even hiding in your spare change.
Since many people don’t know what they’re looking for, these coins can go unnoticed for years.
This is why coin collectors and even ordinary people are now checking their change closely. Just one lucky find could completely change your life.
Identify
To find out if your penny is valuable, first check the year on it. If it’s from 1943 and looks like it’s made of copper or bronze (and not steel), it might be the rare kind.
You can also do a magnet test. A steel penny will stick to a magnet, but a bronze one will not. If your 1943 penny doesn’t stick to a magnet, it might be worth getting checked by a coin expert.
Even if it’s not worth millions, some Wheat Pennies from other years can still sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Imagine finding a coin that looks like any other penny, but it’s worth almost $19 million. The Lincoln Wheat Penny from 1943 is one such rare treasure that may still be hiding in everyday places.
So the next time you find some change under the couch or get a penny back at the store, don’t ignore it. That tiny coin might just be your ticket to a fortune.
Checking your change could turn out to be more rewarding than you ever imagined. Who knew that a simple penny could be worth millions? Keep your eyes open—your lucky day might be just one coin away.
FAQs
Which penny is worth $18.9 million?
The 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny.
Why were steel pennies made in 1943?
To save copper for World War II supplies.
How to tell if my penny is bronze?
Use a magnet—bronze won’t stick, steel will.
Is the rare penny still in circulation?
Yes, it may still be out there today.
Where to check a rare penny’s value?
Visit a coin expert or professional appraiser.
