The Lincoln Wheat Penny That Could Be Worth $37 Million
Can a penny really make you a millionaire? Surprisingly, yes! Some old Lincoln Wheat Pennies—coins that originally cost just one cent—have become incredibly valuable. In fact, one rare version is believed to be worth up to $37 million. Even more exciting? Experts think a few of these rare coins could still be in circulation. That means it’s possible you could find one in your spare change or an old jar at home!
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a special coin in American history. It was first made in 1909 to honor President Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday. It was also the first U.S. coin to show a real person’s face instead of the traditional Lady Liberty. The coin features Lincoln on the front and two wheat stalks on the back—hence the name “Wheat Penny.” These coins were made until 1958, after which the design changed to show the Lincoln Memorial.
Why the 1943 Copper Penny Is So Rare
The most valuable Lincoln Wheat Penny is the 1943 copper version. During World War II, the U.S. Mint used steel coated with zinc instead of copper to save the metal for the war. But a few copper blanks from 1942 were accidentally used in 1943. These mistake coins—fewer than 20 are known to exist—are extremely rare and valuable because they were never supposed to be made.
How to Spot a Rare Penny
If you want to check if your penny is worth big money, here’s what to look for:
- Date: It must say 1943.
- Color: A real 1943 copper penny looks reddish-brown. Steel ones look silver or gray.
- Magnet Test: Steel pennies stick to magnets. Copper ones don’t.
- Weight: Copper pennies weigh about 3.11 grams, heavier than the steel ones.
Other valuable Wheat Pennies include the 1909-S VDB, the 1914-D, and the 1955 Double Die, which has a doubled image from a minting mistake.
How These Pennies Got Into Circulation
The rare 1943 copper pennies were a mistake. When the Mint switched from copper to steel, a few leftover copper blanks accidentally went through the machines. These coins were mixed in with regular pennies and ended up being used in everyday transactions. Some people have found them in pocket change or passed-down coin jars. One famous case? A high school student found one in his lunch money back in 1947!
How Much Are These Pennies Really Worth?
Although no Lincoln Wheat Penny has officially sold for $37 million, some have fetched impressive prices. One 1943 copper penny sold for over $1.7 million at auction. Experts say that if a coin is in perfect condition, it could sell for even more in the future. With growing interest from collectors and investors, prices keep climbing.
Mistakes People Make When Searching
A lot of people find a 1943 penny and get excited—but most of those are steel and worth only a few dollars. Always do the magnet test to be sure. Also, not all old pennies are valuable. It’s not just about age; it’s about rare features like mint marks or printing mistakes. Be careful of fake coins too. Some people coat steel pennies in copper to trick buyers. And don’t clean your coin—it can lower its value!
Where to Look for These Pennies Today
Believe it or not, these rare pennies might still be out there. Many are hidden in old jars, boxes, or collections passed down through families. Some people even find them in their change. Since these coins were mixed in with regular ones back in the day, there’s always a chance one is still floating around, unnoticed.
Get Your Coin Checked by a Professional
If you think you’ve found a valuable Lincoln Wheat Penny, don’t guess—get it authenticated. Trusted coin grading companies like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) can tell if it’s real and how much it might be worth. They’ll check the coin’s metal, weight, and details using expert tools. While there’s a fee, it’s worth it if the coin is rare. Having it professionally certified can also increase its selling price.
Why Coin Collecting Is Still Popular
The story of the Lincoln Wheat Penny shows why coin collecting is so exciting. It’s not just about money—it’s about discovering a piece of history. Every coin tells a story about its time, and collectors enjoy the thrill of the hunt. Even if you never find a million-dollar penny, collecting coins can be fun, educational, and rewarding.
Keep an Eye on Your Spare Change
So next time you get coins back from the store or dig through an old jar, take a closer look. You never know—you might be holding a small piece of history worth millions. While finding a $37 million penny is rare, the idea that it could happen keeps the dream alive.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational use only. While the Lincoln Wheat Penny is real and some rare versions are worth a lot, the $37 million value is an estimate based on collector interest, not a confirmed sale. Coin prices can change based on demand and condition. If you believe you’ve found a rare coin, have it evaluated by a professional. Treat coin collecting as a fun and educational hobby—not a guaranteed way to get rich.
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