What if the next time you check your wallet, you observe a coin worth over a million dollars? That might sound unbelievable, but it could actually happen. A rare version of the Lincoln Wheat Penny has recently been valued at an eye-popping $1,111,111. And the biggest shock? It could still be in everyday circulation.
Yes, this small copper coin, originally worth just one cent, may now be worth more than a luxury car or even a small house — and it might be hiding in your piggy bank, drawer, or loose change right now.
Origins
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first introduced in 1909 to honour Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. It features Lincoln’s portrait on the front and two wheat stalks on the back — which is why it’s called the Wheat Penny. This design remained until 1958 before it was replaced with the Lincoln Memorial.
Though millions were minted, a few versions with unusual minting errors or rare materials now sell for huge sums.
Top Coins
Here’s a list of some of the highest-priced coins sold in 2024. It shows how seriously collectors take rare coins:
Rank | Coin Description | Grade | Price (USD) | Auction House |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Undated (1652) NE Threepence | PCGS XF45 | $2,520,000 | Stack’s Bowers |
2 | 1870-CC Liberty Head Double Eagle | PCGS AU55 | $1,440,000 | Stack’s Bowers |
T-3 | 1850 Baldwin & Co. $10 | PCGS MS63+ | $1,260,000 | Stack’s Bowers |
T-3 | 1855 $50 Kellogg & Co. | PCGS PR64CAM | $1,260,000 | Heritage |
6 | 1825/4/1 Capped Head Left Half Eagle | PCGS PR62 | $1,080,000 | Stack’s Bowers |
20 | 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel | PCGS MS65+ | $511,875 | GreatCollections |
23 | 1893-S $1 | PCGS MS63 | $444,000 | Heritage |
30 | 1871-CC Liberty Gold Double Eagle | PCGS MS61 | $395,438 | GreatCollections |
These sales show that rare coins are more than just metal — they’re valuable pieces of history.
Million
The penny getting all the attention is a 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny. During World War II, copper was needed for ammunition, so the U.S. Mint began using steel to make pennies.
However, a few copper blanks accidentally made it through the machines, creating a very limited number of 1943 copper pennies.
Today, one of these copper coins has been valued at $1,111,111. That’s because of its rarity, the mistake involved in its creation, and the strong demand from collectors.
Circulation
Believe it or not, experts say these rare pennies might still be out there. Many people don’t know what to look for, so these coins could be hiding in jars, drawers, or change piles. That’s why collectors and curious individuals are now checking every penny they come across.
One lucky discovery could be life-changing.
Spotting
Here’s how to check if your 1943 penny is worth a fortune:
- Look at the year – It must say 1943.
- Check the colour – Most are silver (steel); the rare one is copper or bronze.
- Try a magnet – Steel sticks to a magnet. Copper won’t.
If your coin matches all three, don’t clean it or scratch it. Take it to a coin grading expert for evaluation.
Buzz
The story behind the 1943 copper penny adds to its value. It was never supposed to exist — a few slipped through as accidents. But now, these mistakes have become collector gold.
The recent $1.1 million price tag has made this coin one of the most talked-about treasures in the hobby world.
Even those who’ve never collected before are now checking their change. Coin shops are seeing more walk-ins, and online groups are flooded with photos of old pennies people hope might be the one.
It’s a modern-day treasure hunt — and anyone could be the winner.
Finding a Lincoln Wheat Penny worth $1,111,111 sounds like a dream, but it could very well be a reality. These rare coins may still be floating around, just waiting to be observed by someone lucky enough to look closely.
So next time you get change at the grocery store or open an old coin box at home, pay attention to those small copper coins. That one little penny might just make you a millionaire.
FAQs
What makes the 1943 penny so rare?
It was mistakenly made of copper during a steel-only minting year.
How can I test if my 1943 penny is copper?
Use a magnet. Copper pennies won’t stick to it.
Are these pennies still in circulation?
Yes, a few may still be mixed in everyday change.
How much is a 1943 copper penny worth?
One was recently valued at $1,111,111.
Where can I get my coin checked?
Visit a certified coin dealer or a grading service.