Imagine grabbing a handful of coins and finding one worth millions. Sounds like something from a movie, right? But it’s very real—and one tiny coin, the Lincoln Wheat Penny, could be the hidden treasure sitting in your spare change.
One rare version of this humble penny has sold for a jaw-dropping $8.4 million, and the wildest part? It might still be in circulation today.
Let’s uncover the story behind this life-changing penny and how you can spot one.
Origins
The Lincoln Wheat Penny debuted in 1909, created to mark the 100th birthday of Abraham Lincoln. It features Lincoln’s profile on the front and two wheat stalks on the back—hence the name.
This design ran until 1958, and millions were produced. Most are worth a cent or a little more to collectors. But a few rare versions? They’re worth a fortune due to unusual errors or special materials.
Legend
Now here’s the coin everyone’s talking about—the 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny. During World War II, copper was reserved for the war effort. That year, pennies were made from steel coated with zinc.
But due to a minting mistake, a few leftover bronze blanks from 1942 were used, resulting in a tiny number of 1943 Bronze Pennies. These coins are so rare that one in top condition has been valued at $8.4 million.
That’s more than many luxury homes—and it could still be out there.
Circulation
Yes, believe it or not, some 1943 bronze pennies are still out there, potentially passed around by people who don’t know what they have.
It could be sitting in an old piggy bank, a jar of coins, or a coin collection you inherited from your grandparents. That’s why coin collectors and even average folks are checking their change more carefully than ever.
Valuables
And it’s not just the Lincoln Wheat Penny that’s fetching sky-high prices. Here are some of the most expensive coins auctioned in 2024:
| 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 |
| 3 | 1850 Baldwin & Co. $10 | PCGS MS63+ | $1,260,000 | Stack’s Bowers |
| 5 | 1860 $5 Large Planchet Half Eagle | PCGS PR64+DCAM | $1,140,000 | Heritage |
| 10 | 1879 Four-Dollar Gold Stella, Flowing Hair | PCGS PR67DCAM | $840,000 | Stack’s Bowers |
| 21 | 1975 Roosevelt Dime No S | PCGS PR67 | $506,250 | GreatCollections |
These examples show just how valuable certain coins can become—and how important it is to keep an eye out.
Checklist
Think you might have a rare 1943 penny? Here’s how to tell:
- Check the Date: It must say 1943.
- Check the Color: Steel pennies look silver. Bronze ones look coppery.
- Try a Magnet: Steel sticks to a magnet. Bronze does not.
- Still Unsure? Have it checked by a coin dealer or send it to PCGS for grading.
Even if you don’t find the $8.4 million version, other Lincoln Wheat Pennies can also be worth hundreds or even thousands depending on the year, mint mark, and condition.
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just a piece of metal—it’s a symbol of hidden value and surprise. Whether it’s in a dusty jar or mixed in your grocery store change, this coin might just be your golden ticket. So start looking—you never know when your fortune will flip over in your palm.
FAQs
What makes the 1943 penny special?
It’s made of bronze, a rare error during wartime steel minting.
How much is the 1943 bronze penny worth?
One was valued at a staggering $8.4 million!
How do I check if I have one?
Use a magnet—steel sticks, bronze does not.
Where could I find this penny?
Check old jars, change, or inherited coin collections.
Are other Wheat Pennies valuable?
Yes, some are worth hundreds or even thousands.
