What if a small fortune was hiding in your pocket change? The Lincoln Wheat Penny—a coin millions of Americans overlook—could be worth up to $120,000. Incredibly, a few of these rare pennies are still out there, waiting to be found.
Let’s uncover why this coin is so valuable, how to spot one, and what to do if you think you’ve struck gold with copper.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was minted from 1909 to 1958 and features two wheat stalks on the reverse side. While most are worth just a few cents, certain rare dates and error coins can be worth thousands—or even six figures.
The most famous of them all is the 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny, a rarity that has sold for over $120,000 at auction.
Why the 1943 Copper Penny Exists
During World War II, copper was needed for ammunition and military equipment. The U.S. Mint switched to steel-coated zinc pennies in 1943. However, a few copper blanks (planchets) accidentally slipped through and were struck into pennies.
These “mistake” coins are now among the most valuable U.S. coins ever produced, with fewer than 40 confirmed to exist.
Key Wheat Penny Varieties Worth Collecting
Here are some of the most sought-after Lincoln Wheat Pennies and their approximate values:
| Year/Type | Estimated Value Range | Rarity Level |
|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | $700 – $2,500 | Rare |
| 1914-D | $200 – $2,000 | Rare |
| 1922 No D | $500 – $3,000 | Very Rare |
| 1943 Copper | $100,000 – $120,000+ | Extremely Rare |
| 1955 Double Die | $1,000 – $15,000 | Rare/Popular |
How to Tell If You Have a 1943 Copper Penny
Think you’ve found one? Here are quick tests you can try:
- Check the Date: Must read 1943.
- Magnet Test: Steel pennies stick to a magnet. Copper ones don’t.
- Weight Test: Copper weighs 3.11 g. Steel pennies weigh only 2.7 g.
- Color: Copper shows a reddish-brown tone, while steel looks gray or silver.
Surprising Facts About Wheat Pennies
- Nearly 24 billion Wheat Pennies were minted, but only a few rare varieties are worth big money.
- One 1943 copper penny sold for over $200,000 at Heritage Auctions.
- Some lucky collectors have found rare pennies in everyday change.
Tips for Coin Collectors
- Don’t Clean Your Coins – Cleaning reduces value dramatically.
- Get Professional Grading – Services like PCGS or NGC can authenticate your coin.
- Search Old Collections – Estate sales, coin rolls, and antique jars sometimes hide treasures.
FAQs
Q: Can I still find a Wheat Penny in circulation?
A: Yes, though most are common. Rare ones like the 1943 copper are extremely scarce.
Q: Why is the 1943 penny so valuable?
A: It’s a minting error—copper pennies weren’t supposed to exist that year.
Q: How much is a regular Wheat Penny worth?
A: Most are worth 3–10 cents, but rare dates and errors can reach thousands.
Q: What should I do if I find a 1943 copper penny?
A: Don’t sell it right away—get it professionally graded and appraised.
Q: Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
A: No. Most are steel cents worth only a few cents. Only the rare copper version is valuable.
Final Thoughts
The Lincoln Wheat Penny worth $120,000 proves that history and treasure can hide in the smallest places—even in your spare change. Next time you sort through coins, take a closer look—you might be holding a piece of American history that could change your future.