incoln Wheat Penny
A tiny penny could make you a millionaire—or even a billionaire. The Lincoln Wheat Penny, a coin minted from 1909 to 1958, has collectors buzzing because one ultra-rare version might be worth $120 million. While most of these pennies are worth just a cent, a specific error coin from this series has been called the “holy grail” of coin collecting. The best part? It could still be out there, sitting in a coin jar, a cash register, or even your pocket change.
The Penny That’s Worth a Fortune
The $120 million Lincoln Wheat Penny is a 1943 copper penny, a mistake from the U.S. Mint. During World War II, pennies were made from steel to save copper for the war effort, but a few 1943 pennies were accidentally struck in copper. Only about 20 are known to exist, making them incredibly rare. One sold for $1.7 million in 2010, and experts say a pristine example could now fetch up to $120 million due to its rarity and collector demand.
Why It’s So Special
This penny’s value comes from its scarcity and historical quirk. The copper 1943 penny wasn’t supposed to happen—almost all pennies that year were steel, coated in zinc to look shiny. The few copper ones slipped through by mistake, likely when copper blanks from 1942 got mixed into the minting process. Collectors love these coins for their story and rarity. If you find one in great condition, with clear details and no wear, it could be a life-changing discovery.
| Feature | Regular 1943 Penny | Rare 1943 Copper Penny |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel (Zinc-Coated) | Copper |
| Year | 1943 | 1943 |
| Mint Mark | None, D, or S | None, D, or S |
| Estimated Value | 10 cents – $1 | Up to $120 Million |
Could It Be in Circulation?
Believe it or not, some of these pennies might still be floating around. Millions of Lincoln Wheat Pennies were minted, and many are still in circulation or tucked away in jars. The 1943 copper penny has turned up in unexpected places before—like a kid’s piggy bank in 1947 and a vending machine in the 1980s. Coin experts say it’s possible one is still out there, passed around by people who don’t know its value. The trick is knowing what to look for.
How to Spot the Treasure
- Check for a 1943 penny that looks copper, not silver or steel.
- Use a magnet—if it doesn’t stick, it’s not steel and could be copper.
- Look for sharp details, especially in Lincoln’s face and the wheat stalks on the back.
- Check the mint mark (a small “D” or “S” under the date) for added value.
If you think you’ve found one, don’t clean it—cleaning can ruin its worth. Take it to a coin dealer or send it to the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) for verification.
Join the Hunt
The story of the $120 million penny has sparked a treasure hunt across the U.S. People are digging through change, checking old collections, and even asking relatives to empty their coin jars. Even if you don’t find the copper 1943 penny, other Wheat Pennies, like those from 1909 or with errors, can be worth hundreds or thousands. So, next time you get change at the store, take a closer look. That penny in your hand might just be a ticket to millions.