Most people carry coins every day without paying much attention to them. But imagine if one of those ordinary pennies could actually be worth millions. It may sound unbelievable, but it’s true—a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny has been valued at an incredible $18.9 million, and there’s a chance it’s still out there waiting to be found.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
First introduced in 1909, the Lincoln Wheat Penny was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person—President Abraham Lincoln. The reverse side displays two stalks of wheat, which gave the coin its popular name.
These pennies were minted until 1958, and while most are common, a few rare versions have become incredibly valuable due to errors or unique materials used during production.
The $18.9 Million Penny
One of the most famous of these rare pennies is the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny made from bronze. During World War II, the U.S. Mint used steel for pennies to save copper for military use.
However, a small number of bronze blanks accidentally remained in the machines and were used to strike 1943-dated coins. These few bronze coins are now some of the most sought-after in the world.
One such bronze 1943 penny was sold at auction for a mind-blowing $18.9 million, making it one of the most expensive coins ever recorded.
Still Circulating Today?
The most thrilling part is that some of these rare bronze pennies might still be in circulation. They could be hidden in a jar of coins, tucked away in an attic, or mixed in with everyday change. Because the difference is subtle, they’re often overlooked by people who don’t know what to look for.
What to Look For
To identify if you have one of these rare coins, first check the date. It should be 1943. Next, try the magnet test. A regular 1943 penny made of steel will stick to a magnet. If your coin doesn’t stick, it might be bronze—a rare and valuable mistake. If you find one, it’s best to have it authenticated by a coin expert.
Other Valuable Wheat Pennies
Even if your 1943 penny turns out to be steel, don’t be discouraged. Other Wheat Pennies with unusual features, low mintage numbers, or minting errors can also be valuable, sometimes fetching hundreds or thousands of dollars.
You Could Be Holding a Fortune
Imagine finding a coin that looks completely ordinary but turns out to be worth nearly $19 million. The 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of those rare discoveries that may still be hidden in everyday places.
So next time you get change at a store or clean out an old drawer, take a closer look. Your life-changing penny could be right there.
Don’t Overlook Your Change
Checking your spare coins might be far more rewarding than you expect. Who knew such a small coin could hold so much value? Keep your eyes open—your lucky penny might be waiting just around the corner.
FAQs
Why is the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny so expensive?
It’s a rare error coin made from bronze during a year when most pennies were made of steel due to wartime copper needs.
How can I test if my 1943 penny is bronze?
Use a magnet—steel sticks, but bronze doesn’t. If your penny doesn’t stick and it’s from 1943, it could be valuable.
Is it true that these rare pennies are still around?
Yes, some may still be found in old coin jars, loose change, or collections, unnoticed by their owners.
Are other Wheat Pennies worth anything?
Yes, while most are common, some with rare dates or minting errors can be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars.