Imagine finding a penny in your pocket that is worth millions of dollars! While most pennies are only worth one cent, some rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies can be valued at thousands or even millions of dollars. Among these, the 1943 copper penny is one of the most valuable, with some experts estimating its worth at $80 million.
The History of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first introduced in 1909 to celebrate Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person instead of a symbolic figure. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the coin has Lincoln’s portrait on the front and two wheat stalks on the back. The Wheat Penny design remained in circulation until 1958, when it was replaced with the Lincoln Memorial design.
Why the 1943 Copper Penny is So Special
During World War II, copper was needed for making war supplies, so the U.S. Mint decided to make pennies from zinc-coated steel instead. However, by mistake, some copper blanks from 1942 were left in the minting machines, leading to the creation of a few 1943 copper pennies. These rare pennies were accidentally released into circulation, making them one of the most sought-after coins by collectors. Only 10 to 15 genuine 1943 copper pennies are known to exist today.
How to Identify a 1943 Copper Penny
If you think you have a 1943 copper penny, here’s how to check:
- Color: It should be brownish-red like a regular copper penny, not silver-colored like steel.
- Magnet Test: A real copper penny will not stick to a magnet, while steel pennies will.
- Weight: A genuine copper penny weighs 3.11 grams, while a steel one weighs 2.7 grams.
Other Valuable Wheat Pennies
Aside from the 1943 copper penny, other valuable Wheat Pennies include:
- 1909-S VDB – The first year of issue with the designer’s initials, worth up to $20,000.
- 1914-D – A rare penny that can be worth over $10,000.
- 1922 Plain – A rare error penny worth up to $20,000.
Final Thoughts
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is not just an old coin; it is a piece of American history. If you ever come across a 1943 copper penny, it could be worth a fortune. So, next time you check your pocket change, take a closer look—you might just find a hidden treasure!
Disclaimer: The prices mentioned for rare coins, including the Lincoln Wheat Penny, are not guaranteed and may not be entirely accurate due to market fluctuations and varying appraisals.