Have you ever ignored a penny on the sidewalk, thinking it’s not worth picking up? What if that penny could be worth nearly $880,000? Believe it or not, some Lincoln Wheat Pennies are incredibly rare and valuable. In this guide, we’ll dive into the history of these coins, explain why some are worth a fortune, and show you how to spot one in your spare change.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a special coin first made in 1909 to celebrate the 100th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln. Unlike older coins with images like Liberty or eagles, this was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person—Lincoln himself. Designed by Victor D. Brenner, the front of the coin shows Lincoln’s face, and the back has two wheat stalks, which is why it’s called the “Wheat Penny.”
These pennies were made from 1909 to 1958, when the back design changed to the Lincoln Memorial. Billions of these coins were produced, but a few rare ones are worth a lot to collectors.
Why Are Some Lincoln Wheat Pennies So Valuable?
Certain Lincoln Wheat Pennies are worth a lot because of mistakes made during their production. The most famous is the 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny.
During World War II, in 1943, the U.S. Mint stopped using copper for pennies because it was needed for the war. Instead, they used zinc-coated steel. But a few copper pennies were accidentally made that year. These rare “error coins” are now some of the most valuable in the world. Only a handful exist, and one in great condition sold for as much as $880,000 at auction.
Quick Facts About the Lincoln Wheat Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | Lincoln Wheat Penny |
| First Made | 1909 |
| Rare Year | 1943 (Copper Error) |
| Usual Material in 1943 | Zinc-coated Steel |
| Rare Material | Copper |
| Top Value | Up to $880,000 |
| Still Out There? | Yes, but very rare |
| How to Spot It | Wheat stalks on back; copper color for 1943 |
Could a $880,000 Penny Still Be Out There?
Yes, it’s possible! Many people don’t know how valuable some pennies are and might spend them without checking. These rare coins could be hiding in old piggy banks, coin jars, or even your pocket change. People have found valuable coins in everyday change, especially when looking through old family collections.
Where to Look for Rare Pennies
- Old coin collections: Check jars or boxes of coins at home.
- Family heirlooms: Look through coins passed down from relatives.
- Change from stores: Examine pennies you get from cash purchases.
How to Spot a Valuable Lincoln Wheat Penny
Want to know if you’ve got a rare penny? Follow these simple steps:
1. Check the Year
Look for a penny from 1943. Most 1943 pennies are silver-colored because they’re made of steel. If you find one that’s copper-colored (reddish-brown), it could be the rare one.
2. Try the Magnet Test
Use a magnet to test your penny. Steel pennies will stick to the magnet, but copper ones won’t. If your 1943 penny doesn’t stick, you might have a valuable coin.
3. Look at the Condition
The better the penny looks, the more it’s worth. A worn-out 1943 copper penny could still be worth thousands, but one in perfect condition could be worth $880,000.
4. Don’t Clean the Coin
Never polish or scrub a penny. Cleaning can lower its value because collectors want coins in their original state.
5. Get It Checked by Experts
If you think you’ve found a rare penny, take it to a coin dealer or send it to a grading service like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation). They can confirm if it’s real.
Why the Lincoln Wheat Penny Is So Special
The Lincoln Wheat Penny isn’t just about money—it’s a piece of American history. It was made during a time when coins were carefully designed to reflect the country’s values. For many collectors, these pennies spark memories of childhood or family traditions, making them even more meaningful.
The idea that a penny worth just one cent could be worth nearly a million dollars is what makes coin collecting exciting. It’s a mix of history, rarity, and the thrill of finding treasure.
Conclusion: Start Checking Your Pennies Today
Next time you see a penny, don’t just walk by—it could be a rare 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny worth up to $880,000. Whether you’re new to coin collecting or a pro, checking your spare change could lead to a life-changing discovery. Grab that old coin jar, look through your pennies, and keep an eye out for that copper-colored treasure. You never know—you might just find a fortune!