The Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of the most iconic coins in U.S. history. While many of these pennies are still in circulation, a few rare editions have reached incredible values, with one particular 1943 Copper Lincoln Wheat Penny estimated to be worth $630,000. If you’re lucky, you might even find one in your pocket change.
What is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first introduced in 1909 and remained in circulation until 1958. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person, commemorating the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth.
- Obverse (Front): Features Lincoln’s portrait along with “IN GOD WE TRUST”, “LIBERTY”, and the year of minting.
- Reverse (Back): Displays two wheat stalks, symbolizing prosperity and growth, along with “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”.
The design changed in 1959, replacing the wheat stalks with an image of the Lincoln Memorial. However, some rare early editions remain highly valuable.
Why is This Penny Worth $630,000?
Most Lincoln Wheat Pennies are common and worth only a few cents. However, certain rare editions, like the 1943 Copper Penny, can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars due to unique characteristics.
What Makes the 1943 Copper Penny So Valuable?
- Wrong Metal Composition – In 1943, the U.S. Mint produced pennies using steel instead of copper due to wartime shortages. However, a few copper pennies were mistakenly struck and released into circulation.
- Extremely Rare – Experts believe that fewer than 20 of these copper pennies exist, making them one of the rarest U.S. coins.
- High Collector Demand – Because of their historical significance and rarity, collectors are willing to pay huge sums to own one.
- Condition Matters – A well-preserved 1943 Copper Penny with clear details and minimal wear can fetch even higher prices.
The most valuable 1943 Copper Lincoln Wheat Penny was sold at auction for $630,000, making it one of the most expensive pennies ever discovered.
How to Identify a 1943 Copper Penny
Think you might have a 1943 Copper Wheat Penny? Here’s how to check:
- Magnet Test –
- A real 1943 copper penny will not stick to a magnet.
- A common steel 1943 penny will stick because it contains iron.
- Check the Color –
- A genuine 1943 copper penny will have a reddish-brown color.
- A steel penny will be silver-gray in appearance.
- Inspect the Date and Mint Mark –
- The number “3” in 1943 should be clearly formed and not altered.
- Look for mint marks (S for San Francisco, D for Denver, or no mark for Philadelphia).
- Weigh the Coin –
- A 1943 Copper Penny should weigh 3.11 grams.
- A 1943 Steel Penny weighs 2.7 grams.
- Use a digital scale to confirm.
- Get a Professional Appraisal –
- If you suspect you have a 1943 Copper Penny, take it to a professional coin grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication.
Other Valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies
Even if you do not find the $630,000 penny, other rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies could still be worth a fortune:
- 1909-S VDB Penny – The first year of issue, with only 484,000 minted. Can be worth over $100,000.
- 1914-D Penny – A rare early edition, valued up to $150,000 in good condition.
- 1922 No D Penny – A minting error where the Denver Mint forgot the “D” mint mark, making it worth thousands.
- 1955 Double Die Penny – Features a double image, valued between $1,500 and $50,000.
Collectors actively seek out these coins, making them highly valuable in the numismatic world.
Can You Still Find One in Circulation?
Yes, it is possible. Since these rare coins were accidentally released, some could still be hidden in old coin jars, bank rolls, or everyday pocket change.
Many people do not realize the value of old coins and unknowingly spend them. That means a valuable penny could be sitting unnoticed in someone’s collection—or even in your pocket.
Final Thoughts: Keep Checking Your Pennies
The 1943 Copper Lincoln Wheat Penny, valued at $630,000, is a hidden treasure in the world of coin collecting. While most pennies are only worth face value, certain rare versions could bring life-changing amounts of money.
If you love collecting coins, check your spare change, old jars, and inherited collections. You never know—you might stumble upon a fortune without even realizing it.