You might want to dig through those pennies rattling around in your drawer—because one of them could be a hidden treasure. Among the countless Lincoln Wheat Pennies minted over the years, there’s a single rare version that’s practically legendary. Collectors estimate it could be worth up to $200 million, and the wild part? It might still be sitting unnoticed in everyday change.
Let’s explore the fascinating story behind this extraordinary coin, what makes it so valuable, and how you can spot one yourself.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny holds a special place in American coin history. First released in 1909, it was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person—Abraham Lincoln—on its face. The back design shows two stalks of wheat, which is how it got its nickname.
These pennies were produced until 1958. While millions were made, only a few rare versions, especially those with unusual errors or materials, have become valuable collectibles.
Why Is One Wheat Penny Worth $200 Million?
Among all these coins, one version has captured the imagination of collectors worldwide: the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny made from bronze instead of the usual steel.
Here’s the story:
During World War II, copper was in short supply, so the U.S. Mint switched to making pennies from zinc-coated steel in 1943.
But a handful of bronze blanks (the metal discs used for pennies) from 1942 were mistakenly used to strike pennies in 1943.
Only a few of these rare bronze 1943 pennies are known to exist today.
Because of their extreme rarity and fascinating backstory, collectors have placed astronomical values on them—some experts believe a pristine 1943 bronze penny could fetch as much as $200 million, especially if it’s the only known specimen or connected to a significant discovery.
How to Spot a $200 Million Lincoln Penny
You don’t need fancy equipment to identify this rare penny, just a keen eye and a bit of luck. Here’s what to watch for:
- Check the Date: Look for “1943.” Most 1943 pennies are steel and have a shiny silver-gray look. If yours is copper-colored or brown, keep inspecting.
- Magnet Test: Steel pennies stick to magnets; bronze pennies don’t. If your penny doesn’t cling to a magnet, it might be worth a lot.
- Color Check: Steel pennies shine silver. Bronze pennies have the warm, reddish tone typical of copper coins.
- Mint Mark: Look below the date for a small letter indicating the mint:
- “D” = Denver
- “S” = San Francisco
- No letter = Philadelphia
Bronze pennies with a mint mark are even rarer than those without.
Could One Still Be in Circulation?
Absolutely. That’s part of the thrill.
These rare pennies have turned up in pocket change, old jars, and family collections—sometimes by accident. Since they look like ordinary pennies to most people, the 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny could still be out there, hidden in plain sight.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Found One
If you come across a 1943 penny that looks like it’s copper instead of steel:
- Don’t clean it! Cleaning can drastically reduce its value.
- Test it with a magnet.
- Take it to a professional coin dealer or grading service (like PCGS or NGC) for verification.
- Get an official appraisal—it could change your life.
Final Thoughts: A Tiny Coin, a Huge Surprise
That humble penny in your pocket could be worth more than you ever imagined. The 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny is a reminder that some of the most valuable treasures are hiding in the smallest places.
So next time you receive pennies as change, take a closer look—you might just have a fortune in your hands.
