It sounds like something out of a movie, but it’s true—a tiny, old penny might be worth up to $110 million. The Lincoln Wheat Penny, introduced in 1909, is one of America’s most iconic coins. And among them, one exceptionally rare version has become the stuff of numismatic legend, with experts speculating it could reach a jaw-dropping value.
And the most amazing part? It could still be out there, tucked away in a coin jar, a dusty drawer, or even in your loose change.
Why Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny So Valuable?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person—President Abraham Lincoln. It was produced from 1909 to 1958, with the reverse side displaying two wheat stalks, earning it the nickname “Wheat Penny.”
Most Wheat Pennies are worth just a cent, but a select few have become treasures due to minting errors, rare materials, or limited production runs. These coins are now sought after by collectors and investors worldwide.
The Legendary $110 Million Penny
The most famous of these is the 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny. During World War II, the U.S. Mint shifted penny production from copper to steel to save the metal for the war effort. But somehow, a handful of bronze planchets (coin blanks) were still used by mistake.
Only a few 1943 bronze pennies are known to exist, and they are considered among the rarest coins in American history. While no public sale has confirmed the $110 million figure, experts believe the right buyer could easily drive the value that high due to the coin’s rarity, story, and desirability.
How to Check If You Have One
You don’t have to be a seasoned coin collector to find a rare Wheat Penny. Here’s how to spot one:
- Check the year: Look for 1943 (non-magnetic), 1909-S VDB, and 1914-D.
- Use a magnet: Most 1943 pennies are steel and magnetic. If yours isn’t, it might be the ultra-rare bronze version.
- Look at the mint mark: “S” (San Francisco) and “D” (Denver) mint marks can increase value.
- Inspect condition: A coin in good condition is always worth more.
Is It Really Possible to Find One Today?
Yes, it is. Many rare coins have remained in circulation or sat forgotten in family collections for years. There are real stories of people discovering valuable coins in jars, old wallets, and inherited collections. The $110 million penny might be hiding in plain sight, waiting for someone to notice it.
What to Do If You Find a Rare Penny
If you stumble upon a suspicious or rare-looking Lincoln Wheat Penny—especially a 1943 penny that doesn’t stick to a magnet—do not spend it! Instead:
- Take it to a certified coin dealer.
- Have it evaluated by a professional grading service.
- Store it carefully until its authenticity and value are confirmed.
Even if it isn’t the elusive $110 million piece, it could still be worth thousands—or tens of thousands—of dollars.
Final Thought
The story of the Lincoln Wheat Penny is a powerful reminder that sometimes, great fortune can come in the smallest form. So before you dismiss that handful of coins lying around your house, take a closer look. You just might be holding a piece of history worth millions.
