The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a famous piece of American history and one of the most interesting coins ever made. First introduced in 1909, it was the first U.S. coin to show the face of a real person—President Abraham Lincoln. But beyond its design, this coin is also known for a rare mistake made during World War II that created one of the most valuable pennies ever—worth an astonishing $120 million. This article will explain the history of the Lincoln Wheat Penny, how the rare 1943 copper version came to be, and why it’s so valuable today.
The History of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
Before 1909, U.S. pennies only featured the image of Liberty. The Lincoln Wheat Penny changed that by showing the face of Abraham Lincoln to honor his 100th birthday. The coin was designed by Victor David Brenner and showed Lincoln’s profile on the front and two ears of wheat on the back. This design stayed popular for many decades and became a symbol for generations of Americans.
The Wartime Mistake That Made History
In 1943, during World War II, copper was needed for making weapons and other military equipment. Because of this, the U.S. Mint decided to make pennies out of steel coated with zinc instead of copper to save the copper for the war effort. However, at the Denver Mint, a few copper blanks were accidentally left in the machine and stamped with the 1943 steel penny design. These few copper pennies from 1943 are now some of the rarest and most valuable coins in the world.
Why Is the 1943 Copper Penny Worth $120 Million?
The 1943 copper penny’s high value comes from several factors. First, it is extremely rare—only one or two are believed to exist. Second, the coin is in perfect condition because it was never used as regular money. Third, it has a strong historical connection to World War II. This combination of rarity, condition, and history has made the penny a prized treasure for serious collectors and investors.
How to Identify a Real 1943 Copper Penny
If you think you might have a rare 1943 copper penny, here are some ways to check:
- Look for a “D” mintmark, which shows it was made in Denver.
- Check the metal: steel pennies stick to magnets, but copper pennies do not.
- Make sure the date has not been altered, as some fake pennies have changed dates.
- Always have the coin verified by a professional expert to be sure it is genuine.
Can You Still Find Valuable Coins Like This?
While finding the $120 million penny is nearly impossible, other rare coins might still be hiding in old collections or even in everyday change. Many people spend valuable coins without realizing their worth. The chance of finding such a treasure is what makes coin collecting exciting for many people.
How to Care for Valuable Coins
If you find a rare or old coin, it’s important to protect its value:
- Never clean the coin because cleaning can damage its surface and lower its value.
- Hold the coin by the edges to avoid fingerprints.
- Store coins in special plastic holders to protect them from dust and moisture.
- Get coins appraised and authenticated only by certified experts.
The Impact of Rare Coins on Collecting
Rare coins like the 1943 copper penny have made coin collecting more popular and exciting. What used to be a hobby mainly for older adults has grown into a serious field connected to history and investment. Stories like this show that even everyday objects can hold incredible value if you know what to look for.
Conclusion
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just a coin; it is a piece of American history, art, and a surprising wartime mistake. Its story teaches us that hidden treasures might be right under our noses, sometimes in our own pockets. Whether you are a professional coin collector or just cleaning out an old piggy bank, it’s worth checking old pennies carefully—you might just find a valuable piece of history.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny worth $120 million?
It is extremely rare, made of copper by mistake during a year of steel pennies, in perfect condition, and very important historically.
How can I tell if I have a real 1943 copper penny?
Look for the “D” mintmark, confirm it’s copper (not steel), and have it checked by a professional.
Why did the U.S. Mint make steel pennies in 1943?
Copper was needed for the war, so pennies were made from steel to save copper for military use.
Can I find valuable pennies in my pocket change?
It’s rare, but some valuable coins still appear in old collections or pocket change.
