But few come close to the jaw-dropping story of the Lincoln Wheat Penny. Most folks wouldn’t think twice about a penny, but one rare version of this unassuming coin could be worth up to $3,172,500 — and the craziest part? It might still be hiding in your change jar.
Let’s break down what makes this coin so valuable — and how you might just get lucky enough to find one.
History
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first minted in 1909, and it was a pretty big moment. Not only did it mark President Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, but it also became the first U.S. coin to feature a real person. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it showed Lincoln’s profile on the front and two wheat stalks on the back — giving it the nickname “Wheat Penny.”
The design stuck around until 1958, when it was swapped out for the Lincoln Memorial. Even decades later, collectors are still chasing down Wheat Pennies — especially the ultra-rare ones.
Rarity
Now, why would anyone pay over $3 million for a penny?
It all boils down to a rare minting mistake. In 1943, with copper needed for WWII, the Mint switched penny production to zinc-coated steel. But a few leftover copper blanks from 1942 made it into the press — and just like that, a handful of 1943 copper Wheat Pennies came to life.
They’re incredibly scarce. Only around 20 are known to exist. One sold privately for $3,172,500 — a staggering payday for what started as a simple cent.
Hidden
Here’s what makes the story even better — some of these coins may still be out there.
Back in the 1940s, nobody realized these error coins were special. They went into circulation like normal change. That means a rare 1943 copper penny could be waiting in an old piggy bank, buried under couch cushions, or sitting at the bottom of a dusty jar.
Check
Think you might have stumbled across one? Here’s how to check:
| Feature | Copper Wheat Penny | Steel Wheat Penny |
|---|---|---|
| Date | 1943 | 1943 |
| Material | Copper (reddish tone) | Steel (grey tone) |
| Magnet Test | Doesn’t stick | Sticks to a magnet |
| Weight | 3.11 grams | 2.7 grams |
If you come across a 1943 penny that doesn’t stick to a magnet, don’t clean it — that could ruin its value. Instead, get it authenticated by a professional coin grading service.
Hobby
For many collectors, the joy of coin hunting isn’t just about the big money — it’s the thrill of finding, the stories behind the coins, and the sense of history in your hands. Every penny has a past.
Plenty of people start out casually — sifting through change or going through old family coin tins — and quickly find themselves hooked. Even if you never strike gold, the journey is its own reward.
Excitement
The idea that a $3.17 million coin could be sitting in your loose change is wild — but it’s real. With only about 20 known 1943 copper Wheat Pennies out there, finding one is like hitting the collector’s jackpot.
So, the next time you’re handed change at the store, take a moment to glance at those pennies. You never know — your next lucky break could be hiding in plain sight.
FAQs
What makes the 1943 penny rare?
It was mistakenly made from copper instead of steel.
How many 1943 copper pennies exist?
Only about 20 are known to exist worldwide.
How can I test if my penny is copper?
Use a magnet — copper pennies won’t stick.
What is the weight of a copper penny?
A copper Wheat Penny weighs about 3.11 grams.
Where should I get my coin checked?
Use a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC.
