Hard to believe, but a small copper coin sitting quietly in someone’s coin jar could be worth more than $1 million. It’s called the Lincoln Wheat Penny—an old U.S. one-cent coin—and collectors everywhere are on the lookout for a few incredibly rare versions.
What’s even crazier? Some of these prized pennies might still be out there, hidden in plain sight. Let’s dive into what makes them so special—and how to tell if you’ve struck gold.
History
The Lincoln Wheat Penny made its debut in 1909, featuring President Abraham Lincoln on the front and two wheat stalks on the back—that’s how it got its nickname.
The wheat design ran until 1958, when the U.S. Mint switched to the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse. Most Wheat Pennies are fairly common, but a few are now considered extremely rare.
Value
While most Wheat Pennies are just worth a cent or two, some versions are now worth a small fortune. The standout? The legendary 1943 Copper Penny.
In 1943, copper was needed for WWII, so the Mint used zinc-coated steel for pennies. But a few copper blanks accidentally made their way into the presses. Fewer than 40 are known to exist, and one in great shape can sell for over $1 million.
Then there’s the 1909-S VDB penny, minted in San Francisco and stamped with the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner. Because of its limited production, it’s also hugely valuable to collectors.
Depending on condition, these coins can range from a few thousand to well over a million dollars.
Circulation
Here’s the exciting part—these rare pennies haven’t all been scooped up.
They could still be stashed away in an old piggy bank, buried in a junk drawer, or sitting unnoticed in someone’s collection. Occasionally, they even show up at garage sales or antique shops.
That’s why collectors always say: take a closer look at your coins. You never know what’s hiding in your spare change.
Clues
Think you’ve got a winner? Keep an eye out for these details:
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Penny | A 1943 penny that looks copper, not grey—test it with a magnet (steel sticks, copper won’t) |
| 1909-S VDB Penny | Look for “VDB” initials on the back and an “S” mint mark below the date |
| Mint Condition | Crisp details, clean surface, no major wear |
| Double-Die Error | Letters or numbers that look slightly doubled |
If a coin checks any of these boxes, don’t rush to sell. Get it authenticated by a coin expert or certified appraiser.
Appeal
So, why do these pennies cause such a stir?
It’s the rarity, the story behind each one, and the thrill of finding something that’s been hiding in plain sight. These coins are a tangible piece of American history—and their value keeps rising.
Even if you don’t land a million-dollar find, many Wheat Pennies are still worth hundreds or thousands depending on their condition and mint year.
So next time you’re sifting through old change or helping grandma clean out a drawer, don’t overlook that worn little penny. It could turn out to be your million-dollar moment.
FAQs
What makes the 1943 penny valuable?
It’s rare because it was mistakenly made from copper instead of steel.
Where is the VDB mark on the 1909 penny?
It’s located on the reverse side, near the bottom rim of the coin.
Can I still find a rare penny today?
Yes, though rare, they may still be in old collections or circulation.
How can I tell if my penny is steel or copper?
Use a magnet—steel pennies will stick, copper ones won’t.
What should I do if I find a rare coin?
Get it appraised by a professional coin dealer or numismatist.
