Many people often overlook small coins in their pockets, but some of them can be worth a fortune. One such coin is the rare Lincoln Wheat Penny that has surprised the world with its staggering value—estimated to be worth as much as $840,000. What makes this more interesting is that this rare coin might still be in everyday circulation, which means you could have a small treasure hiding in your loose change.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a coin that was first introduced in 1909 by the U.S. Mint. It features the image of President Abraham Lincoln on the front and has two wheat stalks on the back, which is why it’s called the “Wheat Penny.” This coin was produced until 1958, after which the design was changed.
These coins were made mostly from copper, but due to changes in materials during World War II, some variations were created that are now extremely rare. Most people used these coins without realizing that a few versions would one day become collector’s items.
Why Is One Penny Worth $840,000?
The specific Lincoln Wheat Penny that is said to be worth $840,000 is a rare minting error. These errors happen when the coin is produced with mistakes—like being made from the wrong metal, having doubled images, or being printed in a year when it shouldn’t have been. These mistakes make such coins incredibly valuable to collectors.
One example is the 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny. During that year, the U.S. Mint used steel instead of copper for pennies because copper was needed for war materials. However, a small number of copper blanks were accidentally used to make pennies. These rare 1943 copper pennies are now worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on their condition and authenticity.
How to Identify a Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny
Spotting a valuable Lincoln Wheat Penny isn’t too difficult if you know what to look for. First, check the year printed on the coin. Rare years include 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, and the famous 1943 copper penny. Then, look at the condition. A coin that is clean, shiny, and hasn’t been damaged is usually worth more.
Also, some coins have letters like “D” or “S” under the year, which stand for the Denver and San Francisco Mints. Coins with these markings from certain years are much rarer than others. You might even want to use a magnifying glass to spot tiny differences that could mean the coin is a rare mint error.
Could This Penny Still Be in Circulation?
Yes, it’s possible. While collectors have taken many rare coins out of circulation, some still end up in people’s pockets, piggy banks, or old coin jars. It’s not common, but it has happened. That’s why experts encourage people to take a second look at their spare change—especially older pennies with the wheat design on the back.
You never know. A simple coin you picked up while buying something could turn out to be a small fortune in disguise.
What Should You Do If You Find One?
If you think you’ve found a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny, the first step is not to clean it. Cleaning a coin can lower its value. Instead, store it safely and take it to a professional coin dealer or appraiser who can check its authenticity and give you an estimated value.
You can also compare it with pictures and guides available online. But for a final opinion, it’s always best to consult with an expert.
The story of the Lincoln Wheat Penny valued at $840,000 is a reminder that sometimes, valuable things come in small packages. This humble-looking coin could be worth a small fortune—and it might just be lying unnoticed in someone’s drawer or pocket. So next time you see a penny, take a closer look. It could be your lucky day.
FAQs
What makes the Lincoln Wheat Penny worth $840,000?
The $840,000 value comes from a rare minting error, especially the 1943 copper version that was mistakenly struck with copper instead of steel during World War II.
How can I check if I have a valuable Wheat Penny?
Look for specific dates like 1943 in copper, 1909-S VDB, or 1914-D. Check for mint marks and unusual features, but avoid cleaning the coin.
Can rare pennies still be found in circulation?
Yes, although rare, some valuable Wheat Pennies are still out there in everyday change, old jars, or forgotten collections.
What should I do if I find a rare Wheat Penny?
Keep it in its original condition and take it to a professional coin dealer or appraiser to confirm its authenticity and value.
Why were some 1943 pennies made with copper?
Due to wartime needs, pennies in 1943 were supposed to be made from steel, but a few copper blanks were accidentally used, making those coins extremely rare.
