Have you ever stopped to look closely at the coins in your wallet or change jar? One of them might be worth a fortune. Believe it or not, there’s a Lincoln Wheat Penny that has been valued at $1.2 million—and it might still be out there, hiding in everyday circulation. Let’s explore what makes this coin so rare, why it’s so valuable, and how you can check if you have one.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, also called the “Wheat Cent,” was first introduced in 1909 by the U.S. Mint to honour Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday. It features Lincoln’s portrait on the front and two wheat ears on the back. These coins were made from 1909 to 1958 and are mostly composed of copper.
While most Wheat Pennies are only worth a few cents, some extremely rare versions have sold for hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars.
The $1.2 Million Penny: 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint began producing pennies using steel coated with zinc to save copper for the war effort. However, by accident, a small number of bronze blanks (used before 1943) were left in the coin presses. These rare errors resulted in the creation of the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny—a coin that was never meant to exist.
Only a few of these coins were made, and collectors around the world are still searching for them. One of these rare bronze 1943 pennies was sold for $1.2 million at an auction due to its rarity, condition, and the story behind its creation.
Could It Still Be in Circulation?
Yes, it’s possible. Because coins are used, collected, or stored without much thought, one of these rare pennies could still be lying unnoticed in a piggy bank, drawer, or pocket. Most people don’t realise their spare change might include one of the rarest coins ever made.
That’s why it’s worth checking your old coins—especially those from 1943.
How to Identify the Rare 1943 Bronze Penny
Here’s how you can check if you have one of these rare coins:
- Check the Year: It must say 1943.
- Colour Test: Regular 1943 pennies are silver-coloured (steel), but the rare one is copper-coloured (bronze).
- Magnet Test: Steel pennies stick to magnets. If your 1943 penny doesn’t, it might be bronze.
- Weight: Bronze pennies weigh around 3.11 grams, while steel ones weigh less.
If you think you’ve found one, don’t clean it—it could reduce its value. Take it to a professional coin dealer or numismatist for verification.
While most people ignore small coins, one lucky discovery could change your life. The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny, valued at $1.2 million, is one of the rarest coins ever made—and it might still be out there. The next time you’re sorting through your spare change, take a closer look. You could be holding history—and a fortune—in the palm of your hand.
FAQ’s
What is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a U.S. coin minted from 1909 to 1958. It features Abraham Lincoln on the front and wheat stalks on the back.
Why is the 1943 Lincoln Penny worth $1.2 million?
Due to a minting error during WWII, a few 1943 pennies were made using bronze instead of steel. These rare coins are highly valuable.
How can I tell if I have the rare 1943 bronze penny?
Check if your 1943 penny is copper-coloured, doesn’t stick to a magnet, and weighs around 3.11 grams. These are signs it could be the rare version.
Is the $1.2 million penny still in circulation?
Yes, some rare coins like the 1943 bronze penny may still be in circulation as many people are unaware of their value.
What should I do if I find a rare penny?
Avoid cleaning the coin. Visit a certified coin dealer or numismatist to get it professionally evaluated.
