Just imagine: the next time you get coins back from a shop, you might be handed a small fortune. A rare Lincoln Wheat Penny, still in circulation, has now been valued at a massive $155,000 (₹1.29 Crore approx). That’s right—a simple-looking old coin could be worth more than most people’s yearly income! This article explains why this penny is so valuable, how to identify it, and where you might find one.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a U.S. coin that was introduced in 1909. It features Abraham Lincoln on one side and two wheat stalks on the other. These pennies were produced until 1958, after which the design was changed to the Lincoln Memorial. Many of these coins are now considered collector’s items, and some are even worth lakhs of rupees.
Why Is This Coin Worth $155,000?
Not every Lincoln Wheat Penny is valuable, but a few special versions are worth lakhs. One of the most famous is the 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny. During World War II, the U.S. government used steel instead of copper to make pennies. However, a few copper coins were accidentally produced that year—these are extremely rare.
Because of their mistake and low quantity, one of these copper 1943 pennies was recently valued at $155,000. It’s now one of the most wanted coins by collectors worldwide.
How to Identify the Rare 1943 Copper Penny
If you have an old penny, here are some tips to check if it’s the rare one:
- Check the year – Look for “1943”
- Do a magnet test – Steel pennies will stick to a magnet. Copper ones will not
- Check the colour – Copper coins are reddish-brown, steel ones are grey
- Look for errors – Double stamping, off-center printing, or faded text could increase value
- Condition matters – Coins in good condition sell for more
Where to Find One
These valuable pennies are still out there, and you might find one in:
- Shop change
- Old piggy banks
- Coin jars at home
- Flea markets or antique shops
- Inherited collections from family
- Always take a second look before you ignore an old coin!
What Should You Do If You Find One?
If you believe you’ve found a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny:
- Keep it safe – don’t clean or scratch it
- Use a magnet to check the metal
- Compare it with pictures online
- Visit a professional coin dealer for verification
- If real, consider selling it through auctions or certified platforms
The 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny may look like an ordinary old coin, but it could change your life. One recently sold for $155,000, and it’s possible that a few more are still being passed around in everyday change. So next time you receive coins at a petrol pump or grocery store, take a moment to check. You could be holding a rare treasure worth more than ₹1 crore!
FAQ’s
What is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a US coin made from 1909 to 1958. It shows Abraham Lincoln on the front and two wheat stalks on the back.
Why is the 1943 Lincoln Penny worth $155,000?
In 1943, pennies were made from steel due to wartime shortages. A few were mistakenly made with copper, making them very rare and valuable.
How can I tell if my 1943 penny is made of copper?
Use a magnet. If the coin sticks, it’s steel. If not, it may be copper. Also, check the colour—copper looks reddish-brown.
Where can I find a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny?
You might find one in old jars, shop change, antique stores, or coin collections passed down from family.
What should I do if I find a 1943 copper penny?
Keep it safe and get it appraised by a coin expert. If verified, you can sell it through auctions or to collectors for a high price.
Hello. My name is John H Stewart Jr.
I have several wheat pennies.
My question is when the next coin exhibit
Here in Atlanta Georgia please?
Hello John,
You can check all upcoming exhibitions here: https://coin-dealer-directory.money.org/event/all-events