A small coin that many people might ignore or toss into a piggy bank could actually be worth a small fortune. The Lincoln Wheat Penny, once just another coin used in everyday transactions, is now making headlines for its incredible value. One of these rare pennies has recently been valued at an eye-popping $9990K, and what’s more surprising—some of them are still in circulation.
What Makes the Lincoln Wheat Penny So Special?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first minted in 1909 and continued until 1958. These coins were made from copper and feature a portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the front, with two wheat ears on the back. While they were once a common part of everyday life in the US, today they are treasured by coin collectors all over the world.
Also See:
How to Know your Rare Coins & Wheat Pennies Value: Simplest Guide Ever
What makes a few of these pennies worth so much money is their rarity. Some versions, especially those with minting errors or made in very small numbers, have become extremely valuable over time. For example, a 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny made from copper instead of steel is considered one of the rarest in the world. Most 1943 pennies were made from steel due to wartime copper shortages, so any copper ones that slipped through are now worth a lot of money.
Complete List of Top-Selling Coins in 2024 Year
The full list of 2024’s highest-priced coins shows how often PCGS comes up. Here are a few more highlights:
| Rank | Coin Description | Grade | Price (USD) | Auction Month | Auction House |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Undated (1652) NE Threepence | PCGS XF45 | $2,520,000 | November 2024 | Stack’s Bowers |
| 2 | 1870-CC Liberty Head Double Eagle | PCGS AU55 | $1,440,000 | November 2024 | Stack’s Bowers |
| T-3 | 1850 Baldwin & Co. $10 | PCGS MS63+ | $1,260,000 | November 2024 | Stack’s Bowers |
| T-3 | 1855 $50 Kellogg & Co. Fifty Dollar | PCGS PR64CAM | $1,260,000 | January 2024 | Heritage |
| 5 | 1860 $5 Large Planchet Half Eagle | PCGS PR64+DCAM | $1,140,000 | January 2024 | Heritage |
| 6 | 1825/4/1 Capped Head Left Half Eagle | PCGS PR62 | $1,080,000 | August 2024 | Stack’s Bowers |
| 7 | 1851 $5 Schultz & Co. Five Dollar | PCGS MS62 | $1,020,000 | January 2024 | Heritage |
| 8 | 1868 $10 Liberty Head Eagle | PCGS PR66CAM | $930,000 | January 2024 | Heritage |
| 9 | 1779 (1789) John Stewart at Stony Point Medal | PCGS MS62 | $900,000 | March 2024 | Stack’s Bowers |
| T-10 | 1879 Four-Dollar Gold Stella, Flowing Hair | PCGS PR67DCAM | $840,000 | March 2024 | Stack’s Bowers |
| T-10 | 1870-CC Liberty Head Double Eagle | PCGS AU50 | $840,000 | March 2024 | Stack’s Bowers |
| 12 | 1863 $10 Liberty Ten Dollar | PCGS PR64CAM | $810,000 | May 2024 | Heritage |
| 13 | 1876-CC 20C | PCGS MS65 | $690,000 | August 2024 | Heritage |
| 14 | 1881-O Morgan Dollar | PCGS PR64 | $660,000 | November 2024 | Stack’s Bowers |
| 15 | 1795 $10 (13 Leaves) | PCGS MS64+ | $600,000 | May 2024 | Heritage |
| 16 | 1907 Indian Gold Eagle Rolled Edge | PCGS MS65+ | $589,500 | February 2024 | GreatCollections |
| 17 | 1794 1C Head of 1794, Double Struck | NGC MS66BN | $588,000 | August 2024 | Heritage |
| 18 | 1878 Pattern Half Eagle | PCGS PR65+CAM | $576,000 | August 2024 | Stack’s Bowers |
| 19 | 1887 Liberty Head Double Eagle | PCGS PR65+DCAM | $528,000 | November 2024 | Stack’s Bowers |
| 20 | 1918/7-D Buffalo Nickel | PCGS MS65+ | $511,875 | February 2024 | GreatCollections |
| 21 | 1975 Roosevelt Dime No S | PCGS PR67 | $506,250 | October 2024 | GreatCollections |
| 22 | 1804 DT$10 Ten Dollar | PCGS PR64 | $504,000 | January 2024 | Heritage |
| 23 | 1893-S $1 | PCGS MS63 | $444,000 | January 2024 | Heritage |
| 24 | 1794 Cent (Head of 1793, Edge of 1794) | PCGS MS64BN | $432,000 | January 2024 | Heritage |
| 25 | 1892 Liberty Gold Double Eagle | PCGS MS67 | $429,750 | April 2024 | GreatCollections |
| 26 | 1870-CC Liberty Head Eagle | PCGS AU55 | $420,000 | August 2024 | Stack’s Bowers |
| T-27 | 1893 $20 | PCGS PR65DCAM | $408,000 | May 2024 | Heritage |
| T-27 | 1854-S Liberty Head Quarter Eagle | NGC AU50 | $408,000 | August 2024 | Stack’s Bowers |
| T-27 | 1877 $50 Half Union | PCGS PR67BN | $408,000 | January 2024 | Heritage |
| 30 | 1871-CC Liberty Gold Double Eagle | PCGS MS61 | $395,438 | August 2024 | GreatCollections |
How to Spot This Rare Penny?
The idea that such a valuable coin could still be in circulation is exciting. You might have one in your wallet, coin jar, or even tucked away in an old drawer at home.
To check if your Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of the rare ones, here are some things to look for:
Check the date: Coins from 1909 to 1958 are all considered Lincoln Wheat Pennies. But the rarest ones include 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 (no D), and 1943 copper.
Look for errors: Some of the most valuable coins have minting mistakes like double dates or missing mint marks.
Inspect the metal: If you find a 1943 penny that looks like copper instead of steel, get it checked. It could be worth thousands or even millions.
Why Is It Still Circulating?
You might wonder how such an expensive coin is still out there being used. The truth is, many people don’t realize the value of old coins. A lot of these rare pennies were never removed from circulation, especially when their value wasn’t known at the time. Some might have been stored away and later returned to the bank, or simply handed over in change during everyday purchases.
With millions of coins minted over the years, it’s entirely possible that a few valuable ones are still mixed into general circulation. That’s why collectors and treasure hunters are always on the lookout.
Should You Start Checking Your Change?
Yes, absolutely. It doesn’t cost anything to look at your coins more carefully. While most pennies are only worth their face value, that one rare coin could change your life. It’s like finding treasure hidden in plain sight.
Many coin collectors started their journey simply by checking coins at home or in their pockets. With a little knowledge and some patience, you might be lucky enough to spot a Lincoln Wheat Penny worth a fortune.
Also See:
5 Tips: How to Clean your Copper or Zinc Pennies without loosing its Value
The Lincoln Wheat Penny valued at $9990K reminds us that history and value often go hand in hand. A simple coin, once used for buying candy or newspapers, can now be worth a fortune because of its rarity and historical importance. So next time you get change at a store, don’t be so quick to spend your pennies. Take a closer look—you might just be holding a piece of history that’s worth a small fortune.
FAQs
What is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a one-cent coin minted in the United States from 1909 to 1958. It features Abraham Lincoln on the front and two wheat ears on the back, making it popular among collectors.
Why is the 1943 copper Lincoln Penny so valuable?
In 1943, most pennies were made of steel due to copper being used for World War II. A few copper versions were accidentally minted, making them extremely rare and worth up to millions.
How do I know if I have a valuable Wheat Penny?
Look for key dates like 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, or a 1943 copper version. Also check for minting errors like missing letters or double dates, which can add to the coin’s value.
Are these rare pennies really still in circulation?
Yes, many people are unaware of their value and spend them as normal change. Some rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies are still found in pockets, jars, and old collections.
Where can I get my penny checked for value?
You can visit a local coin dealer, check online marketplaces like eBay for similar listings, or consult professional coin grading services to find out your penny’s value.
I have all kinds of coins I have about 4 of the still Penny’s don’t know how to sell them or where to sell them at so if you can help me I appreciate it
Hello Jason West,
You can contact here for selling your coins: https://coin-dealer-directory.money.org/
Here you can find the coin dealers and buyers.
Thank you
I have all kinds of coins from 1922,1925,1927,1930,1936,1939,1941,1943,1944,1945,1947,1955,1957,1958, and 1959 all of the 6o,70,80, please text me I want to sell them 517 619 7137
Willy ,Hi
I have a 1902,1916,1919s,1928
R u in the market to buy wheat pennies .
How much is the silver dollar 1935
What up Willie this is Eric I’m from Santa maria CA. And I have close to 400 wheat back pennies ranging from 30s 40s and 50s In multiples including 55 s mint d mint and philly no mint also 44 s 44 d also no mint plus there not steel there copper maybe bronze plus all the others close to every decade of the years I’ve mentioned good fine fair condition what do u think it’s worth just curious I have a few people look at them got some decent offers but every year value rises…hope u could get back to me
Can u contact me really interested in what you
think
Sure buddy I can help you out my name Roland Martinez from San Antonio Texas and have a collection too I can show you where to take your coins and sell them if you like
I have a 1944 no mi t date copper and a 1939 just like the one your advertising anyways my name is billy joe and my cell number I’d 865 207 7592 if u wanna talk I have about 15 whets and 2 buffalo nickels and two V nickels 1902 and a 1899
Also my E-mail is [email protected]
Hi yes plz [email protected]
I have one
Don’t you just love collecting old coins kathy Smith I have a 1942 mercury dime and a 1964 silver dime and a wheat pennie its got aberham lincoin on the back he’s sitting on a log beside a sledgehammer reading a book.
I have a couple dozen wheat backs including some steel.,mine start at 1917 with random years up to 1958.
I also collect nickels,dimes, quarters, hall’s and dollar coins . I have quite a few bicentennial quarters and the 2021 crossing the Delaware quarters. I don’t know where to take them for authentication or value. Is there a reputable company in the central Texas area where I can have them inspected and/ or valued. Thank you.
Hello Melvin F Harmon,
We have written a blog which have the list of Delaware Coin Dealers: Have a look – https://www.hawkeyeshockey.com/delaware-state-coins-dealers-list-updated-2025-sell-your-wheat-pennies-rare-coins-and-cents/
I have a couple of old Penny’s that I’d like to have someone to let me know if they are rare coins and what does it sell for if anyone knows or can contact me i really appreciate it want to get rid of them
I have one wheat penny 1930, what is worth?
Hello Luis vigo,
Check your coins worth here: https://www.hawkeyeshockey.com/how-to-know-your-rare-coins-wheat-pennies-value-simplest-guide-ever/
I have a wheat penny could you contract me 910-4160766 if no answer text thanks
I just happened to come across your information on th value of old coins. I have a few of the ones that were mentioned😱 but I had no idea of the value, I’m certainly going to get them out of my storage I only kept them because my friend gave them to me, she found them while cleaning out her grandparents garage after 30years, if they are of value I will certainly split it with her.:Thks you for the info🙏🙏
Hello Priscilla Holman,
You can appraised your coins from here: Here is the complete details of Buyers and Dealers – https://coin-dealer-directory.money.org/new-jersey
Where is the best place in the state of New Jersey that people can get their Coins tested for authentication???
Hello Devery Bryant,
You can find the good dealers here: https://coin-dealer-directory.money.org/new-jersey
I have a 1943 white wheat penny.
I have some from 1909 to 1958 wheat back pennies I’d like to sell. Don’t know where to sell them. I also have Jefferson nickels collection as well and a couole stragglers of other coins
Hello Sheryl,
You can find the dealers according to your current location: Have a look https://www.coinvaluechecker.com/penny-value
I have a 1943 wheat penny.