Imagine finding a penny in your pocket that turns out to be worth a staggering $2 million! The 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. history, and some experts believe a few may still be in circulation. This rare and valuable coin has captivated collectors and treasure hunters alike, hoping to stumble upon this hidden fortune.
The History of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first minted in 1909 and remained in production until 1958. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it was the first U.S. coin to feature a real historical figure—Abraham Lincoln. While most of these pennies are common, a few rare editions and minting errors make certain ones extremely valuable.
Why Was the 1943 Penny Different?
During World War II, copper was in high demand for military equipment, leading the U.S. Mint to change the composition of pennies from copper to zinc-coated steel. However, a rare error occurred—some 1943 pennies were mistakenly struck on leftover copper planchets from 1942. These coins became one of the rarest in U.S. history, with only 20 to 30 genuine 1943 copper pennies known to exist today.
How Much Is a 1943 Copper Penny Worth?
The value of a 1943 copper penny depends on its condition and mint mark. Some of these rare pennies have sold for record-breaking amounts:
| Year & Mint Mark | Auction Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 (No Mint Mark – Philadelphia) | $1.7 million (2010) | Sold in a private sale to a collector. |
| 1943-D (Denver Mint) | $1.75 million (2010) | The only known Denver-minted copper penny. |
| 1943-S (San Francisco Mint) | $1 million+ | Only a few known to exist. |
These staggering values show just how valuable a rare mistake can be!
How to Check If You Have a Rare 1943 Copper Penny
If you find a 1943 penny, follow these steps to see if it could be worth millions:
- Check the Color – A genuine 1943 copper penny should have a reddish-brown color, not the silvery appearance of a steel penny.
- Use a Magnet – A steel penny will stick to a magnet, but a copper one will not.
- Weigh the Penny – A copper penny weighs 3.11 grams, while a steel penny weighs 2.7 grams.
- Look for Mint Marks – The rare 1943 copper penny can be found with a D (Denver Mint), S (San Francisco Mint), or no mint mark (Philadelphia Mint).
- Get Professional Authentication – If you think you have one, have it verified by a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Other Valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies
While the 1943 copper penny is the most famous, other Lincoln Wheat Pennies are also worth a fortune:
| Year | Type | Estimated Value | Why It’s Valuable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | First Lincoln Penny | Up to $100,000+ | Only 484,000 were minted. |
| 1944 Steel Penny | Steel instead of Copper | Up to $1 million | A rare mistake after copper pennies returned in 1944. |
| 1955 Doubled Die | Double Image Error | $50,000+ | A famous misprint causing double lettering. |
Could the $2 Million Penny Still Be in Circulation?
Yes! While most of these rare pennies have been found, a few remain unaccounted for. Experts believe some might still be hidden in old coin jars, collections, or even in everyday pocket change.
Coin collectors and everyday people alike continue searching, hoping to find one of these legendary pennies. So next time you come across an old Lincoln Wheat Penny, take a closer look—you might just be holding a fortune!
FAQs
How can I tell if I have a 1943 copper penny?
Check its color, test it with a magnet (it should not stick), weigh it (should be 3.11 grams), and look for mint marks. The best way to confirm its authenticity is through a professional grading service.
What is the rarest Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The 1943 copper penny and the 1944 steel penny are among the rarest, with some selling for over $1 million.
Can I find a rare penny in circulation today?
Yes! While rare, valuable coins have been discovered in pocket change, old piggy banks, and coin rolls from banks.
Where can I sell a rare penny?
You can sell rare pennies at auctions (like Heritage Auctions), coin dealers, and online marketplaces such as eBay.
