Most people don’t think twice about dropping a penny into a jar or leaving it behind at the checkout counter. But what if that overlooked coin was actually a hidden treasure? Believe it or not, one rare version of the Lincoln Wheat Penny has been valued at an astonishing $13 million—and it could still be quietly circulating among everyday pocket change.
The Penny That Changed U.S. Coinage Forever
In 1909, to commemorate the 100th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln, the U.S. Mint released a revolutionary new coin. For the first time in American history, real human likeness—not a symbolic figure—appeared on currency. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the Lincoln Wheat Penny featured Lincoln’s profile on the front and a pair of wheat ears on the reverse.
This beloved design ran from 1909 until 1958 and has since become a favorite among collectors. But not all Wheat Pennies are created equal—some are exceptionally rare, and one error coin from 1943 is now considered one of the most valuable coins in the world.
The 1943 Copper Wheat Penny – A $13 Million Mistake
During World War II, copper was critically needed for wartime manufacturing. As a result, the U.S. Mint switched to using steel coated in zinc for pennies in 1943. But somehow, a small number of copper planchets (coin blanks) were left in the machines and accidentally struck.
These copper 1943 Wheat Pennies were never meant to exist—and that’s what makes them so incredibly valuable.
Why This Coin Is So Special:
- Only about 40 genuine examples are known to exist.
- One sold in 2010 for $1.7 million, and experts believe a perfect specimen could easily bring in up to $13 million today.
- Its origin is mysterious, and its rarity has fueled decades of collector excitement.
How to Tell If You Have the $13 Million Penny
Think you might be holding a fortune in the palm of your hand? Here’s how to check for a 1943 copper Wheat Penny:
- Check the Date: Look for a 1943 stamp under Lincoln’s profile.
- Try the Magnet Test: Zinc-coated steel pennies will stick to a magnet. A genuine copper 1943 penny won’t.
- Look for a Mint Mark: A small “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) under the date could add even more value, as some mint locations produced fewer of these errors.
Where Might You Find One?
These rare coins have been discovered in the most unexpected places, including:
- Old piggy banks or change jars
- Rolls of pennies from banks
- Inherited coin collections from older relatives
- Yard sales, flea markets, or estate auctions
Sometimes the most valuable treasures are hiding in plain sight.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Found One
If you come across a 1943 penny that doesn’t stick to a magnet, here’s your plan:
- Don’t clean it. Cleaning can permanently damage the coin and reduce its value.
- Handle it carefully, preferably with gloves or by the edges.
- Take it to a professional coin dealer or numismatist for a preliminary check.
- Get it certified by a reputable grading company like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation).
- Consider putting it up for auction — these coins have been known to spark bidding wars at top auction houses.
Why the Lincoln Wheat Penny Still Captivates Collectors
In today’s digital world, it’s easy to forget the thrill of physical treasure hunting. But coin collecting continues to thrive — especially when a single penny could turn someone into a millionaire. The history, mystery, and rarity behind coins like the 1943 copper Wheat Penny make them symbols of possibility.
Final Thoughts
Sure, the odds are slim. But someone, somewhere, could still be holding this rare $13 million coin without even knowing it. So the next time you’re digging through spare change or rolling pennies at the bank, take a closer look — because that ordinary-looking penny could be anything but ordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What makes the 1943 copper Wheat Penny so valuable?
It was a minting error during WWII when pennies were supposed to be made of steel, not copper. Its rarity, historical context, and accidental nature make it highly desirable to collectors.
Q2: How can I confirm if my 1943 penny is real copper?
Start with the magnet test. If it doesn’t stick, there’s a chance it’s copper. Then consult a coin expert and have it professionally authenticated.
Q3: Are all 1943 Wheat Pennies valuable?
No. Most are steel and worth a few cents to a few dollars. Only the copper ones are worth thousands to millions.
Q4: Should I clean a penny I suspect is valuable?
Never clean collectible coins—it can ruin their natural surface and destroy their market value.
Q5: Can I sell it myself, or should I go through an auction house?
For high-value coins, it’s best to work with professional dealers or established auction houses to ensure safety, proper valuation, and maximum return.