It’s easy to ignore the small coins we receive as change after a purchase. But what if one of those coins could be worth more than a house? Believe it or not, a small one-cent coin — the Lincoln Wheat Penny — has been valued at a jaw-dropping $1,440,000.
Even more surprising, this valuable coin might still be in circulation. Yes, it could be sitting quietly in someone’s piggy bank or change jar right now.
Let’s take a closer look at this hidden treasure and how you can spot one of these life-changing coins.
Origins
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first introduced in 1909 to honour the 100th birthday of Abraham Lincoln. It was the first U.S. coin to show a real person’s face. On the front is Lincoln’s profile, and on the back are two wheat stalks, which is why it’s called the “Wheat Penny.”
These coins were minted until 1958. While most of them are only worth face value, a few rare versions — because of minting errors or limited production — are worth thousands, or even millions, today.
Value
Some Lincoln Wheat Pennies are considered extremely rare due to mistakes made during their production or the use of wrong materials. One of the most famous and valuable types is the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny.
In 1943, the U.S. government decided to make pennies out of steel because copper was needed for World War II. But a small number of bronze blanks from 1942 were accidentally used in 1943. These mistakes created some of the rarest coins in the world.
Only a few of these 1943 bronze pennies are known to exist today, and one in excellent condition was sold for $1,440,000. Its high value comes from its rarity, condition, and the historical mistake that caused its creation.
Spotting
Even though you may not be a coin expert, there are some simple things to check. Look at the year on the front of the coin. If you see 1943 and the coin doesn’t stick to a magnet, it might be bronze, which is very rare.
Also, look for special years like 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 No D, and 1955 Double Die. These are all rare versions that collectors love.
Another tip is to check the mint mark — a small letter under the year that tells you where the coin was made. Coins from San Francisco (marked “S”) or Denver (“D”) can be more valuable, depending on the year and type.
Chance
It’s completely possible. Many of these coins ended up in pockets, drawers, and change jars. Over the years, they’ve been passed around like any other coin. Most people never notice them because they look so ordinary.
Some lucky people have found rare Wheat Pennies while going through old coin boxes, inherited collections, or even while receiving change at shops. So don’t ignore those old pennies — they could be worth a fortune.
Action
If you think you’ve found a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny, don’t clean it or try to polish it. That can reduce its value. Keep it safe and take it to a trusted coin dealer or send it to a coin grading service. They will check the condition and confirm if it’s really rare.
Once verified, you can either keep it as a collector’s item or sell it at an auction. Some collectors and investors are willing to pay large amounts for rare coins in good condition.
The Lincoln Wheat Penny shows us that history can be hiding in plain sight — even in your own wallet. One of these old coins has already been valued at $1,440,000, and it’s not the only one out there.
These rare coins are still being found by everyday people who take the time to look closely. So next time you see an old penny, don’t ignore it — it could be your lucky day.
FAQs
Which penny is worth $1.44 million?
The 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny.
Why were bronze pennies rare in 1943?
Steel was used for war; bronze was a minting error.
How do I test my 1943 penny?
Use a magnet—bronze won’t stick, steel will.
What years of Wheat Pennies are valuable?
1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 No D, 1955 Double Die.
Where can I check my penny’s value?
Visit a certified coin dealer or grading service.
