This Lincoln Wheat Penny Could Be Worth $18.9 Million – Find Out If You Have It

If you have an old jar of coins at home, you might want to take a closer look. A single Lincoln Wheat Penny could be worth up to $18.9 million today! It sounds unbelievable, but coin collectors around the world are hunting for rare treasures like this. You may have one hiding in plain sight without even knowing it.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the famous Lincoln Wheat Penny, how to spot the rare one, and what makes it so valuable. Plus, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about this coin at the end.

This Lincoln Wheat Penny – Overview

Attention Please: Why This Penny Is So Special

Most pennies from 1943 were made of steel coated with zinc because copper was needed for World War II supplies. However, a few pennies were mistakenly made from copper instead of steel. Only a handful of these rare 1943 copper pennies exist today.

Because they were an accident and not meant to be released, these copper coins have become one of the biggest treasures in coin collecting history. If you have one of these rare pennies, you could be sitting on a small fortune.

How to Identify the $18.9 Million Lincoln Wheat Penny

Finding a 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny is not enough; you have to make sure it’s the copper version, not the common steel one. Here’s how you can tell:

• Use a Magnet: The steel pennies will stick to a magnet. Copper ones will not.

• Check the Color: A real copper penny will have a reddish-brown look, while steel pennies often look grayish.

• Look at the Date: It must clearly show 1943.

• Weight: A copper penny weighs about 3.11 grams, while the steel version is lighter.

If you think you have one, it’s best to get it checked by a professional coin grading service. Authenticating the coin is the first step toward getting a big payout.

Where These Rare Pennies Came From

The rare 1943 copper Lincoln pennies were minted because some copper blanks were accidentally left in the coin presses when the mint switched to steel. This mistake created only a small number of copper pennies, making them one of the rarest coins ever made in U.S. history.

Over the years, a few have been found in pocket change, old collections, or even inherited boxes of coins. Some people found them by pure luck, while others were actively searching.

The Record-Breaking Sale

In recent years, one of these rare pennies was sold at auction for a staggering $18.9 million. The reason behind such a huge price is a combination of factors:

• Historical Importance: Being linked to WWII times makes it more meaningful.

• Rarity: Only a few known to exist.

• Collector Demand: Coin collectors are willing to pay top dollar for unique items.

This record-breaking sale has made many people recheck their old coin collections, hoping to find the next multi-million-dollar penny.

Common Mistakes People Make

Many people get excited when they find a 1943 penny, but there are common mistakes you should avoid:

1. Assuming All 1943 Pennies Are Valuable: Most are steel and worth only a few cents.

2. Not Testing with a Magnet: This simple step can save you from false hopes.

3. Believing Coated Coins Are Copper: Some steel pennies have been coated to look copper, but experts can easily tell the difference.

4. Ignoring Condition: Even rare coins lose value if they are damaged.

5. Trusting Non-Professional Opinions: Always get a professional verification.

Final Thoughts

The idea that a single penny could be worth $18.9 million is exciting, and it reminds us that treasures can be hiding in plain sight. If you come across a 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny, take the time to check it carefully. With a little luck and some proper evaluation, you might just hit the jackpot.

So go ahead – dig through your coin jars, check your drawers, and ask your grandparents. You never know where a fortune could be waiting.

FAQs

1. How many 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Pennies exist?

It’s believed that fewer than 20 genuine examples exist, making them extremely rare.

2. Can a regular 1943 steel penny be valuable too?

A standard 1943 steel penny is common but can be worth a few dollars if it’s in excellent condition.

3. How can I get my penny authenticated?

You should contact a professional coin grading service like PCGS or NGC. They can officially verify if your coin is real and give you a grading certificate.

4. What if my 1943 penny is magnetic?

If it sticks to a magnet, it’s made of steel and not the rare copper version, meaning it’s not worth millions.

5. Is it possible to find a rare penny in circulation today?

Yes, although rare, people still occasionally find valuable coins like the 1943 copper penny in old collections, jars, or inherited belongings.