A penny in your change could be worth a fortune! A rare Lincoln Wheat penny, valued at up to $2.3 million, is still out there, hiding in wallets, coin jars, or even under couch cushions. Known for its wheat stalk design, this coin is a collector’s dream because of a tiny minting mistake. People have found these pennies in everyday places, and you might have one too. Here’s what makes this penny so special and how to spot it.
A Small Error, a Huge Value
In 1943, during World War II, the U.S. Mint made pennies out of steel to save copper for the war. But a few pennies were accidentally struck in copper at the Philadelphia Mint. These rare 1943 copper pennies are super valuable, with one selling for $2.3 million in 2023. Only about 20 are known to exist, making them one of the most sought-after coins in the world.
How to Spot the Million-Dollar Penny
Finding this penny takes a close look. It looks like a regular Lincoln Wheat penny, with Abraham Lincoln on the front and wheat stalks on the back. But it’s made of copper, not steel. You can use a magnet to check—copper won’t stick, but steel will. Here’s a guide to help you:
| Feature | 1943 Copper Penny | Regular 1943 Penny |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Copper (shiny brown) | Steel (silver-gray) |
| Magnet Test | Doesn’t stick | Sticks to magnet |
| Weight | 3.11 grams | 2.7 grams |
| Mint Mark | None (Philadelphia) | “D” or “S” or none |
- Check the date: It must say “1943.”
- Test with a magnet: If it doesn’t stick, it’s copper.
- Weigh it: A copper penny is heavier, at 3.11 grams.
- Look for no mint mark: No letter under the date means it’s from Philadelphia.
Where These Pennies Might Be
These rare pennies could be anywhere! Some have been found in change at stores, vending machines, or old piggy banks. Check rolls of pennies from the bank or family coin collections. A kid in California found a 1943 copper penny in his dad’s coin tin in 2022 and it sold for $1.7 million! Your loose change or grandma’s jar might hold a treasure.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve got a 1943 copper penny, don’t clean it or spend it! Cleaning can lower its value. Take it to a trusted coin dealer or appraiser to confirm it’s real. Store it in a soft plastic holder to keep it safe. If it’s genuine, you could be sitting on a life-changing amount of money.
Start Looking Today
The 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat penny is a hidden gem waiting to be found. Your odds are low, but the reward is huge. Next time you get a penny in change, take a second look. That little coin might just be your ticket to millions!
