It’s hard to believe a single penny could be worth nearly $900,000, but that’s exactly the case with one ultra-rare Lincoln Wheat Penny from 1943. Even more shocking — coin experts believe that at least one or two of these rare pennies could still be floating around in circulation today. Found in old coin jars, rolls from the bank, or even tucked inside forgotten collections, this historic penny is a hidden gem worth looking out for.
So, what makes this small copper coin worth close to a million dollars? And how can you spot one? Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was minted from 1909 to 1958, named for the two wheat stalks on the reverse side. With Abraham Lincoln featured on the obverse, it became the first U.S. coin to feature a real person. While many of these pennies are common, a few rare mint errors — like the one from 1943 — are worth serious money.
Why Is the 1943 Bronze Penny So Valuable?
In 1943, the U.S. Mint switched from using bronze (copper) to zinc-coated steel for pennies to conserve copper for World War II. But by accident, a few bronze blanks were left in the machines and struck into 1943 pennies.
These 1943 bronze pennies are extremely rare — only around a dozen are confirmed to exist, with even fewer from specific mints like Denver (D) or San Francisco (S). One of these rare finds reportedly fetched $900,000 at auction, making it one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history.
How to Identify the $900K Wheat Penny
If you’re checking your coins or going through a collection, here’s how to check if you have this ultra-rare penny:
1. Year & Mint Mark
Look for the date 1943. A penny with no mint mark was made in Philadelphia, while “D” means Denver, and “S” stands for San Francisco. All versions are rare if made of bronze.
2. Color
A copper or brown-colored 1943 penny could be bronze — which is rare. Most 1943 pennies are steel and silver-gray.
3. Magnet Test
Steel pennies stick to a magnet. Bronze does not. If it doesn’t stick, that’s a great sign.
4. Weight
A steel penny weighs about 2.7 grams, while a bronze one weighs around 3.11 grams. You’ll need a precise scale to measure this.
5. Condition
Coins in better condition (little wear, no scratches) are even more valuable.
If you think you have a 1943 bronze penny, contact a reputable coin grading service like PCGS or NGC to get it authenticated and valued.
Still in Circulation? Believe It
Yes, even with its value, experts believe some of these rare 1943 bronze Wheat Pennies are still out there, possibly passed through hands unknowingly for decades. Whether tucked inside a coin jar or hidden in an old coin roll from the bank, the next person to discover one could walk away with close to $900,000.
The 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of the rarest coins ever produced by the U.S. Mint. Worth up to $900K, it’s not just a coin — it’s a piece of American history. And the fact that one might still be hiding in plain sight makes it all the more thrilling for coin hunters and everyday people alike. So the next time you see a 1943 penny, don’t ignore it — it might just be your lucky day.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny worth $900K?
Because in 1943, pennies were supposed to be made from steel due to wartime copper shortages. A few were mistakenly struck on leftover bronze blanks, making them extremely rare and valuable.
How do I identify a 1943 bronze penny?
Look for a 1943 penny that is brown or copper-colored, does not stick to a magnet, and weighs around 3.11 grams. It may also have a mint mark: no mark (Philadelphia), “D” (Denver), or “S” (San Francisco).
Could the $900K penny still be in circulation?
Yes, experts believe a few of these rare 1943 bronze pennies may still be hidden in circulation, old collections, or coin jars. That’s why it’s worth checking your change carefully.
What should I do if I think I found a rare penny?
If you believe you’ve found a rare 1943 bronze penny, have it professionally evaluated by a grading service like PCGS or NGC to confirm its authenticity and value.
Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
No, most 1943 pennies are made of steel and are only worth a few cents. Only the bronze versions — which are extremely rare — carry high value.
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