Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny : In an era where digital currencies are gaining dominance, it’s hard to believe that a small copper coin minted over 70 years ago could be worth a small fortune. But that’s exactly the case with a rare version of the Lincoln Wheat Penny that collectors are valuing at up to $43,000. Even more fascinating—this valuable penny might still be in circulation, hiding in old jars, drawers, or your spare change.
This article delves into the mystery and value of the rare Lincoln Wheat Penny, how to spot one, and why it has become one of the most sought-after coins among collectors today.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny and Why Is It So Valuable?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, first minted in 1909, was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person—President Abraham Lincoln. These coins were minted until 1958 and are characterized by the two wheat stalks on the reverse side, giving them their nickname.
But among the many Lincoln Wheat Pennies minted, some rare variations stand out—especially the 1943 copper penny, which is believed to be worth up to $43,000 due to a minting error.
Key Features That Make a Lincoln Wheat Penny Valuable:
- Minting Error: The most famous error is the 1943 copper version, which was mistakenly struck using leftover copper blanks instead of the intended steel.
- Year and Mint Mark: Coins from specific years and mints are more valuable.
- Condition: Well-preserved coins in uncirculated or mint condition fetch higher prices.
- Rarity: The fewer there are, the more collectors are willing to pay.
How to Identify a $43,000 Lincoln Wheat Penny
Finding this penny is not just luck—it requires a sharp eye and a little knowledge. Here are the key indicators:
- Check the Year: Look for 1943. Most 1943 pennies are steel and stick to magnets. The rare ones are copper and won’t.
- Test with a Magnet: If a 1943 penny sticks to a magnet, it’s steel. If it doesn’t, it could be copper—and worth thousands.
- Look at the Mint Mark: Variations from Philadelphia (no mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S) can affect value.
- Weigh the Coin: A genuine 1943 copper penny should weigh about 3.11 grams, unlike steel ones which weigh 2.7 grams.
- Professional Grading: For accurate valuation, get the coin graded by a recognized service like PCGS or NGC.
Comparison of Lincoln Wheat Pennies (By Year and Type)
| Year | Mint Mark | Metal Type | Estimated Value (Circulated) | Estimated Value (Uncirculated) | Rarity | Magnetic? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 | No mark | Steel | $0.10 | $1.00 | Common | Yes |
| 1943 | D | Steel | $0.15 | $1.20 | Common | Yes |
| 1943 | S | Steel | $0.20 | $1.50 | Common | Yes |
| 1943 | No mark | Copper | $10,000 – $43,000 | $100,000+ | Ultra Rare | No |
| 1943 | D | Copper | $30,000 – $45,000 | $100,000+ | Ultra Rare | No |
| 1943 | S | Copper | $20,000 – $50,000 | $110,000+ | Ultra Rare | No |
| 1955 | No mark | Copper | $10.00 | $1,000 (for Double Die) | Rare | No |
How to Tell If Your 1943 Penny Is the Rare Copper Version
Here’s a quick guide to help you distinguish a standard steel penny from the valuable copper one:
- Use a small magnet: Steel coins will snap to it, copper won’t.
- Weigh the coin: Use a precision scale to check for the 3.11g weight.
- Visual inspection: Steel pennies look silver-gray, copper ones look reddish-brown.
- Seek professional appraisal: Only a grading service can verify authenticity and grade.
Grading Services and Contact Information
Below are the most reliable coin grading services in the U.S. You should contact them if you believe you have a valuable penny:
| Service Name | Website | Phone Number | Email Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCGS | www.pcgs.com | 1-800-447-8848 | [email protected] |
| NGC | www.ngccoin.com | 1-800-642-2646 | [email protected] |
| ANACS | www.anacs.com | 1-800-888-1861 | [email protected] |
| ICG | www.icgcoin.com | 1-877-221-4424 | [email protected] |
Other Valuable Wheat Pennies to Look Out For
Aside from the 1943 copper penny, there are other Lincoln Wheat Pennies worth hunting for:
- 1909-S VDB: The first Lincoln cent ever minted, rare and worth thousands.
- 1955 Double Die: A famously misprinted coin with doubling visible on the date and lettering.
- 1922 No D: Missing mint mark due to a worn die.
- 1931-S: Only 866,000 minted, making it scarce.
- 1914-D: Low mintage and high collector interest.
Where Can You Find These Pennies Today?
You don’t need to be a collector to stumble upon one of these coins. Here are common places where the rare Lincoln Wheat Penny might still be found:
- Old piggy banks or coin jars
- Inherited coin collections from relatives
- Pocket change (though rare)
- Estate sales or garage sales
- Antique stores or flea markets
- Bank coin rolls (coin roll hunting)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How can I know if my 1943 penny is valuable?
A: If it’s a 1943 penny and it doesn’t stick to a magnet, get it weighed and authenticated. You might be holding a rare copper version.
Q2. What’s the rarest Lincoln Wheat Penny?
A: The 1943 copper penny is considered one of the rarest and most valuable.
Q3. Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
A: No. Only the copper versions are valuable. Steel ones are common and worth very little.
Q4. How much is a 1909-S VDB penny worth?
A: In circulated condition, it can range from $700 to over $2,000. In mint condition, the value can exceed $5,000.
Q5. Can I sell my penny online?
A: Yes. Platforms like eBay, Heritage Auctions, or coin dealer websites can help you sell your rare coin.
Q6. Should I clean my old penny before selling it?
A: No. Cleaning can reduce a coin’s value drastically. Always sell it in its original state.
Q7. Where can I get coins professionally appraised?
A: Use recognized services like PCGS, NGC, or visit a certified local coin dealer.
Q8. How do I safely store rare coins?
A: Use coin holders, albums, or capsules. Avoid moisture and direct handling.
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a nostalgic piece of American history, but some versions are also a collector’s dream come true. The ultra-rare 1943 copper Lincoln penny, worth up to $43,000 or more, serves as a reminder that treasures might still lie in our everyday pockets. If you’ve got a stash of old coins or stumble upon a 1943 penny, take a moment—you might just strike gold.
