A penny usually isn’t something we think twice about. But what if that tiny coin in your wallet could be worth more than ₹36 crore? That’s the case with one incredibly rare Lincoln Wheat Penny, now valued at $4.4 million. What’s even more surprising? Experts believe it might still be in circulation, hiding in someone’s pocket change, jar, or old drawer.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, also called the Wheat Cent, was minted in the U.S. from 1909 to 1958. It was the first American coin to feature a real person—President Abraham Lincoln. The back of the coin had two wheat stalks, which gave it its nickname.
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Although most of these pennies are still common, one particular version from the year 1943 is extremely rare and now worth millions.
Why Is This 1943 Penny Worth $4.4 Million?
In 1943, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to steel for making pennies to save copper for World War II efforts. But by mistake, a few copper blanks were still used in that year’s production. This accidental minting created one of the rarest coins in U.S. history—the 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny.
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Only about 15 to 20 of these copper pennies are known to exist. Because they were never meant to be made, they have become a dream find for coin collectors. One of them has recently been valued at $4.4 million, making it one of the most expensive pennies ever recorded.
How to Spot the Rare 1943 Copper Penny
Think you might have one? Here’s how you can check:
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- Date: The coin must be from 1943
- Colour: It should look coppery brown, not silvery grey like the steel ones
- Magnet Test: If it sticks to a magnet, it’s a common steel penny. If not, it could be the rare copper version
- Get it Verified: If you suspect it’s rare, get it authenticated by a coin expert
Is It Really Still in Circulation?
Yes, it’s possible! Over the years, these rare coins could have been forgotten, kept in coin jars, or passed along as regular change. That means someone, somewhere, might still unknowingly have a $4.4 million penny in their collection or wallet.
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The idea of finding a Lincoln Wheat Penny worth $4.4 million might sound like something out of a movie, but it’s very real. It shows us that sometimes, valuable things come in the smallest packages. So, next time you find a 1943 penny, don’t toss it aside—it could change your life. Keep your eyes open; your luck might be just a coin away.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny worth $4.4 million?
The 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny is worth $4.4 million because it was mistakenly made with copper instead of steel during World War II. Only a small number of these rare coins were produced, making them extremely valuable to collectors.
How do I identify a rare 1943 copper Lincoln penny?
Look for the 1943 date and a copper colour. If the coin doesn’t stick to a magnet, it could be copper. Steel pennies will stick. For confirmation, have it checked by a coin expert.
Is the $4.4 million penny still in circulation?
Yes, some of these rare 1943 copper pennies may still be in circulation or stored away unknowingly in homes, coin jars, or collections.
Can I sell a 1943 copper penny if I find one?
Absolutely. But first, you’ll need to get it professionally authenticated. Once verified, you can sell it through coin dealers or auctions where collectors are willing to pay a premium.
Why were most 1943 pennies made with steel instead of copper?
During World War II, the U.S. Mint used steel for pennies to conserve copper for military production. A few copper blanks were mistakenly used, creating the rare 1943 copper pennies.
I have 1943 wheat steel penny that sticks to the magnet.
Hello , My name is Kenneth. I live at Myanmar.
I wanna sell That coins, How to contact.
Do you want the penny that sticks or don’t stick
Sticks
They are referring to the copper one being worth money. So it would NOT stick to a magnet.
I have quite a few of them. What am I looking for that wood make it valuable?
I have wheat penny doesn’t stick to magnet 631-220-6646
I have one like that one
I have one like that one my don’t stick to the magnet
And also have a dime whit everything in front but nothing on the back
I have a 1943 n other pennies but I don’t have anyone to grade my pennies where I live. Anyone willing to help and get in contact with me.
Hello Amanda Lavallee,
You can find the dealers according to your area from here: https://coin-dealer-directory.money.org/
I have (2) 1943 steel pennies. I would like to get appraised. They stick to a magnet. They are in good shape. I also have 2 buffalo head nickels one has no date the other one has half of the date. And a handful of wheat pennies. The oldest one I have is a 1916 penny
ok Dawn
I think the 1943 penny should not stick to be made of copper .
I have one
Where can you sell these Penny’s
Hello Karen Kinserlow,
You can send your pennies here: https://coin-dealer-directory.money.org/
I have 1909
Call me at 720 297-1868 ok I have 1944 1943
I have 2 I
I Have 2 Wheat Pennies They Stick To The Magnet
I have a 1978
1991
1989
1975
1994
1993
1979
1976
1983 pennies but I don’t have anyone to grade my pennies where I live. Anyone willing to help and get in contact with me.
Sure we will help you
I have Two of them
Sliver pennie
I think the 1943 penny should not stick to be made of copper .
Tengo varias la del 39 29 41 44 45
I have a 1942 wheat penny, my name is Richard