Imagine reaching into your pocket for some loose change and pulling out a penny—only to find out it’s worth a whopping $45 million. Sounds unbelievable, right? But that’s exactly the kind of wild, real-life story that’s made the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny one of the most talked-about coins in the history of U.S. collecting.
This tiny copper coin has captured the imagination of collectors and everyday treasure hunters alike. So what makes this penny so extraordinary? And is there still a chance you could stumble upon one? Let’s break it down.
The Backstory: A Coin Born Out of History
The Lincoln Wheat Penny made its debut in 1909, created to honor the 100th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it was the first U.S. coin to feature a real historical figure. The front shows Lincoln’s profile, while the back is decorated with two wheat stalks—symbolizing prosperity and hard work, classic American values.
This iconic design stuck around until 1958, when the U.S. Mint switched to the Lincoln Memorial reverse. And while most Wheat Pennies are still worth just a cent today, a few rare versions have become priceless artifacts.
Why Is the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny So Valuable?
Here’s where it gets interesting.
During World War II, copper was needed for the war effort—to make shell casings, wiring, and other critical supplies. So in 1943, the U.S. Mint decided to switch things up and produce pennies using zinc-coated steel instead of copper.
But somehow, a few copper planchets from 1942 got left in the minting machines. These copper blanks were accidentally used to strike a small number of 1943 Lincoln Wheat Pennies—and just like that, a rare coin was born.
Because this was a mistake, only a handful of these copper 1943 pennies exist. And that insane level of rarity? It’s what makes them worth millions. One of these elusive coins has been valued at $45 million, making it one of the most valuable coins in the world.
Think You’ve Found One? Here’s How to Tell
If your curiosity is piqued and you’re suddenly eyeballing every penny you come across, you’re not alone. Here’s how to quickly check if you’ve got a rare 1943 copper penny on your hands:
- Look at the Date – It should read 1943 on the front.
- Use a Magnet – Steel pennies will stick to a magnet. Copper ones won’t. If your 1943 penny doesn’t stick, it might be something special.
- Check the Color – Copper pennies have a reddish-brown tone, while steel ones look silvery or gray.
- Get an Expert Opinion – Don’t jump to conclusions. If you suspect you’ve found a 1943 copper penny, have it verified by a professional coin appraiser or grading service. Authenticating it is key to determining its real value.
Is It Still Possible to Find One?
You might be wondering—is there really a chance I could find one of these in circulation today?
Believe it or not, yes. Rare coins do slip through the cracks. Over the years, people have unknowingly spent or stored these pennies in old jars, piggy banks, or collections. That’s why seasoned collectors often say: always check your change. That unassuming penny at the bottom of your purse or between your car seats might be worth more than your entire savings account.
Other Valuable Wheat Pennies to Watch For
Even if the $45 million dream penny doesn’t show up, there are other Lincoln Wheat Pennies that can still put a smile on your face (and possibly some cash in your pocket). Here are a few to keep an eye out for:
- 1909-S VDB Penny – The first year of the Lincoln Wheat Penny, with the designer’s initials and limited mintage from San Francisco. Worth thousands.
- 1955 Double Die Penny – Known for its bold double lettering caused by a minting error. A collector favorite.
- 1944 Steel Penny – The opposite of the 1943 copper penny, this one was mistakenly made from leftover steel blanks and is also extremely rare.
Final Thoughts
The story of the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of the most exciting legends in American coin collecting. It’s a reminder that even the most ordinary-looking things—like a penny—can hold extraordinary value. While finding a $45 million penny is rare, it’s not impossible. And that possibility is exactly what keeps collectors and casual enthusiasts checking their change with wide eyes and hopeful hearts.
So the next time you get a handful of coins back at the store, don’t just shove them in your pocket. Take a moment. Flip through them. You never know—you might just find a piece of history worth millions.