Imagine reaching into your pocket and pulling out a penny worth $13 million. Sounds too good to be true, right? But believe it or not, a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny has sold for that amount — and experts say there could still be more out there in circulation.
What Makes This Penny So Valuable?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was minted from 1909 to 1958 and features two wheat stalks on the back, which is why it’s called the “Wheat Penny.” While most of these old pennies are only worth a few cents, one version stands out: the 1943 Copper Penny.
Why Is the 1943 Copper Penny So Rare?
During World War II, copper was needed for war materials, so the U.S. Mint made pennies out of steel instead. But by mistake, a few copper blanks were used to strike 1943 pennies.
Only 10 to 20 of these copper coins are known to exist — making them one of the rarest and most valuable coins in U.S. history.
One of them sold for $1.7 million in 2010.
Another reportedly sold for $13 million in a private sale.
Could You Still Find One Today?
It’s rare, but it has happened. People have discovered valuable Wheat Pennies in:
- Old piggy banks
- Inherited coin collections
- Spare change from a store or gas station
So, yes — it’s possible one could still be out there waiting to be found.
How to Spot a Rare 1943 Copper Penny
Here’s what to check:
- Date: Look for 1943 on the front.
- Color: Copper pennies are brown; the common steel version looks silver.
- Magnet Test: If it sticks to a magnet, it’s steel. If not, it could be copper.
- Errors: Look for doubled numbers, missing mint marks, or misprints.
Found One? Here’s What to Do
- Don’t clean it! Cleaning can scratch the surface and lower its value.
- Get it authenticated by experts like PCGS or NGC.
- If it’s real, consider auctioning it through a trusted coin dealer or auction house.
Final Thoughts
Finding a $13 million penny sounds like something out of a movie — but it’s real. While your chances are slim, it doesn’t hurt to check your coins. That ordinary-looking penny in your drawer just might be a hidden fortune waiting to be discovered.