This Lincoln Wheat Penny Could Be Worth $150 Million – Still in Circulation!

Have you ever wondered if that old penny in your pocket could be worth a fortune? Believe it or not, some Lincoln Wheat Pennies are so rare that they’ve sold for millions of dollars—and one version is now valued at a jaw-dropping $150 million. And the best part? It might still be out there, in circulation!

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• Why some Lincoln Wheat Pennies are extremely valuable
• How to identify rare coins
• Where to sell them for top dollar
• How to store and protect them

What Makes the Lincoln Wheat Penny So Special?

First minted in 1909 to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, the Lincoln Wheat Penny was produced until 1958. It features Lincoln on the front and two wheat stalks on the back. Billions were made—but only a few have rare features that make them worth thousands, even millions.

Rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies That Can Make You Rich

Here are 5 rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies that collectors dream about:

1. 1943 Copper Penny – Worth Up to $1.7 Million

Most 1943 pennies were made of steel because copper was needed for World War II. But a few were mistakenly made from copper blanks.

Why it’s valuable:

• Only a few exist
• It was made by mistake
• One sold for $1.7 million in 2010

2. 1909-S VDB Penny

This was the first Lincoln cent ever made. The initials VDB (for designer Victor David Brenner) were quickly removed after public backlash, making this version very rare.

Why it’s valuable:

• Only 484,000 were minted
• High demand from collectors
• Clean, uncirculated versions can sell for hundreds of thousands

3. 1955 Double Die Penny

This famous error coin has doubled letters and numbers that are clearly visible.

Why it’s valuable:

• Striking visual error
• Around 24,000 entered circulation
• Well-preserved versions can sell for $50,000 or more

4. 1914-D Penny

Only 1.1 million were minted in Denver. It’s rare, especially in high-grade condition.

Why it’s valuable:

• Low mintage
• Great collector demand
• High-grade examples can fetch $3,000–$10,000+

5. 1922 “No D” Penny

In 1922, all Lincoln pennies were minted in Denver. But some were accidentally struck without the “D” mintmark, making this a favorite among error collectors.

Why it’s valuable:

• Rare error
• Scarce even in poor condition
• High-quality ones can sell for thousands

How to Spot a Rare Penny

Not sure if you have a valuable coin? Here’s how to check:

✅ Step 1: Look at the Date & Mintmark

Search for key years like 1909, 1914, 1922, 1943, and 1955. Look for mintmarks like “S” (San Francisco) or “D” (Denver).

✅ Step 2: Check for Errors

Look for things like:

• Doubled text or numbers
• Off-center designs
• Missing mintmarks

✅ Step 3: Examine the Condition

Coins in better condition are worth more. Look for coins with:

• No scratches
• Strong detail
• Original color and shine

✅ Step 4: Get a Professional Appraisal

If your penny looks promising, get it checked by a trusted grading company like:

• PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
• NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)

Where to Sell Rare Pennies

If you’ve got a valuable coin, here are your best selling options:

• Local Coin Dealers: Quick cash, but always get multiple offers.
• Online Auctions (eBay, Heritage Auctions): Reach global buyers.
• Coin Shows: Meet serious collectors face-to-face.
• Pawn Shops: Not ideal unless you’ve already had your coin appraised.

How to Protect Your Penny’s Value

To keep your valuable coin in top shape:

• Don’t clean it: Cleaning can scratch the surface and lower its value.
• Use protective cases: Store in coin holders or capsules.
• Keep it dry: Avoid moisture, humidity, and direct sunlight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts: Could You Be Holding $150 Million?

The Lincoln Wheat Penny might look like spare change—but some rare versions are worth more than luxury cars, homes, or even private islands. So before you spend that old penny, take a second look. It just might change your life.