Coin collectors and history enthusiasts are always excited about rare and valuable coins. One such coin that frequently grabs attention is the Lincoln Wheat Penny.
Some claims suggest that a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny is valued at a staggering $85,000 million ($85 billion), raising questions about whether such a penny actually exists and if it’s still in circulation. Let’s explore the truth behind this claim and what makes some Wheat Pennies so valuable.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, also called the Wheat Cent, was minted in the United States from 1909 to 1958. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person—President Abraham Lincoln—on the obverse (front), with two wheat stalks on the reverse (back), symbolizing prosperity.
Some Lincoln Wheat Pennies are extremely valuable due to their rarity, minting errors, and historical significance. However, the claim that one is worth $85,000 million needs careful examination.
What Makes Some Lincoln Wheat Pennies Valuable?
Several factors influence the value of a Lincoln Wheat Penny:
1. Rare Minting Errors
Coins with minting errors are highly desirable among collectors. Some well-known errors include:
- 1955 Double Die Penny – The lettering and date appear doubled due to a misalignment in the die.
- 1922 No D Penny – The Denver mint forgot to stamp the “D” mint mark.
- 1943 Bronze Penny – Mistakenly struck in bronze instead of steel during World War II.
2. Limited Mintage
Certain years had fewer pennies produced, making them rare. For example, the 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny had a very limited mintage and is one of the most sought-after Lincoln Pennies.
3. Condition and Grading
The better the condition of a coin, the higher its value. Coins graded MS (Mint State) 65 or higher by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) fetch premium prices.
4. Historical Importance
Pennies from the early 1900s, particularly those with unique features, hold significant historical value and attract serious collectors.
Is There a Lincoln Wheat Penny Worth $85,000 Million?
The idea of a Lincoln Wheat Penny being worth $85 billion is a hoax. No known coin in history has ever reached such a value. Even the most expensive coin ever sold, the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, was auctioned for $18.9 million—far below this exaggerated claim.
What Are the Most Valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies?
Here are some of the highest-selling Lincoln Wheat Pennies:
| Coin | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | $1,000 – $100,000+ |
| 1914-D | $2,000 – $100,000+ |
| 1922 No D Error | $5,000 – $100,000+ |
| 1943 Bronze Penny | $100,000 – $1.7 million |
| 1955 Double Die | $1,500 – $125,000+ |
The most expensive Lincoln Wheat Penny, the 1943 Bronze Penny, sold for $1.7 million. While this is an extraordinary amount for a penny, it is nowhere near $85,000 million.
Are Lincoln Wheat Pennies Still in Circulation?
Though Lincoln Wheat Pennies were last minted in 1958, some still appear in circulation. However, finding a rare Wheat Penny in everyday transactions is extremely rare. Most valuable specimens are held by collectors or stored in coin collections.
If you find a Lincoln Wheat Penny, check the mint year, mint mark, and condition—it might be worth more than a cent!
The Lincoln Wheat Penny remains one of the most collectible U.S. coins. While some editions, like the 1943 Bronze Penny, have fetched millions, the claim of an $85,000 million ($85 billion) Wheat Penny is a myth. However, valuable pennies do exist, and if you’re lucky enough to find one, it could still be worth a significant amount.
Always research your coins carefully and consider getting them appraised by a professional numismatist. Who knows? You might have a hidden treasure in your pocket change!
FAQ’s
Is there a Lincoln Wheat Penny worth $85,000 million?
No, this is a myth. No Lincoln Wheat Penny has ever been valued at $85,000 million. The highest-selling Lincoln Wheat Penny, the 1943 Bronze Penny, was auctioned for $1.7 million.
What is the most expensive Lincoln Wheat Penny ever sold?
The 1943 Bronze Penny is the most expensive Lincoln Wheat Penny, selling for $1.7 million due to its rarity and historical significance.
Can I still find a Lincoln Wheat Penny in circulation?
While possible, it’s extremely rare. Most valuable Wheat Pennies are held by collectors and not commonly found in everyday transactions.
How do I know if my Lincoln Wheat Penny is valuable?
Check the year, mint mark, and condition. Rare dates like 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, and error pennies such as the 1955 Double Die are highly valuable.
Where can I sell my rare Lincoln Wheat Penny?
You can sell rare pennies at coin shops, online auctions, or through certified numismatists who specialize in valuable coins.
I have a 1944 wheat penny. Is it worth anything
Yes it is worth it
I have a lot of wheat pennys that im trying to sell and haven’t appraised them