A rare Lincoln Wheat Penny, estimated to be worth a staggering $12 million, is still believed to be in circulation. This has sparked a frenzy among coin collectors and the general public, with many checking their pocket change in hopes of discovering the hidden treasure. Could you be the lucky person to find this valuable coin?
What Makes This Penny So Valuable?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, originally minted from 1909 to 1958, is already a favorite among collectors. However, one particular variant stands out due to a minting error or rare composition, making it worth millions.
Experts believe that this rare penny is a 1943 bronze (copper) version, mistakenly produced when most pennies that year were struck in steel due to World War II. Only a few of these bronze coins were minted, and one of them is still unaccounted for, meaning it could still be in circulation today.
Why Is It Still in Circulation?
Despite its incredible value, this penny might be unknowingly used in everyday transactions. Many people are unaware of its worth and may have spent it as a regular one-cent coin. If the coin hasn’t been discovered by a collector, it could still be out there in someone’s change, waiting to be found.
How to Identify the $12 Million Penny
To check if you have this valuable coin, look for these key features:
- Year: The rare penny is from 1943 but made of copper instead of steel.
- Material: If your 1943 penny sticks to a magnet, it’s steel and not rare. A genuine copper version will not stick to a magnet.
- Weight: A copper 1943 penny weighs approximately 3.11 grams, whereas a steel penny weighs 2.7 grams.
- Mint Mark: The most valuable versions have no mint mark (Philadelphia), “D” (Denver), or “S” (San Francisco).
Where Could This Penny Be?
This multi-million dollar penny could be anywhere—in a cash register, a coin jar, or even in your own pocket. Many rare coins resurface in unexpected places, making it possible that an unsuspecting person might be holding onto it without realizing its true value.
What Should You Do If You Find It?
If you think you’ve found this rare Lincoln Wheat Penny, follow these steps:
- Do Not Spend It – Even though it looks like a regular penny, it’s worth millions!
- Verify Its Authenticity – Have it checked by a professional coin grading service such as PCGS or NGC.
- Auction It – If confirmed as genuine, you could sell it at an auction, where collectors are willing to pay top dollar for rare coins.
Other Rare Pennies Worth Checking For
While the 1943 copper penny is the most valuable, other pennies can also fetch high prices, including:
- 1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny – Valued at over $100,000.
- 1944 Steel Penny – Worth up to $1 million.
- 1955 Double Die Penny – Can sell for thousands of dollars due to a minting error.
Final Thoughts
The idea that a $12 million penny is still in circulation has captivated the public, leading many to inspect their coins closely. Whether you’re a coin enthusiast or just someone curious about the possibility of striking it rich, checking your change might be worth the effort. Who knows? The next time you receive a penny as change, it might just be worth millions!
FAQ’s
What makes the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny so valuable?
The 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny is valuable because it was mistakenly minted in copper instead of steel. Only a few were made, making them extremely rare.
How can I check if my 1943 penny is rare?
Use a magnet. If your penny sticks, it’s steel and common. If it doesn’t, it might be a rare copper version worth millions.
Where can I sell a rare 1943 copper penny?
You can sell a rare 1943 copper penny at major auction houses, online marketplaces, or through professional coin dealers.
Are there other rare pennies worth money?
Yes, coins like the 1909-S VDB penny, the 1944 steel penny, and the 1955 double die penny can also be extremely valuable.
Is the $12 million penny really still in circulation?
Yes, experts believe at least one rare 1943 copper penny remains unaccounted for, meaning it could still be in everyday circulation.
