Lincoln Wheat Penny : What if that old penny in your drawer or change jar was actually worth $1.7 million? It’s not just a fantasy—it’s a real possibility. A rare Lincoln Wheat penny, valued at an eye-popping $1.7 million, has stunned collectors and sparked a renewed interest in hunting through old coins. Even more surprising? Experts believe this rare coin might still be in circulation.
What Is the $1.7 Million Lincoln Penny?
The penny in question is a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Cent, one of the most famous and valuable error coins in U.S. history. During World War II, the U.S. Mint shifted from using copper to zinc-coated steel for pennies to conserve copper for ammunition and military needs.
However, a small number of bronze blanks—left over from 1942—were accidentally struck in 1943. The result? A few 1943 pennies made from bronze, not steel. These coins were never meant to exist and were minted in extremely limited quantities, making them incredibly rare.
Why Is It Worth $1.7 Million?
The coin’s value stems from:
- Rarity – Fewer than 20 authentic 1943 bronze pennies are known to exist.
- Historical significance – It’s a wartime minting error with a unique story.
- Collector demand – Wealthy collectors are willing to pay top dollar for it.
- Condition – Well-preserved, high-grade examples can command massive premiums at auction.
One of the finest examples ever discovered sold for $1.7 million, setting a new standard in the numismatic market.
Could It Still Be Out There?
Yes—and that’s the exciting part. Over the years, several of these rare coins have been found in pocket change, old jars, and inherited coin collections. Experts believe there may still be a few undiscovered 1943 bronze cents out there—possibly tucked away in attics, basements, or even circulation.
How to Spot a $1.7 Million Penny
If you want to check your change or collection, here’s what to look for:
- Date: 1943
- Material: Should look reddish-brown like copper, not silver-colored like steel
- Mint Mark: May show a “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco), but some have none
- Magnet Test: Steel sticks to a magnet, bronze does not
- Weight: Bronze pennies weigh about 3.11 grams; steel pennies weigh about 2.7 grams
If your 1943 penny passes these tests, it could be a once-in-a-lifetime discovery.
What to Do If You Think You Have One
- Do not clean or polish it – cleaning can ruin its value.
- Place it in a protective sleeve or coin holder.
- Get it authenticated by a trusted coin grading service like PCGS or NGC.
- Consult a reputable coin dealer or auction house for valuation and potential sale.
Final Thoughts
The story of the $1.7 million Lincoln Wheat Penny is a reminder that small things can hold big value, especially when tied to history. Whether in your coin jar, wallet, or tucked away in an old collection, it’s worth taking a second look at every 1943 penny you come across.
FAQs The Lincoln Wheat Penny Valued at $1.7 Million, Still in Circulation?
Why is the 1943 Lincoln Wheat penny worth $1.7 million?
It was mistakenly struck in bronze during a year when all pennies were supposed to be made of steel for the war effort. Fewer than 20 are known to exist, making it extremely rare and valuable.
How can I identify the rare 1943 bronze penny?
Look for a 1943 date on a penny that is copper-colored, non-magnetic, and weighs about 3.11 grams. A steel version will be silver-colored and stick to a magnet.
Could this rare penny still be in circulation?
Yes. A few have been found in pocket change or old coin jars, and experts believe others could still be undiscovered.
What should I do if I think I found one?
Handle it carefully, don’t clean it, and store it safely. Then contact a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC for authentication.
Because the next person to stumble upon one of these rare coins could turn a single cent into a life-changing sum.