Ever grabbed change and ignored the pennies? What if one of those tiny coins is actually worth more than your entire wallet? It’s true — a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny, still floating around in circulation, has been valued at a staggering $122,000.
That’s right — one small copper coin could be hiding in your pocket right now. Let’s break down what makes this penny so valuable and how you can spot one.
History
The Lincoln Wheat Penny made its debut in 1909 and was minted until 1958. It features Abraham Lincoln on the front (obverse) and two stalks of wheat on the back (reverse), which is how it got its nickname. These pennies are beloved by coin collectors for their classic design and historical significance.
If you’ve ever spotted a penny with wheat on the back, you’ve seen one — but not all are valuable. The big money comes when rarity meets error.
Rarity
So, why would a penny be worth more than a luxury car? It all comes down to mint errors. A mint error happens when a coin is accidentally struck using the wrong materials or printing process.
The most famous — and most valuable — is the 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny. During World War II, copper was in high demand, so the U.S. Mint made pennies from steel. But a few copper blanks accidentally made their way into the minting machines. The result? A super rare coin that’s now worth six figures.
One of these 1943 copper pennies sold for $122,000, and collectors would love to find another. There might still be a few out there, waiting to be observed in someone’s change jar or old collection.
Identification
Wondering how to tell if you’ve struck copper gold? Here’s what to check:
| What to Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Year: 1943 | Most were steel, copper is rare and valuable |
| Material: Copper look | Use a magnet — steel sticks, copper doesn’t |
| Errors: Double print | Check for unusual letters or designs |
| Years: 1909–1958 | These are all Wheat Pennies — some are rare |
A copper-colored 1943 penny that doesn’t stick to a magnet? That’s a strong candidate. Also look for coins with double dies (printing errors), missing letters, or anything unusual — these can all increase value.
Finding
These pennies aren’t just locked away in museums or collector vaults. You can find them in:
- Your old piggy bank
- Coin jars at home
- Pockets or purses of older relatives
- Antique stores and flea markets
- Local shop change or garage sale finds
It’s wild how often people overlook these coins — many don’t even realize they’re rare and valuable.
Action
So what should you do if you find one?
- Don’t spend it — no matter what.
- Use a magnet to check if it’s copper or steel.
- Compare it online with images of known rare coins.
- Visit a coin shop or show it to a certified appraiser.
- If it’s the real deal, you can sell it via auction or collector platforms.
These coins are more than just metal — they’re tiny, portable treasures. A coin worth $122,000 may be sitting in an old drawer right now, and it only takes a few seconds to check.
The next time you get change, don’t ignore those pennies. That little coin could change your fortune. After all, in the world of coin collecting, every cent counts — sometimes way more than you’d expect.
FAQs
What is a 1943 copper penny worth?
It can be worth over $122,000 depending on condition.
How do I test if my penny is copper?
Use a magnet—steel sticks, copper doesn’t.
Where can I find rare pennies?
Look in old jars, purses, or vintage coin collections.
Are all wheat pennies valuable?
Not all, but many from 1909–1958 can be collectible.
What should I do if I find one?
Get it appraised by a coin expert before selling.
