Rare 1976 Bicentennial Quarters: The Lincoln Wheat Penny, also known as the Wheat Cent, first appeared in 1909 to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday. It was a big deal as the first U.S. coin to feature a real person—a former president—instead of symbols like Liberty. This penny became a household staple for decades.
Design That Stands Out
Created by artist Victor David Brenner, the coin shows Lincoln’s face looking right on the front. Above him, “IN GOD WE TRUST” curves neatly. To the left is “LIBERTY,” and the year sits below. A small letter like “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) might appear under the date, showing where it was minted. No letter means it came from Philadelphia. The back has two wheat stalks framing “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” earning its “Wheat” nickname.
Most Wheat Pennies were 95% copper, giving them a bright red shine when new. In 1943, World War II led to a copper shortage, so pennies were made from steel coated with zinc. A few copper pennies were accidentally minted that year, and those rare mistakes are now worth a fortune.
A Coin’s Life Through History
From 1909 to 1958, mints in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco produced over 20 billion Wheat Pennies. They circulated during exciting times like the 1920s, tough times like the Great Depression, and the post-war boom. Many still turn up in old jars, bank rolls, or even store change. Most are worth just a cent, but some can fetch thousands or millions.
Why Is the 1943 Penny So Valuable?
While most Wheat Pennies are worth their face value—one cent—certain ones, especially from 1943, can sell for huge sums like $1.8 million. Value depends on rarity, condition, and minting errors. Experts grade coins from 1 to 70, with 70 being perfect. Better condition means bigger bucks.
What Makes a Penny Priceless?
Here’s why some 1943 Wheat Pennies are so special:
- Super Rare Errors: In 1943, pennies were supposed to be steel, but a few copper ones were made by mistake. These are incredibly scarce.
- Low Production: Some years, like 1943, had fewer coins minted at certain locations, especially San Francisco or Denver.
- Great Shape: Coins that look brand new, with bright red copper color, are worth more. Worn or brown ones are less valuable.
- Collector Demand: Rare coins tied to history, like wartime errors, attract buyers worldwide.
The 1943 copper penny is the star because so few exist, driving its value sky-high.
The $1.8 Million Penny Story: Truth or Hype?
A popular story claims someone found a 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny in their change, selling it for $1.8 million. It’s a thrilling tale, but the real record is close: a 1943-D copper penny sold for $2.3 million in 2010 after being found in a boy’s lunch money. These rare coins, made by mistake when steel was the norm, are collector gold. Other 1943 copper pennies have sold for $200,000 to $1.7 million, depending on condition. While $1.8 million is possible, always check such stories against verified auction records to avoid falling for online exaggerations.
Top Valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies to Watch For
The 1943 copper penny isn’t the only treasure. Here are other Wheat Pennies collectors seek, based on real sales.
Must-Know Rare Coins
- 1943 Bronze: A copper penny made by mistake during the steel year. One sold for $2.3 million.
- 1909-S VDB: Has the designer’s full initials, stopped early due to controversy. Top sales hit $336,000.
- 1955 Doubled Die: Letters and numbers appear doubled from a mint error. A pristine one fetched $168,000.
- 1914-D: Very few were made, making it rare. One sold for $158,000.
- 1922 No D: The Denver mint mark is missing or faint. Values reach $40,000.
- 1931-S: Minted during the Depression, only about a million exist. Good ones hit $20,000.
These coins show how errors and scarcity boost value.
Auction Price Table: Top Sales
This table lists recent high sales from trusted auctions. Prices vary, so get coins appraised by experts.
| Coin Variety | Why It’s Special | Mint Mark | Highest Sale Price | Year of Sale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Bronze | Copper used by mistake | D | $2.3 million | 2010 |
| 1909-S VDB | Designer’s initials issue | S | $336,000 | 2022 |
| 1955 Doubled Die | Doubled text error | None | $168,000 | 2022 |
| 1914-D | Low mintage | D | $158,000 | 2018 |
| 1922 No D | Missing mint mark | None | $40,000 | 2023 |
| 1931-S | Scarce Depression-era coin | S | $20,000 | 2024 |
How to Find a 1943 Penny in Your Change
With billions of Wheat Pennies out there, a valuable one could be in your wallet or a store’s till. Here’s how to hunt for them.
Simple Spotting Tips
- Check the Year: Focus on 1943, but also look for 1909-1918, 1922, 1931, or 1955 for other rarities.
- Test for Copper: A 1943 penny should be steel and stick to a magnet. Copper ones (3.1 grams, non-magnetic) are the rare ones.
- Look for Mint Marks: A “D” or “S” with a key date is promising.
- Check Condition: Bright, unworn coins are best. Avoid scratched or dull ones.
- Spot Errors: Look for doubled text or other oddities, especially on 1943 coins.
Get penny rolls from banks for 50 cents each, check old family stashes, or visit flea markets. Apps like PCGS CoinFacts can help identify coins, but always consult a professional for valuable finds.
Getting Started with Coin Collecting
New to the hobby? Collecting Wheat Pennies is fun and can pay off. Here’s how to begin.
Easy Steps for Beginners
- Handle Carefully: Use soft cotton gloves to avoid scratches or fingerprints.
- Store Safely: Keep coins in plastic holders, not loose in jars. Never clean them—it lowers value.
- Get It Graded: Services like PCGS or NGC rate your coin, increasing its worth by 20-50%.
- Sell Smart: Local coin shops offer quick cash, eBay works for common coins, and auctions like Heritage are best for rarities.
- Join Collectors: Online groups like Reddit’s r/coins or local clubs share tips and help avoid scams.
Collecting is a great way to connect with history, even if you don’t find a million-dollar penny.
Conclusion: Your Pocket Change Could Be a Goldmine
The $1.8 million 1943 copper penny story captures the imagination, and real sales like the $2.3 million 1943-D prove rare coins can change lives. Lincoln Wheat Pennies carry stories of wartime sacrifices and American history. Grab a magnifying glass, check your change, and start your treasure hunt. A single penny could spark your fortune!
FAQ: Your 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny Questions Answered
Is the $1.8 million 1943 penny story real?
It’s close but not exact. A 1943-D copper penny sold for $-calendar year. Always verify big claims with auction records.
Why is the 1943 copper penny so valuable?
It was a mistake—pennies that year were supposed to be steel. Only a few copper ones exist, making them super rare.
How do I know if my 1943 penny is copper?
Weigh it (3.1 grams) and test with a magnet. Copper pennies don’t stick; steel ones do.
Can I still find a 1943 copper penny in change?
Yes, though rare, they’ve been found in circulation, like in lunch money or bank rolls.
How should I start collecting Wheat Pennies?
Buy penny rolls, learn key dates, store coins safely, and join collector groups for tips.
What’s the best way to sell a rare 1943 penny?
Get it graded by PCGS or NGC, then compare offers from coin shops, eBay, or auctions.