Most people don’t pay much attention to spare change. A penny often seems too small to matter. But what if that tiny coin hiding in your wallet was worth more than a luxury mansion, a private jet—or even a tropical island?
It sounds like a wild rumor, but the buzz surrounding a specific Lincoln Wheat Penny valued at an eye-popping $150 million has sparked curiosity across the internet. Some call it a myth. Others believe it’s the real deal. But one thing is certain—rare coins can be worth a fortune, and the Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of the most legendary among them.
Why the Lincoln Wheat Penny Is So Famous
First minted in 1909, the Lincoln Wheat Penny was introduced to mark the 100th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person, and its reverse design featured two wheat stalks—hence the name.
Production continued until 1958, but during those decades, several unusual and rare variants were made, including error coins. And one of those mistakes might just be the most valuable penny ever created.
What Makes One 1943 Lincoln Penny Worth $150 Million?
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to steel to preserve copper for the war effort. So, all 1943 pennies were supposed to be made from steel with a zinc coating, giving them a silver appearance.
But a small handful of copper blanks were accidentally left in the machines. Those blanks were struck into pennies, creating the rare 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny. Fewer than 20 authentic examples are known to exist. Rumors suggest one perfect specimen may still be out there—and experts believe it could fetch up to $150 million due to its rarity and pristine condition.
Quick Facts About the Rare Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | Lincoln Wheat Penny |
| Estimated Value | $150 Million |
| Key Year | 1943 (copper version) |
| Notable Error | Minted in copper instead of steel |
| Circulation Possibility | Believed to still be in circulation |
Could It Really Be Hiding in Your Change?
It might seem unlikely that a multi-million-dollar coin could still be floating around, but it’s not impossible. People often overlook pennies, stash them in jars, or spend them without a second thought.
Unless you’re specifically looking, a copper 1943 penny might go completely unnoticed—it looks just like any other ordinary coin. That’s what makes this story so intriguing: a life-changing treasure could be sitting in someone’s drawer or coin jar right now.
How to Tell If You Have the $150 Million Penny
Curious if you’ve got a hidden gem in your collection? Here’s how to check:
- Look for the year: Focus on pennies marked 1943.
- Check the color: Steel pennies look silver. Copper ones have a typical reddish-brown hue.
- Use a magnet: Steel pennies stick to magnets. Copper ones won’t.
- Weigh it: A steel penny weighs around 2.7 grams, while a copper version weighs about 3.1 grams.
- Get it appraised: If your coin matches the signs, show it to a professional coin expert.
Important Tip: Never clean or scratch an old coin—its condition can dramatically affect the value.
Why Rare Coins Are a Big Deal
Coins like the Lincoln Wheat Penny are more than just old currency—they’re artifacts of American history. Each tells a story of its time, from wars and presidents to printing errors that turn pocket change into priceless collectibles.
For collectors, coins represent beauty, rarity, and a tangible link to the past. The Lincoln Wheat Penny checks every box, and that’s why it continues to spark fascination.
Other Valuable Lincoln Pennies Worth Checking
Even if you never find the $150 million penny, here are a few other Lincoln Wheat Pennies that could be worth hundreds or thousands:
- 1909-S VDB – Rare and highly collectible first-year issue.
- 1914-D – A tough find from the Denver Mint.
- 1922 “No D” – Missing its mint mark, making it highly unique.
- 1955 Double Die – Letters and numbers appear doubled.
Going through your change could turn into a profitable hobby.
Final Thoughts
A one-cent coin with a nine-figure value—it sounds like a fairy tale, but it’s rooted in real history. Whether this legendary 1943 copper penny worth $150 million is still out there or not, the thrill of the hunt lives on.
So next time you get change from the store or crack open an old piggy bank, take a second look. That little penny might just change your life.
FAQs
Q1: Which penny is said to be worth $150 million?
A1: A 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny that was mistakenly made from copper instead of steel.
Q2: How can I test if my 1943 penny is steel or copper?
A2: Use a magnet—steel sticks, copper doesn’t.
Q3: Why is the copper version so rare?
A3: It was a minting error during World War II, and only a few slipped through.
Q4: Is it possible that it’s still in circulation?
A4: Yes, experts believe at least one could still be hiding in someone’s spare change.
Q5: What should I do if I find one?
A5: Don’t clean it—get it evaluated by a trusted coin appraiser or numismatic expert.