Imagine pulling a penny from your pocket and discovering it’s worth up to $770,000. Sounds far-fetched, right? But for collectors and lucky finders, that dream has become a reality. Rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies—especially the famous 1943 bronze version—are still turning up in everyday places like coin jars and pocket change.
This guide will help you spot one of these treasures, know why they’re valuable, and show you what to do if you think you’ve found a rare coin.
Overview
Here’s a quick look at the Lincoln Wheat Penny’s valuable varieties:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Most Valuable Penny | 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny – worth up to $770,000 |
| Common Rare Pennies | 1909-S VDB, 1955 Double Die, 1944 Steel Cent |
| Identification Tips | Use magnet, weigh the coin, check color & date |
| Value Factors | Rarity, demand, metal content, condition |
| Verification Services | PCGS, NGC, coin dealers |
History of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was introduced in 1909 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person and replaced the Indian Head cent.
- Obverse: Lincoln’s profile
- Reverse: Two wheat stalks with “ONE CENT”
- Minted: 1909–1958
- Mint Marks: No mark (Philadelphia), D (Denver), S (San Francisco)
Though billions were made, a few special versions are now worth big money due to errors, metal changes, or low production numbers.
Why Are Some Pennies Worth Thousands?
Some coins were made in small quantities or have printing mistakes. These factors increase their value drastically.
Changes in Metal Composition
- 1909–1942: Mostly copper
- 1943: Switched to zinc-coated steel to save copper during WWII
- 1944–1958: Back to copper, but a few 1944 pennies were mistakenly made with steel blanks
These composition quirks are why some coins, like the 1943 bronze and 1944 steel, are worth a fortune.
How to Identify
This penny is one of the rarest and most valuable coins ever found in everyday circulation.
Why It’s Valuable
- In 1943, the mint switched to steel.
- A few leftover bronze blanks from 1942 got used by mistake.
- These rare bronze pennies are now worth up to $770,000.
How to Check Your Penny
| Test | Bronze Penny | Steel Penny |
|---|---|---|
| Date | 1943 | 1943 |
| Magnet Test | Not magnetic | Magnetic |
| Weight | 3.11 grams | 2.7 grams |
| Color | Reddish-brown (like regular copper) | Silvery-gray (steel) |
If you suspect you have one, don’t clean it—get it verified immediately.
Where to Authenticate Your Coin
Take your penny to one of these trusted sources:
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
- Reputable local coin dealers
They’ll inspect and grade your coin, and potentially help you sell it.
1909-S VDB – $50,000+
- First Lincoln penny with designer Victor D. Brenner’s initials
- Rare because “VDB” was quickly removed
- Look for: S mint mark and “VDB” on the back bottom edge
1955 Double Die – $1,500 to $50,000
- Minting error doubled the lettering
- Look closely at “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” for visible doubling
1944 Steel Penny – $100,000+
- Meant to be copper again after 1943, but a few steel blanks were used
- A real 1944 steel penny will stick to a magnet, unlike the copper ones
Where to Search for Rare Pennies
You don’t need to be a coin dealer to stumble upon one of these treasures. Check:
- Spare change
- Coin jars
- Estate sales and flea markets
- Family coin collections
- Bank coin rolls
- eBay and collector auctions
Pro Tip:
Buy bank rolls of pennies and check each one. It’s cheap and fun—and you never know what you’ll find.
FAQs
How can I tell if I have a 1943 bronze penny?
Use a magnet—if it’s not magnetic and says 1943, it may be bronze.
What is a 1909-S VDB penny worth?
Depending on condition, it can be worth $50,000 or more.
Where can I get a rare penny verified?
Use PCGS, NGC, or a trusted local coin dealer.
Are steel pennies always valuable?
Only 1944 steel pennies are rare—most 1943 steel cents are common.
Should I clean an old penny before selling it?
No—cleaning can reduce its value. Leave it in original condition.
