Imagine reaching into your pocket, pulling out a penny, and discovering it’s worth $45 million. It sounds like a fantasy, but it’s very real—if that penny happens to be the elusive 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny, one of the most legendary coins in American history. And believe it or not, some experts think a few could still be out there, hiding in plain sight.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
First minted in 1909 to commemorate President Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, the Lincoln Wheat Penny made history as the first U.S. coin to feature a real person. Designed by Victor D. Brenner, the obverse shows Lincoln’s profile, while the reverse features two wheat stalks surrounding the words “One Cent” and “United States of America.”
These coins were produced until 1958, and while most are only worth face value, a few extremely rare versions have become some of the most valuable coins ever minted.
Why Is the 1943 Copper Penny Worth $45 Million?
Let’s go back to World War II. In 1943, the U.S. Mint needed copper for the war effort—think bullets, shell casings, and electrical wiring. So they stopped making pennies from copper and began using zinc-coated steel instead. These new steel cents looked silver and were produced in huge quantities.
But by accident, a few leftover copper planchets (coin blanks) from 1942 were fed into the machines. This minting error resulted in a handful of 1943 Lincoln pennies being made in copper instead of steel.
Only a few of these copper 1943 pennies are known to exist, and because of their rarity and historical significance, they’re worth millions. In pristine condition, some have been estimated to be worth up to $45 million.
How to Spot a 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
Think you might have one of these golden tickets in your change jar? Here’s how to check:
Look at the Date
It must read 1943. Be careful—fakes exist, and some have been altered from 1948 or 1945 to appear as 1943.
Use a Magnet
Steel cents from 1943 are magnetic. A copper penny won’t stick to a magnet. This is a quick and easy test.
Check the Color
Copper pennies have a reddish-brown hue. Steel cents look gray or silver.
Verify It Professionally
If you think you’ve found the real deal, get it authenticated by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation). They’ll confirm its authenticity and grade its condition.
Could One Still Be in Circulation?
Yes, it’s possible—though highly unlikely. Some of these rare copper coins may have slipped through unnoticed and ended up in jars, drawers, or bank rolls. Others may have been passed down through families, sold at garage sales, or simply forgotten.
Every so often, someone discovers a rare coin in the most unexpected place. That’s why coin collectors and hobbyists continue to check every penny they come across.
Other Rare Lincoln Pennies to Watch For
Even if you don’t find the 1943 copper penny, there are a few other Lincoln Wheat Pennies that could be worth a small fortune:
1909-S VDB – The first Lincoln penny with the designer’s initials, minted in San Francisco. Worth over $100,000 in top condition.
1944 Steel Penny – A reverse error of the 1943 copper penny. A few steel coins were mistakenly made in 1944. Valued up to $1 million.
1955 Doubled Die Penny – Known for its striking double lettering, this mint error can fetch tens of thousands of dollars.
Final Thoughts
It’s mind-blowing to think that a tiny copper coin could be worth $45 million. The 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just pocket change—it’s a piece of American history, a collector’s dream, and potentially a life-changing discovery.
So next time you get a handful of coins back in change, don’t just toss them in a drawer. Take a closer look. That ordinary penny might just be the treasure of a lifetime.
FAQs
Q: How many 1943 copper pennies exist?
A: Fewer than 20 genuine examples are known, making it one of the rarest coins ever minted.
Q: How can I confirm if my 1943 penny is copper?
A: Try the magnet test—copper doesn’t stick. Then take it to a certified coin grading service for verification.
Q: Why are 1943 copper pennies so valuable?
A: They were created by mistake and are incredibly rare, making them highly desirable to collectors.
Q: Where should I look for rare coins?
A: Start with old jars, bank rolls, estate sales, flea markets, and even loose change in your home.
Q: What should I do if I find one?
A: Don’t spend it! Get it professionally graded and consider selling it through a trusted coin dealer or auction house.