Most pennies are worth just a cent—but a few rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies have helped push their total market value to a staggering $540 million. With minting errors, limited production, and historical significance, some of these coins are worth thousands—and one could be hiding in your change jar.
Let’s explore what makes these coins so special and how to spot one.
Quick Facts: Lincoln Wheat Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minted | 1909–1958 |
| Obverse | Abraham Lincoln’s profile |
| Reverse | Two wheat stalks |
| Most Valuable | 1943 Copper Penny (sold for up to $265,000) |
| Other Rarities | 1909-S VDB, 1922 No D, 1955 Doubled Die |
Why Are Some Worth Thousands?
1. The 1943 Copper Wheat Penny
During WWII, pennies were made of steel to save copper. A few copper ones were minted by mistake. They’re now worth up to $265,000.
2. Minting Errors
- 1955 Doubled Die: Doubled letters/numbers
- 1922 No D: Missing Denver mint mark
- Off-Center Strikes: Visual misalignment
3. Rare Dates
- 1909-S VDB: Only 484,000 made
- 1914-D & 1931-S: Low mintage, high demand
4. Coin Condition
- Red (RD): Mint-fresh, highest value
- Red-Brown (RB): Slight fade, still valuable
- Brown (BN): Lower value, still collectible
How to Spot a Rare Penny
✅ Check the Year: Look for 1909-S VDB, 1943 (copper), 1955, etc.
✅ Test with a Magnet: 1943 copper versions won’t stick.
✅ Check the Mint Mark: S = San Francisco, D = Denver, no mark = Philadelphia
✅ Look at Luster: Red coins are most valuable.
What to Do If You Find One
- Don’t clean it – this reduces value.
- Get it verified – by PCGS or NGC.
- Store it safely – in a coin holder or case.
- Consult a professional – before selling.
Top 2 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies
- 1943 Copper Penny: Rare error coin, sold for $265,000
- 1909-S VDB: Historic first edition, worth up to $175,000
FAQs
Q: How can I tell if my penny is rare?
Check the year, mint mark, and material. Look for known rarities and get it evaluated.
Q: Is cleaning my penny a good idea?
No. It can ruin the surface and lower its value.
Q: Can I still find rare Wheat Pennies in change?
Yes—especially the 1943 steel penny and 1955 doubled die.
Final Thoughts
The Lincoln Wheat Penny isn’t just pocket change—it could be a piece of history worth tens of thousands. With total values across the market reaching $540 million, these coins are still turning up in everyday places.
Check your change—you might just be holding a fortune.