A single penny could make you a multi-millionaire! The ultra-rare 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny, valued at up to $100 million in perfect condition, has collectors buzzing with excitement. This coin, born from a rare minting mistake during World War II, is one of the most sought-after treasures in the world. Even more thrilling, there’s a chance one could still be out there in your pocket change or an old jar. Here’s the story of this incredible penny and how to spot it.
A Coin from a Wartime Mix-Up
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, first minted in 1909 to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, features his portrait on the front and two wheat stalks on the back. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it was made until 1958. In 1943, during World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to zinc-coated steel pennies to save copper for the war effort. But a few copper blanks from 1942 were accidentally used, creating the rare 1943 Bronze Penny. With only about 15–20 known to exist, this error coin is a collector’s holy grail.
Why It’s Worth a Fortune
The 1943 Bronze Penny’s value comes from its extreme rarity and unique history. Only a handful were made at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mints, with the Denver “D” version being the rarest—possibly just one exists. In 2010, a 1943-D Bronze Penny sold for $1.7 million, but experts say a pristine one could fetch $100 million today due to its scarcity and demand. Its copper shine stands out against common 1943 steel pennies, making it a standout for collectors.
| Key Details of the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny | |
|---|---|
| Year Minted | 1943 |
| Mint Locations | Philadelphia, Denver (D), San Francisco (S) |
| Material | Bronze (Copper) |
| Estimated Top Value | $100 Million |
| Known Examples | ~15–20 |
Could It Still Be in Circulation?
Amazingly, some 1943 Bronze Pennies might still be out there. Since they look similar to regular pennies, they could have been spent or tucked away without notice. In 1947, a teenager found one in his school cafeteria change, later valued at thousands. Another was discovered in a coin roll in 1981, worth over $100,000. These stories keep hope alive that one could be hiding in a cash register, old collection, or your spare change. The key is knowing what to look for.
- Check the year: Look for “1943” on the front.
- Test with a magnet: Steel pennies stick; bronze ones don’t.
- Look for mint marks: A “D” or “S” under the year could mean big money.
- Check condition: A shiny, unworn penny is worth more.
- Compare color: Bronze pennies are coppery, not silvery like steel ones.
How to Find and Cash In “[Your Guide to Spotting the $100 Million Penny]”
Start your treasure hunt by checking old coin jars, family collections, or change from small shops. Use a magnet to test 1943 pennies—bronze ones won’t stick. If you find a promising coin, don’t clean it; cleaning ruins its value. Take it to a trusted coin dealer or grading service like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) to verify it. Auction houses like Heritage Auctions can help sell a rare find for top dollar, even if it’s worn.
A Penny That Could Change Your Life
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just a coin—it’s a piece of wartime history that could make you rich. Its incredible value and the chance it’s still in circulation have sparked a nationwide treasure hunt. While a $100 million penny is a long shot, even a worn one could be worth thousands. Next time you get change or sort through old coins, take a closer look—you might just find a tiny fortune waiting to be discovered
