A single penny could change your life! The rare 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny, worth up to $100,000 or more, might still be hiding in your coin jar or pocket change. This tiny coin, minted by mistake during World War II, has collectors buzzing and regular folks checking their coins. Written in simple language, this article explains why this penny is so valuable, how to spot it, and what to do if you find one. Grab your coins and let’s dive in!
Why Is This Penny So Special?
Back in 1943, the U.S. Mint switched to making pennies from zinc-coated steel to save copper for the war effort. By accident, a few copper pennies were made instead, creating one of the rarest coins ever. Fewer than 20 of these 1943 copper pennies are known to exist, making them super valuable. One sold for $1.7 million in 2010, and even less perfect ones can fetch $100,000 or more, depending on their condition.
- Only a few 1943 copper pennies were minted by mistake.
- Most 1943 pennies are steel and worth just a few cents.
- The copper version is reddish-brown, not silver-gray like steel.
This error makes the 1943 copper penny a dream find for coin hunters across the USA.
How to Spot the Real Deal
Finding a $100,000 penny is easier than you think, but you need to know what to look for. First, check the date on your penny—it must say “1943.” Next, look at the color. Steel pennies are silver-gray, while the rare copper ones are reddish-brown. A quick trick: use a magnet. Steel pennies stick to magnets, but copper ones don’t. Also, check for a mint mark like “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) under the date, as these can add value.
| Feature | Rare 1943 Copper Penny | Common 1943 Steel Penny |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Reddish-brown | Silver-gray |
| Magnet Test | Doesn’t stick | Sticks to magnet |
| Value (Mint State) | $100,000–$2 million | A few cents |
Be careful—some scammers alter 1948 pennies to look like 1943. If you think you’ve got a winner, don’t clean it, as that can lower its value.
Where to Look for It
The best part? These rare pennies might still be out there in circulation. Check your loose change, old piggy banks, or coin rolls from the bank. You could also look through family coin collections or ask grandparents if they saved pennies from the 1940s. Coin experts say pennies stay in circulation for about 30 years, so while most 1943 copper pennies are likely with collectors, a few could still pop up in everyday change.
- Dig through coin jars or spare change at home.
- Ask family members for old coins from the 1940s.
- Check with local banks for penny rolls to search.
Even if you don’t find a 1943 copper penny, other Lincoln Wheat Pennies, like the 1955 Double Die or 1909-S VDB, can be worth thousands.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve found a 1943 copper penny, don’t spend it! Take it to a trusted coin dealer or professional grading service like PCGS or NGC to verify it’s real. Authentication is key, as fakes are common. A certified coin in good condition could sell for $100,000 or more at auction. Even a worn one might fetch a hefty sum. Keep it safe and avoid handling it too much to preserve its value.
- Get it checked by a professional coin grader.
- Store it in a safe place, like a coin holder.
- Contact an auction house if it’s authentic.
A real 1943 copper penny could be your ticket to a big payday.
Keep Hunting for Treasure
The hunt for a $100,000 Lincoln Wheat Penny is fun and exciting, whether you’re a coin collector or just curious. With only a few of these rare coins still out there, checking your change could lead to a life-changing find. Grab a magnifying glass, start looking through your pennies, and share the news with friends. Who knows? That dusty penny in your drawer might just be worth a fortune