The Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of the most famous coins in U.S. history. First minted in 1909, this penny features Abraham Lincoln on the front and wheat stalks on the back. While most of these pennies are worth just a few cents, some rare versions are valued at millions of dollars. One such penny is rumored to be worth $13 million and may still be in circulation today.
Why Is This Penny So Valuable?
Certain Lincoln Wheat Pennies are rare due to mistakes made during their minting or because they were made with special materials. The most valuable pennies are usually from specific years, such as the 1943 copper penny or the 1909-S VDB penny. These rare versions were either mistakenly produced or had limited minting, making them highly desirable among collectors.
The Mystery of the $13 Million Penny
One of the rarest and most valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies is said to be worth an astonishing $13 million. This could be a 1943 copper penny, which was mistakenly struck in copper instead of steel. The U.S. Mint switched to steel pennies in 1943 due to World War II metal shortages, but a few copper pennies were accidentally made. Today, these rare coins are extremely valuable, with some selling for millions of dollars.
Is It Still in Circulation?
Many people believe that at least one of these ultra-rare pennies is still in everyday circulation. Since pennies are often overlooked or spent without much thought, it is possible that someone unknowingly has a fortune sitting in their pocket or coin jar. Experts suggest carefully checking older pennies, especially those from 1943, to see if they might be the rare copper version.
How to Identify a Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny
If you want to check your pennies for valuable ones, here are some key points to look for:
- Date and Material: The 1943 copper penny is made of copper instead of steel.
- Magnet Test: A steel penny will stick to a magnet, but a real 1943 copper penny will not.
- Mint Marks: Rare versions may have a small “S” or “D” mark below the date, indicating the mint location.
Conclusion
The possibility that a $13 million Lincoln Wheat Penny is still in circulation excites coin collectors and everyday people alike. Checking old pennies could lead to a life-changing discovery. If you come across a 1943 copper penny, it might be worth getting it appraised—you could be holding a small fortune in your hands!
Disclaimer: The prices mentioned for rare coins, including the Lincoln Wheat Penny, are not guaranteed and may not be entirely accurate due to market fluctuations and varying appraisals.