Lincoln Wheat Penny Valued at $83 Million – Most people don’t think twice about pennies, but what if one of them was worth $83 million? That’s exactly what has happened with a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny, making it one of the most valuable coins ever. Even more shocking, some of these pennies are still in circulation, meaning there’s a small chance you could find one in your loose change.
What is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was introduced in 1909 to celebrate the 100th birthday of Abraham Lincoln. It was designed by Victor David Brenner and became the first U.S. coin to feature a real person.
The front of the coin features Lincoln’s portrait, while the back shows two wheat stalks, representing prosperity and growth. This design was used until 1958, when it was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial Penny in 1959.
Most Lincoln Wheat Pennies are worth just a few cents, but a few rare versions can be worth millions.
Why is This Penny Worth So Much?
Not all Lincoln Wheat Pennies are valuable, but certain rare variations can be worth a fortune. The $83 million Lincoln Wheat Penny is believed to be a 1943 Bronze Penny, one of the rarest coins in history.
Here’s what makes it so special:
- In 1943, the U.S. Mint stopped using copper for pennies because copper was needed for World War II efforts. Instead, they made pennies from zinc-coated steel.
- By mistake, a few bronze (copper) pennies were struck that year.
- Only a handful of these bronze 1943 pennies exist, making them incredibly rare and valuable.
Collectors and coin experts consider these error coins to be among the most desirable in numismatic history. As time goes on and fewer of them are found, their value continues to skyrocket.
How to Identify the $83 Million Lincoln Wheat Penny
Think you might have one of these rare pennies? Here’s how to check:
- Date & Material – Look for a 1943 penny that has a copper color instead of the usual silver-colored steel.
- Magnet Test – A genuine 1943 Bronze Penny will not stick to a magnet. If it does, it’s a regular steel penny.
- Weight Check – A steel penny weighs 2.7 grams, while a bronze penny weighs 3.1 grams. A digital scale can help confirm this.
If your penny meets all these criteria, you could be looking at a multi-million-dollar treasure.
Can You Still Find This Penny?
Believe it or not, yes! Since these rare pennies were accidentally released into circulation, some could still be out there. You might find one in:
- Your pocket change
- Old piggy banks
- Coin rolls from the bank
- Estate sales or flea markets
- Family coin collections
While the odds are low, people have discovered rare coins in the past. So, it’s always worth checking your change before spending it.
What to Do If You Think You Have One
If you believe you’ve found a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny, follow these steps:
- Do Not Clean the Coin – Cleaning can actually lower its value, so leave it as it is.
- Get It Authenticated – Take it to a professional coin dealer or send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC.
- Sell It Through the Right Channels – If it’s real, you can auction it through reputable rare coin dealers or auction houses.
Final Thoughts
The idea that a tiny penny could be worth $83 million is mind-blowing, but it’s proof that rare coins can be hidden in plain sight. While it’s rare, it’s still possible to find one in everyday places. So next time you get a penny, take a closer look—you might just be holding one of the most valuable coins in history.
Disclaimer: The value of rare coins depends on factors like rarity, condition, and market demand. Always consult a professional before making buying or selling decisions.
