Most of us don’t think twice about the pennies we get back in change. They usually end up forgotten in jars, car cup holders, or kitchen drawers. But it turns out, some of those pennies—especially older ones—might be worth a small fortune. One rare version of the Lincoln Wheat Penny, for example, sold for over $500,000, and believe it or not, a few of these valuable coins are still out there in everyday circulation.
The Lincoln Wheat Penny has a long, rich history dating back to 1909. It was the first American coin to feature a real person—President Abraham Lincoln—rather than a symbolic figure. Over the years, several versions of this coin have become incredibly rare and valuable, especially a unique copper version from 1943 that was accidentally made during World War II. Other older pennies, like the 1909-S VDB and the 1955 double die, also have collectors shelling out big money.
Even if you’re not a seasoned coin collector, there’s still a chance you could spot one of these gems just by checking your change. Knowing what to look for—like specific years, mint marks, and unusual materials—can make all the difference. And if you do find something special, getting it checked out by a professional could turn your dusty old penny into a serious payday.
The Lincoln Wheat Penny
We’ve all had that moment when we scoop up some coins and think nothing of it. But those old, copper-colored pennies might be more than just a leftover from lunch. The Lincoln Wheat Penny, in particular, holds a special place in American coin history—and in rare cases, they’re worth a lot more than one cent.
The Lincoln Wheat Penny first appeared in 1909 to celebrate 100 years since Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It was groundbreaking at the time, being the first U.S. coin to feature a real person’s face instead of a made-up figure like Lady Liberty. Victor David Brenner designed Lincoln’s profile, which still appears on today’s pennies.
The back of the original penny featured two wheat stalks surrounding the words “One Cent” and “United States of America.” That design stuck around until 1958, after which the Lincoln Memorial took its place.
The Famous 1943 Copper Penny
During World War II, copper was in high demand for military use. So in 1943, the U.S. Mint made pennies out of steel coated in zinc. But due to a mix-up, a small batch of 1943 pennies were accidentally made using leftover copper blanks from the previous year.
Only about 20 of these rare copper 1943 pennies are known to exist, and they’ve become legends among collectors. If you ever happen to find one, it could fetch as much as $510,000 at auction, depending on its condition. Their insane value comes from both their rarity and the fascinating story behind how they were made by mistake.
Other Lincoln Pennies That Could Make You Rich
While the 1943 copper penny is the superstar, it’s not the only valuable one out there. Here are a few others that collectors are always on the lookout for:
- 1909-S VDB: This version was made in San Francisco and includes the designer’s initials, “VDB,” on the back. People didn’t like how prominent the initials were, so production was cut short. That makes this penny quite rare—and very valuable.
- 1914-D: Minted in Denver, it’s tough to find this one in good condition, which drives up its price.
- 1922 Plain: This penny doesn’t have a mint mark due to a worn-out die. That minting flaw has made it valuable over the years.
- 1955 Double Die: A well-known error coin where the date and lettering appear doubled. It’s easy to spot and highly prized.
How to Tell If You’ve Got a Valuable Penny
Not sure where to start? Here’s what to look for:
- Check the Year – Older dates like 1909, 1914, 1922, 1931, 1943, and 1955 are worth a second glance.
- Look for a Mint Mark – Found just below the year, letters like “S” (San Francisco) and “D” (Denver) usually mean it’s rarer. No letter? That’s from Philadelphia.
- What’s It Made Of? – For 1943 pennies, most were made of steel and look silver. If you’ve got a brownish 1943 penny, grab a magnet. If it sticks, it’s steel. If it doesn’t, it could be that rare copper penny.
If you think you’ve found something valuable, resist the urge to polish it. Scrubbing or cleaning an old coin can actually lower its worth. Collectors prefer coins with their original surface—even if it looks worn. Handle it gently by the edges, store it in a safe sleeve or container, and get it checked by a trusted coin grading service. They’ll confirm whether it’s genuine and give it a grade that could boost its resale value big time.
What’s really fun about the Lincoln Wheat Penny is that you don’t have to be a hardcore collector to enjoy the hunt. These coins weren’t locked away in some vault—they were everyday currency. So, they’re still out there, mixed in with the coins we use every day. All it takes is some curiosity and a good eye. You never know—your next trip to the store or roll of coins from the bank could lead to a life-changing discovery.
More Than Just Money: A Tiny Piece of American History
Sure, some of these coins are worth serious money, but their value goes beyond dollars. These pennies have been around for decades, passed through thousands of hands, and witnessed major events in American history. From honoring Abraham Lincoln to helping conserve metal during wartime, they each tell a story. They’re not just old coins—they’re small, everyday reminders of America’s past.
While it’s rare to stumble upon a half-million-dollar penny, it’s not impossible. That tiny coin hiding in your pocket might be one of the most sought-after collectibles in the world. So, before you dump your spare change into the coin jar, take a closer look.
