You Might Be Holding a Coin Worth Over ₹1.38 Crore. That old coin lying in your wallet or tucked away in a drawer might be worth a fortune—over ₹1.38 crore to be exact! A rare Lincoln Wheat Penny was recently sold for an incredible $166,000, and coins like it are still floating around in everyday use.
Wondering how a simple penny can carry such a high price tag? This article will explain why this coin is so valuable, how you can identify it, and where it might still be found.
What Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a historic U.S. coin introduced in 1909. It features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln on one side and two wheat stalks on the reverse, which is how it got its name.
These coins were minted until 1958. While most are common and not worth much, certain rare versions can be extremely valuable, fetching lakhs or even crores of rupees today.
Why Is One Penny Worth $166,000?
During World War II in 1943, copper was reserved for military use, so the U.S. Mint began producing pennies using steel. However, a small batch was mistakenly struck using copper that year. These 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Pennies are now among the rarest coins in the world.
One such penny fetched $166,000 at auction. Experts believe there are still some out there, possibly unnoticed in ordinary collections or spare change.
How to Identify a Rare Lincoln Penny
Think you might have one of these valuable coins? Here’s how you can check:
- Year
Search for pennies dated 1943, which is the year the copper error occurred. - Metal Test
Try using a magnet. Steel pennies will cling to it, but copper ones will not. - Colour
Copper coins appear reddish-brown, while steel versions look silver or grey. - Errors
Look for printing mistakes like double impressions, missing letters, or odd markings. - Weight
Copper versions weigh more than steel pennies.
Where Can You Find One?
It may seem unlikely, but these rare coins still turn up in surprising places, such as:
- Spare change from stores
- Forgotten piggy banks
- Your grandparents’ old coin boxes
- Flea markets and vintage shops
- Wallets and drawers that haven’t been checked in years
What to Do If You Find One
If you stumble upon a 1943 Wheat Penny that seems unusual, take the following steps:
- Avoid cleaning it – Scrubbing the coin can actually reduce its value.
- Do the magnet test – If it doesn’t stick, it could be copper.
- Consult a coin expert – A professional can verify its authenticity and worth.
- Decide its future – You can either auction it off or keep it as a long-term collectible.
A 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny made of copper is among the rarest and most sought-after coins. With one recently sold for $166,000, this humble penny could make you a fortune.
So, the next time you get change or go through old belongings, don’t overlook the coins—you could be holding a hidden gem.
FAQs
What is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
It’s a U.S. coin produced between 1909 and 1958, with Abraham Lincoln on the front and two wheat stalks on the back.
Why is the 1943 Lincoln Penny worth $166,000?
In 1943, pennies were made from steel due to wartime copper shortages. A few were accidentally made using copper, making them extremely rare.
How do I check if my 1943 penny is copper?
Use a magnet—steel coins will stick, copper won’t. Also, look for a reddish-brown colour rather than grey.
Where can I find a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny?
Check loose change, old piggy banks, antique stores, flea markets, and family coin stashes. You never know where one might turn up.
What should I do if I find a rare penny?
Keep it safe and uncleaned, get it verified by a coin expert, and then decide whether to sell it or keep it as an investment.
Susan is a seasoned finance writer with a knack for breaking down complex money topics into clear, actionable advice. With years of experience in personal finance, investing, and market trends, she empowers readers to make smarter financial decisions. Her work has been featured in leading finance blogs and publications, where she combines sharp analysis with relatable storytelling. Whether it’s budgeting, wealth-building, or decoding the latest economic shifts, Susan’s mission is to help people take control of their financial future with confidence.