Old coins might not look like much—but some are worth a fortune. One rare U.S. penny, the Lincoln Wheat Penny, has been valued at up to $2 million. And believe it or not, it might still be hiding in a change jar, an old drawer, or even in your wallet right now.
This small copper coin, often dismissed as spare change, could turn out to be a once-in-a-lifetime finding. Here’s what makes it special—and how to tell if you’ve got one.
History
First minted in 1909, the Lincoln Wheat Penny shows Abraham Lincoln on the front and two wheat stalks on the back—hence the name.
This design stayed in use until 1958, when the U.S. Mint introduced the Lincoln Memorial version. While most Wheat Pennies are common, a few rare ones have become incredibly valuable over time.
Value
Most Wheat Pennies are only worth a few cents. But a handful are now worth millions. The most famous? The 1943 Copper Wheat Penny.
That year, the U.S. needed copper for World War II, so pennies were made from steel. But a few copper ones were mistakenly struck. Those rare coins are now collector gold—only a few are known to exist, and one in great shape can sell for as much as $2 million.
Another top collectible is the 1909-S VDB penny. It was minted in San Francisco and features the designer’s initials, “VDB,” on the reverse. Thanks to its limited release, it’s also a major prize for collectors.
Circulation
What’s most exciting is these coins could still be out there.
They might be tucked inside a dusty coin jar, handed down through generations, or brought back from a trip abroad. Because they look like any other penny, people often overlook them.
That’s why collectors always say—check your change. You never know what you’ll find.
Clues
Not sure what to look for? Here are some quick tips:
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Penny | A 1943 penny with a copper tone. Try a magnet—steel sticks, copper won’t. |
| 1909-S VDB Penny | Look for “VDB” initials on the reverse and an “S” mint mark. |
| Mint Condition | Sharp details, shiny finish, minimal wear. |
| Error Coins | Doubled letters or numbers can increase the value. |
If you spot anything unusual, don’t spend it. Have a certified appraiser or coin expert take a look.
Appeal
So why the hype around these old pennies?
It’s more than just the money. These coins are pieces of history—rare, fascinating, and increasingly valuable. Some collectors chase them for the story. Others see them as smart investments.
Even if you don’t find a $2 million penny, many Wheat Pennies can still fetch hundreds or thousands depending on the date and condition.
So the next time you’re sorting through old coins or cleaning out a drawer, take a closer look. That little copper coin might be far more than just spare change.
FAQs
Why is the 1943 copper penny valuable?
It was mistakenly made from copper during a year steel was used instead.
What does VDB mean on the 1909 penny?
They are the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner.
How can I test if my 1943 penny is copper?
Use a magnet—steel sticks, copper doesn’t.
Can these pennies still be found today?
Yes, they could be in old collections, change jars, or even wallets.
What should I do if I find a rare penny?
Get it professionally appraised before selling or trading it.
