Imagine finding a penny in your pocket change and discovering it’s worth more than a luxury car. That’s the case with a Lincoln Wheat Penny valued at $168,000 — a coin so rare that it continues to stir excitement among collectors, yet it could still slip into everyday circulation unnoticed.
What Is the $168K Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was minted between 1909 and 1958, featuring two wheat stalks on the reverse. While most are worth only face value, certain error coins and rare dates are valued at jaw-dropping prices. One such penny, linked to a rare 1943 bronze strike, has stunned the collecting world with an auction value of $168,000.
A Brief History of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
Designed by Victor David Brenner in 1909 to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, the wheat penny was the first US coin to feature a real person. Most pennies during WWII were made from zinc-coated steel to save copper for the war effort, but a few bronze coins accidentally slipped through. These error coins became the stuff of legend.
Why This Penny Is So Valuable
The 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny is so rare because only a few were minted when leftover bronze planchets were mistakenly used instead of steel. Collectors prize it for its unique history, limited supply, and high-grade condition. With so few in existence, its value skyrockets with every auction.
Comparison of Regular vs. Rare Lincoln Pennies
| Coin Type | Year | Metal Composition | Approx. Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Wheat Penny | 1909–1958 | 95% Copper | $0.01–$5 |
| 1943 Steel Penny | 1943 | Zinc-coated Steel | $0.10–$10 |
| 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny (Rare) | 1943 | Bronze | $100,000–$168,000+ |
How to Spot a Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny
Check the date and material. If your 1943 penny sticks to a magnet, it’s steel — common. If it doesn’t, you may have a bronze error. Weight is another clue: steel pennies weigh 2.7 grams, while bronze ones weigh 3.11 grams.
Key Identification Features
| Feature | Regular Steel Penny (1943) | Rare Bronze Penny (1943) |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Grayish silver | Reddish brown |
| Magnet Test | Attracts magnet | Does not attract |
| Weight | 2.7 grams | 3.11 grams |
| Value | $0.10–$10 | $100,000–$168,000+ |
Collector Tips: How to Maximize Your Chances
- Search old coin jars and rolls — many rare pennies have been found in pocket change.
- Use a magnet and scale to quickly test 1943 pennies.
- Get coins authenticated by PCGS or NGC for official grading and certification.
- Preserve condition by avoiding cleaning; even small scratches can cut value in half.
Notable Facts That Shock Collectors
- The 1943 bronze penny is often called the “millionaire penny.”
- Only around 15 to 20 examples are confirmed to exist today.
- In 2019, one sold for $204,000 at auction.
FAQs
Q: Could I still find a 1943 bronze penny in circulation?
A: Yes, though extremely rare, a few may still remain hidden in coin jars or old rolls.
Q: Are other Wheat Pennies valuable too?
A: Yes, key dates like 1909-S VDB and 1914-D can be worth thousands.
Q: How do I safely sell one?
A: Always use certified coin dealers or major auction houses for maximum value.
Conclusion: A Penny That Could Change Your Life
The Lincoln Wheat Penny worth $168,000 is more than just currency — it’s a symbol of history, chance, and fortune. With millions of wheat pennies still circulating, you might unknowingly hold a life-changing coin. The next time you find a penny, look closer. It might just be the treasure everyone else overlooked.