Lincoln Penny : you ever imagined that an old coin tucked away in your pocket or piggy bank could be worth a fortune? One such coin making headlines in the U.S. is the Lincoln Wheat Penny, a seemingly ordinary piece of currency that could be worth anywhere from $150,000 to over $1 million—if it’s the right one.
The Lincoln Wheat Penny: A Piece of American History
First introduced in 1909, the Lincoln Wheat Penny was minted to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. This coin features Lincoln’s profile on the obverse (front) and two wheat stalks on the reverse (back), earning it the nickname “Wheat Penny.” While millions were produced, one rare variant stands out—the 1943-S Bronze Wheat Penny, a coin so valuable that collectors are willing to pay top dollar for it.
Why Is the 1943-S Bronze Wheat Penny So Valuable?
During World War II, the U.S. government needed copper for ammunition and military supplies. As a result, 1943 pennies were struck on zinc-coated steel planchets instead of the traditional bronze (copper-tin alloy). However, due to a minting error, a small number of 1943 pennies were accidentally struck on leftover bronze planchets.
Among these, the 1943-S Bronze Wheat Penny (minted in San Francisco, marked by the “S” mint mark) is the rarest and most valuable. Only a handful are known to exist, making them highly sought after by collectors.
The Record-Breaking Sale of a 1943-S Bronze Penny
The most famous sale of this rare coin was made by Bob R. Simpson, co-owner of the Texas Rangers baseball team, who purchased a pristine 1943-S Bronze Wheat Penny for a staggering $1 million. This particular coin remains one of the finest known examples, often displayed in museums.
How to Check If Your Penny Is Worth a Fortune
If you have a 1943 Lincoln Penny, here’s how to determine if it’s the rare bronze version:
1. The Magnet Test
Most 1943 pennies are steel and will stick to a magnet. If your coin does not stick, it could be the rare bronze version.
2. Look for the “S” Mint Mark
Check the reverse (back) of the coin—if it has an “S” below the wheat stalks, it was minted in San Francisco, where the most valuable bronze errors originated.
3. Weigh the Coin
A bronze 1943 penny weighs about 3.11 grams, while a steel penny weighs 2.7 grams. A small kitchen scale can help verify this.
4. Get It Certified by an Expert
If you suspect you have a 1943-S Bronze Penny, consult a professional numismatist (coin expert). They can authenticate and grade it, significantly increasing its value.
Could This Rare Coin Still Be in Circulation?
Believe it or not, some 1943-S Bronze Pennies have been found in circulation, old coin collections, and even flea markets. While the chances are slim, it’s worth checking your spare change—you might just stumble upon a hidden treasure!
Final Thoughts: Could You Be Sitting on a Fortune?
The 1943-S Bronze Wheat Penny is one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history, with some selling for six or seven figures. If you have old coins lying around, take a closer look—you never know if luck is on your side
