Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny Worth $6.6 Million – Is It Still in Use?

Coins usually lie in our pockets or piggy banks, which we do not pay much attention to. But do you know that some coins can change your luck? One such rare coin is the Lincoln Wheat Penny, which was sold at an auction for $ 6.6 million. It sounds unbelievable, but the history and rarity of this coin make it priceless.

Lincoln Wheat Penny: Historical Background

Lincoln Wheat Penny: Historical Background

The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first issued in 1909 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. It was the first American coin to have the image of a real historical person. It was designed by the famous designer Victor David Brenner.

The back of this coin has the shape of two wheat ears, which is considered a symbol of prosperity. Although most Lincoln Wheat Pennies do not have any special price, the 1943 Copper Penny is like a rare gem, whose price is skyrocketing.

1943 Copper Penny: Why is it so valuable?

In 1943, during World War II, the U.S. Mint decided to make the Lincoln Wheat Penny out of steel to save copper. But during this time some coins were mistakenly minted in copper. This production error led to a few 1943 Copper Pennies coming into existence.

Today, according to experts, only 15 to 20 such coins exist. This rarity is what makes it priceless. This is why a 1943 Copper Penny was sold for $6.6 million, making it the most expensive Lincoln Penny ever.

Is this coin still in circulation?

Is this coin still in circulation?

It is surprising to know that the 1943 Copper Penny looks so similar to normal coins, which makes it even more exciting. This means that this coin may still be in circulation somewhere. Many people may unknowingly spend this rare coin thinking it is a common one.

If you have a collection of old coins, they need to be carefully examined. Many collectors have discovered priceless gems in their childhood piggy banks or among their grandparents’ old coins. You may even have a rare 1943 Copper Penny that is worth millions of dollars.

How to Identify if You Have a 1943 Copper Penny?

How to Identify if You Have a 1943 Copper Penny?

If you want to know if you have this rare coin or not, do the following tests:

  1. Look at the color:
    • The 1943 Copper Penny is reddish-copper in color.
    • While the Steel Penny is gray in color.
  2. Do a magnet test:
    • If the coin sticks to a magnet, it is made of steel and will be counted among common coins.
    • If it does not stick to a magnet, it may be a Copper Penny.
  3. Check the weight:
    • The 1943 Copper Penny weighs 3.11 grams.
    • While the 1943 Steel Penny weighs only 2.7 grams.

Conclusion: Can this coin change your fate?

If you have a collection of old coins, take them out and check them out immediately. Who knows, you might have a coin worth $6.6 million and you don’t even know it! The 1943 Copper Penny was the result of a historical mistake, but today it has become one of the most valuable coins in the world.

If you think you might have this rare coin, consult a coin expert or numismatics specialist. You might have a piece of history in your hands that is worth crores!

FAQs

Q1. Why is the 1943 Copper Penny so valuable?

A. It was mistakenly minted in copper instead of steel, making it extremely rare.

Q2. How much is a 1943 Copper Penny worth?

A. One was sold for $6.6 million, making it one of the most valuable pennies ever.

Q3. How can I check if I have a 1943 Copper Penny?

A. Look for a reddish-copper color, test with a magnet (it should not stick), and check its weight (3.11 grams).

Q4. Are 1943 Copper Pennies still in circulation?

A. It’s possible, as some may have been spent without knowing their true value.

Q5. Where can I sell a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny?

A. You can sell it through coin dealers, auctions, or numismatic organizations.

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