Pennies Worth a Fortune
Most pennies are worth just one cent, but some Lincoln Wheat Pennies have sold for millions at auctions due to their rarity and unique errors. Minted from 1909 to 1958, these coins feature Abraham Lincoln on the front and wheat stalks on the back. A few rare versions, often with minting mistakes, have caught collectors’ eyes, driving prices sky-high. Here are the top five Wheat Pennies that fetched million-dollar sums, and how you can spot them in your change.
The 1943-D Bronze Penny: A Wartime Mistake
The 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny is the rarest of all pennies, with only one known to exist. During World War II, pennies were made of steel to save copper, but a single bronze planchet was mistakenly used at the Denver Mint. This coin sold for $1.7 million in 2010 and is valued at $2.3 million in perfect condition. Its copper color and “D” mint mark make it a legend among collectors. Check your 1943 pennies with a magnet; steel ones stick, but a bronze one doesn’t.
The 1943-S Bronze Penny: Another War Error
Another 1943 error, the 1943-S Bronze Penny from San Francisco, is also incredibly rare, with only a few known examples. Like the 1943-D, it was struck on a bronze planchet by mistake when steel was standard. One sold for $1 million at auction in 2020. Look for a copper-colored 1943 penny with an “S” mint mark under the date. Weigh it too; bronze pennies are about 3.11 grams, while steel ones are 2.7 grams. Counterfeits exist, so always get it certified.
The 1944-S Steel Penny: A Reverse Error
The 1944-S Steel Wheat Penny is a rare error where a steel planchet, meant for 1943, was used in 1944 when pennies returned to copper. Only two are known, making it a collector’s dream. One sold for $1.1 million in 2021. Check for a silvery 1944 penny with an “S” mint mark. It should stick to a magnet, unlike the usual copper 1944 pennies. Its rarity and historical quirk make it a top find.
Spotting These Rare Pennies
To identify these million-dollar Wheat Pennies, look for these clues:
- Year: Focus on 1943 or 1944 dates for error coins.
- Material: Use a magnet to test 1943 (bronze doesn’t stick) or 1944 (steel sticks).
- Mint Mark: Check for “D” or “S” under the date.
- Condition: Coins with clear details and original color fetch more.
- Weight: Bronze pennies weigh about 3.11 grams; steel ones are 2.7 grams.
Always handle coins with gloves and get them graded by PCGS or NGC to confirm authenticity.
| Coin Type | Key Features |
|---|---|
| 1943-D Bronze | Copper, “D” mint mark |
| 1943-S Bronze | Copper, “S” mint mark |
| 1944-S Steel | Steel, “S” mint mark |
Other High-Value Wheat Pennies
Two more Wheat Pennies have crossed the million-dollar mark. The 1943 Bronze Penny (no mint mark) from Philadelphia sold for $1.7 million in 2010, with about 10 to 15 known. It’s another wartime error, struck on a bronze planchet. The 1944 Steel Penny (no mint mark) sold for $1.1 million in 2021, with fewer than 30 known. Both are prized for their rarity and minting mistakes, making them targets for collectors.
| Coin Type | Auction Price |
|---|---|
| 1943-D Bronze | $1.7 million (2010) |
| 1943-S Bronze | $1 million (2020) |
| 1944-S Steel | $1.1 million (2021) |
| 1943 Bronze | $1.7 million (2010) |
| 1944 Steel | $1.1 million (2021) |
A Treasure Hunt in Your Change
These rare Wheat Pennies show that a single cent can be worth millions. Check old jars, bank rolls, or inherited collections for 1943 or 1944 pennies with unusual metal or mint marks. Use a magnet and a scale to test them, and consult a professional for grading. While finding one is like striking gold, the thrill of the hunt keeps collectors searching. Your next penny could be a million-dollar masterpiece.