This Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny Is Worth $310,000 – Here’s How to Spot It and If It’s Still Circulating

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This Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny Is Worth $310,000 – Here’s How to Spot It and If It’s Still Circulating

Could a simple penny in your pocket be worth a fortune? Believe it or not, some Lincoln Wheat Pennies have sold for over $300,000 at auctions. But how do you know if you have one? And is it still possible to find one in circulation today?

In this article, we’ll break down:
✔ Which rare Wheat Penny is worth $310,000
✔ Key features to identify it
✔ Where to look for hidden treasure
✔ Expert tips on grading and selling

What Makes This Lincoln Wheat Penny So Valuable?

The Lincoln Wheat Penny was minted from 1909 to 1958, but only a few rare versions are worth big money. The most famous is the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny, which was accidentally struck in bronze instead of steel.

Why the 1943 Bronze Penny Is Worth $310,000+

  • Minting Error: In 1943, pennies were supposed to be made from steel (to save copper for WWII), but a few were mistakenly struck in bronze.

  • Extreme Rarity: Only 10-15 are confirmed to exist.

  • High Demand: Collectors pay huge sums for this legendary coin.

How to Spot a Rare 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny

1. Check the Year (1943)

Most 1943 pennies are silver-colored (steel). If yours is copper/bronze, it could be the rare one.

2. Use a Magnet Test

  • Steel 1943 Penny → Sticks to a magnet

  • Bronze 1943 Penny → Does not stick

3. Look for Key Features

  • Weight: Bronze pennies weigh 3.11 grams (steel ones weigh 2.7 grams).

  • Color: Should look like a normal copper penny, not silver.

4. Check for Authenticity

Many fakes exist. If you think you have one, get it certified by PCGS or NGC (top coin grading companies).

Other Rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies Worth Money

Year & Variety Key Feature Estimated Value (Uncirculated)
1909-S VDB Tiny “VDB” on reverse 1,500–3,000+
1914-D Low mintage (Denver Mint) 200–5,000+
1922 No D Missing “D” mint mark 500–15,000+
1955 Double Die Obverse letters blurred 1,000–25,000+

Can You Still Find Rare Wheat Pennies in Circulation?

Possible, but extremely unlikely. Most valuable Wheat Pennies were pulled from circulation decades ago. However, you might still find them in:

✅ Old coin jars (check grandparents’ collections!)
✅ Estate sales & flea markets
✅ Bank rolls (some collectors hunt through penny rolls)

What to Do If You Think You Have a Rare Penny

  1. Don’t Clean It! (Cleaning reduces value)

  2. Compare It to Authentic Examples (Use online guides)

  3. Get It Graded by a Professional (PCGS/NGC certification adds value)

  4. Sell Through Reputable Auction Houses (Heritage Auctions, eBay Rare Coins)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many 1943 bronze pennies exist?

Only 10-15 are confirmed, making them one of the rarest U.S. coins.

2. Are all 1943 pennies valuable?

No—only the bronze ones. Most 1943 pennies are steel and worth 10¢ to 50¢.

3. What’s the most expensive Wheat Penny ever sold?

A 1943-S Bronze Penny sold for $1.7 million in 2010.

4. Can I find rare pennies in my change today?

It’s very rare, but people have found old coins in circulation. Always check!

5. Where’s the best place to sell a rare penny?

Auction houses like Heritage Auctions or certified coin dealers. Avoid pawn shops (they undervalue coins).

Final Verdict: Should You Start Hunting for Rare Pennies?

While the odds of finding a $310,000 penny are slim, checking your spare change costs nothing. Many collectors have found hidden treasures in unexpected places—maybe you’ll be next!

Have you ever found a rare coin? Share your story in the comments!

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