How a Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny Worth $1.7 Million Exists
Some Lincoln Wheat pennies are ordinary pocket change, while a few are extraordinary errors or rare strikes that attract collectors. One of the most famous examples is a 1943 Lincoln cent struck on bronze instead of the usual steel — an error that has sold for roughly $1.7 million at auction.
Understanding why a coin can be so valuable starts with knowing the minting error, the historical context, and how collectors value rarity and condition. This guide shows practical steps to check coins you already own.
Key Features of the Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny Worth $1.7 Million
Most Lincoln Wheat cents were made from different materials across years. Look for these signs if you suspect you have a rare 1943 bronze or other valuable wheat cent.
- Year and design: Lincoln Wheat cents are dated 1909–1958 and have two wheat stalks on the reverse side.
- Color: A 1943 bronze error will look copper-colored, not silver-gray like the common 1943 steel cents.
- Weight: Bronze cents weigh about 3.11 grams; the 1943 steel cents weigh about 2.7 grams.
- Magnet test: Steel cents are magnetic; bronze cents are not.
- Condition: Higher grade (less wear) increases value dramatically. Collectors prefer uncleaned, original surfaces.
Why the Year 1943 Matters
During World War II, copper was reserved for war production, so the U.S. Mint produced cents on zinc-coated steel in 1943. That year’s bronze cents were accidental and extremely rare.
Other valuable wheat cents are rare dates, mint-mark errors, or double dies, but the 1943 bronze cent is the headline-grabber for multi-million dollar sales.
How to Check a Potential Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny at Home
Follow simple, non-destructive tests first. These quick checks will tell you whether to seek professional appraisal.
- Visual inspection: Check the date and the wheat reverse. Note the coin’s color under good light.
- Magnet test: Use a small magnet. If the penny sticks, it’s steel and not the 1943 bronze error.
- Weigh the coin: If you have a precision scale, compare to 3.11 g. Many pocket scales are accurate enough for a quick check.
- Don’t clean it: Cleaning can destroy collector value. Avoid rubbing, polishing, or chemical treatments.
- Photograph details: Take clear photos of obverse and reverse for experts to review.
Tools You Need
- Small magnet
- Digital jewelry scale (0.01 g precision ideal)
- Magnifying loupe 10x
- Good light source and plain background for photos
The most famous sale of a 1943 bronze Lincoln cent reached about $1.7 million at auction in 2010. The coin’s rarity comes from an accidental use of bronze planchets meant for other years.
What to Do If You Find a Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny Worth $1.7 Million
If your checks suggest you might have a rare error coin, take measured steps. Avoid actions that could reduce the coin’s value.
- Do not clean the coin. Preserving original surfaces is critical.
- Document the coin with clear photos and notes about where and how you found it.
- Get a professional opinion from a reputable coin dealer or a third-party grading service like PCGS or NGC.
- Consider professional grading: Certification can significantly increase buyer confidence and sale price.
- Insure the coin if it’s confirmed valuable before shipping or transport for sale.
Finding a Buyer
Serious collectors and auction houses handle high-value coins. Use established auction houses or dealer firms with a track record of handling rare cents.
Get multiple opinions on value and choose a sales route — private sale, dealer consignment, or public auction — that fits your timeline and risk tolerance.
Small Case Study: The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent Sale
In 2010, a 1943 bronze Lincoln cent surfaced and was authenticated as an accidental bronze strike. The coin appeared to an owner who did not initially realize its rarity.
After authentication and grading, the coin sold at a major auction for approximately $1.7 million. That sale underscores the dramatic difference between ordinary pocket change and a verified error coin.
Lessons: Document provenance, avoid cleaning, and use reputable grading and auction services to maximize value.
Common Questions About Rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies
Can a 1943 bronze cent be found in pocket change?
Yes, though extremely rarely. Most surviving examples are found by collectors or individuals who later sought authentication. The odds are low, but the tests above let you check quickly.
How much is a rare Lincoln Wheat penny worth?
Values vary by date, mint mark, and condition. While one 1943 bronze cents sold for roughly $1.7 million, other rare wheat cents may be worth from a few hundred dollars to thousands.
Final Practical Tips
- Keep old coins in a dry, stable environment; avoid PVC flips or adhesives that can harm surfaces.
- Join a local coin club or online forums to get peer feedback before paying for grading.
- Use reputable services for grading and selling. Check reviews and membership in industry organizations.
By running a few simple checks — color, magnetism, weight, and condition — you can quickly flag coins that deserve professional attention. A rare Lincoln Wheat penny could be ordinary change, or it could be a very valuable discovery.
