The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a big part of American coin history. When it was first made in 1909, it changed how coins looked. For the first time, a real person—President Abraham Lincoln—was shown on a U.S. coin instead of the usual Liberty image. The design was made by artist Victor David Brenner to mark 100 years since Lincoln’s birth. The front had Lincoln’s profile, and the back had two wheat stalks. Over time, this design became familiar to many people.
A Rare Mistake During the War
The story behind the $120 million penny begins in World War II. In 1943, the U.S. needed lots of copper for bullets and war tools. So, the Mint started using steel to make pennies instead. But at the Denver Mint, some copper blanks from 1942 were still left in the machines. These copper pieces were used by mistake, and the 1943 penny design was stamped on them. This small error made one of the rarest and most valuable coins ever.
Why It’s So Valuable
This one-of-a-kind 1943 Denver copper penny is worth $120 million for a few key reasons. First, it’s in perfect condition, with no signs of wear. Second, it was made during a historic time, which adds to its value. And third, it’s super rare—only a few exist. Its condition, history, and rarity make it a dream coin for collectors.
How to Know If It’s Real
To find out if you have a real 1943 copper penny, check a few things. It should show a “D” mark for Denver and be made of copper, not steel. The date should be clear and not scratched or changed. Many fakes have altered dates, so experts suggest having rare coins looked at by professional graders. They use special tools to see if the coin is real and to give it a grade.
The Fun of Coin Hunting
One of the best parts of collecting Lincoln Wheat Pennies is the chance of finding a rare one. While it’s very unlikely to find the $120 million coin, other valuable ones might still show up in old jars, family collections, or even spare change. This keeps collectors excited and always searching.
How to Keep Coins Safe
To keep coins in great shape, follow a few simple rules. Never clean them—cleaning can ruin their value. Always hold coins by the edges so you don’t leave fingerprints. Store them in protective holders to stop damage from air or drops. These steps help coins stay valuable for years.
Why This Coin Matters
This special penny has had a big impact on coin collecting. It has made more people curious about checking their coins and learning the stories behind them. The tale of the $120 million penny proves that even a small coin could be worth a lot. It inspires new collectors to start looking into the hobby.
Disclaimer: This article is for general info only. Coin values can change. Always talk to certified coin experts for true estimates. Finding rare coins is very rare and not guaranteed.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if I have a 1943 copper penny?
A: Check for a 1943 date, a “D” mintmark, and make sure it’s copper, not steel. Have a coin expert look at it.
Q: Can I find rare pennies in everyday change?
A: It’s not common, but sometimes rare coins show up in loose change or old collections.
Q: Should I clean old coins to make them look better?
A: No. Cleaning coins can damage them and reduce their value. It’s best to leave them as they are.
Q: Why is the $120 million penny so rare?
A: It’s rare because it was a mistake made during WWII, it’s in perfect shape, and only a few were made.