The coin collecting world lit up recently when a 1943 copper Wheat penny – an error coin struck when pennies should have been made from steel – reportedly sold for $980,000.
This kind of mis-mint, where copper planchets were accidentally used, makes the coin extraordinarily rare. Only a few genuine “copper 1943” Wheat pennies are known, and condition greatly influences value.
What Makes the 1943 Copper Wheat Penny So Valuable
- Wrong metal error: In 1943, pennies were supposed to be steel because copper was needed for wartime uses; a few copper/bronze blanks were mistakenly used.
- Extreme scarcity: Perhaps only 30–40 authentic examples survive worldwide.
- Condition counts: Those in high mint state (sharp detail, minimal wear, good color) draw big prices.
- Auction demand: Collectors compete fiercely, especially for verified, certified specimens.
Rare Wheat Pennies & Their Value Ranges
Here’s a table showing some of the most valuable Lincoln Wheat pennies and what they tend to sell for:
| Date / Variety | Why It’s Rare / Error Type | Known Approx Values |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 Copper (Bronze) Penny | Wrong planchet error; very few known | $250,000 – $980,000+ |
| 1944 Steel Penny (any mint) | Steel blanks used in wrong year or by mistake | $75,000 – $200,000+ |
| 1909-S VDB | Low mintage; “VDB” initials designer, scarce year | Tens to hundreds of thousands |
| 1955 Doubled-Die Obverse (DDO) | Strong doubling on date/motto | $50,000 – $200,000+ |
| 1922 No D (Strong Reverse) | Missing the “D” mintmark; strong reversed detail | $30,000 – $80,000+ |
Could One Still Be Hiding in Your Wallet?
Possibly—but very unlikely. Most of the known high-value Wheat pennies are already in certified collections. However, coins sometimes surface from old coin rolls, estate collections, or forgotten jars. If you have a penny with an unusual metal, mintmark, error or extraordinary condition, it’s worth checking.
How You Can Check Your Pennies
- Use a magnet test – Steel is magnetic; copper/bronze is not.
- Check the weight – Copper/bronze Wheat cents weigh approx 3.11 grams; steel ones lighter (~2.7 g).
- Inspect date & mintmark – Look for 1943, see if there’s a mintmark (D or S) or none (Philadelphia).
- Look for errors – Wrong metal, doubling, off-center strikes, no mintmark.
- Get it graded – Professional grading (e.g., PCGS, NGC) helps confirm authenticity and boost value.
The story of the $980K 1943 copper Wheat penny shows how even a simple one-cent piece can become extraordinarily valuable when rare errors and condition converge.
While most Wheat pennies remain common, a few authentic error coins carry six-figure values. Careful inspection and professional grading are essential to avoid fakes and unlock true worth.
FAQs
Is there a confirmed sale for $980,000 for a Wheat penny?
Yes, there are reports that a 1943 copper Wheat penny sold for around $980,000, given its rarity and premium condition.
What is the most famous Wheat penny error?
The 1943 copper mis-mint is among the most famous; others like the 1909-S VDB, 1955 doubled-die, and 1922 No D are also legendary.
How do I know if my Wheat penny is authentic and not a plated fake?
Use multiple tests: magnet, weight, look for characteristic color and surface. If it seems promising, send it to a reputable grading service for verification.
