$34 million worth Lincoln Wheat penny: where to look for it?

Coins hold a unique significance in American history, and among them, the Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of the most famous and highly prized by collectors. Normally worth one cent, this coin is sometimes found in such rare varieties that its value can reach $34 million. If you’re wondering what this extraordinary coin is and where to find it, this article will provide you with all the details.

History of the Lincoln Wheat Penny

The Lincoln Wheat Penny was introduced in 1909 to commemorate the centenary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. The coin was designed by Victor David Brenner. The obverse of the coin depicts a portrait of Lincoln, while the reverse depicts two wheat stalks, symbolizing America’s agricultural values.

This wheat design remained in place until 1958, when it was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial design. This means that the Lincoln Wheat Penny has now become a historic and iconic symbol of American coinage, and its popularity among collectors remains intact today.

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1943 Copper Penny: How Rare Is It?

1943 Copper Penny
1943 Copper Penny

Most Lincoln Wheat pennies are made of copper and zinc. However, a rare mistake occurred in 1943 during World War II. The US government decided to mint pennies from steel to save copper during the war.

However, some copper planchets were accidentally left in the minting process and were stamped with the date 1943. This resulted in some 1943 Copper Lincoln Wheat Pennies, which are extremely rare.

Only a few of these copper 1943 pennies were minted, and even fewer survive. This makes this coin one of the most sought-after and valuable coins among collectors.

Why the $34 million price?

There are several reasons why the 1943 Copper Wheat Penny has reached such a high value of millions of dollars:

  1. Extreme rarity: Only a few coins are known to exist.
  2. Historical significance: This is a mistake from the WWII era and a part of American minting history.
  3. Unique material: Normal 1943 pennies were made of steel, while this one is made of copper.
  4. Collectors’ attraction: Its rarity and historical significance make it a “holy grail” for coin collectors.

For all these reasons, this coin has become extremely valuable not only to history buffs but also to investors and collectors.

Where can I find it?

If you’re wondering if this coin might still exist, there are a few possibilities:

  1. Old coin collections: Family or personal collections may often contain this rare coin.
  2. Old coin jars and boxes: Old coin storage jars and boxes sometimes provide a source of exceptional coins.
  3. Old rolls in the bank: Rolls of old coins sometimes return to the banking system, where they can be discovered.
  4. Estate sales and auctions: This coin may turn up at auctions of old homes or collections.
  5. Rural and small-town businesses: Small businesses may have old coins hidden in their cash holdings.

Remember, this coin is so rare that finding it can almost be considered a matter of luck.

Expert tips

If you are a collector and discover such a rare coin, experts recommend taking certain precautions:

  • Save photos and records of the coin after discovering it.
  • Do not clean or modify the coin, as this may reduce its value.
  • Have the coin professionally inspected by reputable grading services.
  • Do not immediately disclose the discovery of the coin.
  • It is essential to take security measures after the discovery.

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Conclusion

The $34 million The Lincoln Wheat Penny holds a unique place not only in American history but also in the world of coins. Its rarity, historical significance, and unique material make it a treasure any collector would dream of.

If you’re examining old coins, always keep in mind that even the most ordinary-looking coin could hold a highly valuable find. The next $34 million coin could be just the thing you’re holding.

FAQs

Q. What makes the 1943 Copper Lincoln Wheat Penny so valuable?

A. It’s extremely rare because only a few copper pennies were accidentally minted in 1943, during the steel penny production for WWII.

Q. How much was the highest sale of a 1943 Copper Wheat Penny?

A. One such penny recently sold for an astonishing $34 million at auction.

Q. Where could these rare pennies still be found?

A. They might be in old coin collections, family coin jars, bank rolls, estate sales, or small-town businesses.

Q. What should I do if I think I have one?

A. Take professional authentication, avoid cleaning it, and ensure proper storage in a non-PVC album.

Q. Why is this coin considered the “holy grail” of U.S. coins?

A. Its extreme rarity, historical significance, and unique copper composition make it one of the most sought-after coins by collectors.

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