Have you ever considered that certain ancient coins kept with you could be worth lakhs of rupees? Yes, it is true. America’s Lincoln Wheat Penny is one such coin that appears basic but can be worth up to $30 million! Imagine if you had such a coin. You could suddenly become a millionaire. But the question is: can you recognize it? Let’s learn about this uncommon coin and how to distinguish it.
What is Lincoln Wheat Penny?
Lincoln Wheat Penny, as the name suggests, are coins with the image of US President Abraham Lincoln. These coins were first issued in 1909, and were in circulation till 1958. These coins have an image of wheat ears on the back, which makes it called “Wheat Penny”. Apart from this, these coins also have a picture of President Lincoln, which makes it even more special.
Why is this coin so expensive?
There is an interesting story behind why Lincoln Wheat Penny is worth millions. Actually, some Lincoln Wheat Pennies had a special error, which is called “error coins”. These errors make coins rare and valuable. The most valuable version is from 1943, when by mistake some coins were made in copper, while at that time it was decided to make all the pennies from steel.
This coin was different from the rest of the coins because it was made of copper, and as time passed, the number of these coins decreased. Now these coins are very rare, and collectors are ready to buy them for millions of dollars. The price of these copper coins can reach up to $30 million!
How to identify this rare coin?
If you also have old coins, then it is very important to know whether any of them can be Lincoln Wheat Penny, and if yes, then whether it is a rare coin worth $30 million. Here are some easy ways to identify it:
1. Check the year
First of all, you need to check the year of the coin. If you have a 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny, it could be a potential candidate. Most of the 1943 pennies were made of steel, but some were accidentally made of copper, and these are the rare coins that are worth millions.
2. Check the type of metal
1943 Lincoln Wheat Pennies are usually made of steel and stick to a magnet. But if your coin does not stick to a magnet and looks like copper, then it could be that rare coin that could be worth up to $30 million.
3. Condition
The condition of the coin is also very important. If the coin is in good condition and does not have any kind of scratches or stains on it, then its value may increase. The weight of the coin may also feel a little heavy if it is made of copper.
4. Mint Mark
Pay attention to the small mint mark at the bottom of the coin. It tells where the coin was made. For example, if the coin has a ‘D’ or ‘S’ mint mark, it may be even more valuable.
5. Grading of the coin
It is also very important to get the coin evaluated correctly. Getting it graded by an expert will help you find out its real value. Experts will tell how special this coin is for collectors.
Can you also own this coin?
You will be surprised to know that even today some old Lincoln Wheat Pennies may be lying in people’s homes, in their old coin collection or piggy bank. Sometimes we leave old coins without any value, but the discovery of a special coin can make you a millionaire.
What to do if you find such a coin?
If you also find a 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny or any such rare coin, then first get it checked. You can get it checked by a certified coin expert. You can then sell it to a collector, or keep it in your collection, which may become even more valuable in the future.
Conclusion: A small coin, a big fortune
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a coin that looks normal, but is worth crores of rupees. This coin is a treasure for collectors, and if you can identify it correctly, it can prove to be a great gift for you. The next time you see old coins, take a close look – who knows, you too may have such a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny!
FAQs
Why is the Lincoln Wheat Penny worth $30 million?
The historical 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny with the error of being made of copper (not steel) can be worth as much as $30 million.
How do I know whether my Lincoln Wheat Penny is a million-dollar coin?
Look to see if the penny is 1943, copper, and not attracted to a magnet. These are indicators of a valuable penny.
What do I do if I discover a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny?
If you think it’s a rare penny, have it professionally graded and appraised by a coin specialist or grading service.
Are there other Lincoln Wheat Pennies that are worth a lot of money?
Yes, other Lincoln Wheat Pennies with defects or in mint condition are also valuable, but none are as high as the 1943 copper version.
