Have you ever thought that a single penny in your pocket could be worth crores? Yes, this is true! A rare Lincoln Wheat Penny in America is estimated to be valued around $589,000 (approximately ₹4.9 crores) now and is still widely traded.
Let us know why this coin is so special and how you can identify it.
What is Lincoln Wheat Penny?
Lincoln Wheat Penny is a historical American coin that was first issued in 1909. Its front side has an image of former US President Abraham Lincoln and the back has a design of two wheat stalks. Because of this it is called “Wheat Penny”.
This coin continued to be made till 1958, and then the design was changed to include the design of Lincoln Memorial.
Why the price of $589,000?
Not all Lincoln Wheat Penny are worth this much. Some special editions, such as the 1943 Copper Penny, are extremely rare. Usually the coins of that year were made in steel, but by mistake some were also minted in copper. These coins made by mistake are now sold in crores.
Apart from this, the Mint Mark (such as D, S) and the condition of the coin also determine its price. The better the condition, the higher the price!
How can you identify it?
If you have old American coins, look carefully:
- Look at the year – coins between 1909 and 1958.
- Look at the design on the back – there should be two wheat ears.
- Pay attention to the Mint Mark – the coin may have D (Denver) or S (San Francisco).
- Pay attention to the metal – if the 1943 coin is made of copper, you can be a millionaire!
- Condition – An unworn and clean coin is worth the most.
What to do if you have such a coin?
- Contact a numismatist.
- Get the coin authenticated by organizations like PCGS or NGC.
- Sell it at auction – on eBay or other collectible marketplaces.
Can such coins be found in India?
Possible. Many people have brought old US coins to India during their trips abroad or through relatives. If you have ever seen an American “Wheat Penny”, then now is the time to look at it carefully again.
Conclusion:
Even small coins can have wealth worth crores hidden in them. Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny is the biggest example of this. Check your pocket, piggy bank or old coin vault from today itself. Who knows, your next lucky moment may bring an old coin!
FAQs
What is Lincoln Wheat Penny?
It is an American coin that was issued from 1909 to 1958. It has a design of two ears of wheat on the back, hence it is called “Wheat Penny”.
Why is this coin worth so much?
Some Lincoln Wheat Pennies were made in very small numbers due to a special mistake or rarity, such as the 1943 Copper Penny. These rare versions sell for crores today.
Is this coin still in circulation?
Yes, it is believed that some rare coins may still be hidden in people’s pockets or piggy banks.
How to identify this coin?
This coin will be between 1909 to 1958, with a picture of Lincoln and ears of wheat on the back. Also look for special years like 1943 and mint mark.
What should I do if I have such a coin?
Contact a numismatist, have the coin examined, and sell it through auction.
