The Lincoln Wheat Penny Valued at $168K : Did you know a simple Lincoln Wheat Penny could be worth $168,000? This rare coin, still circulating, is a treasure hiding in plain sight. Here’s how to spot it and why it’s so valuable.
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat penny holds a special place in American coin collecting as one of the most coveted and valuable coins in the Lincoln cent series. This remarkable coin represents the inaugural year of Lincoln pennies, which would go on to become one of America’s longest-running coin designs. What makes this particular penny extraordinary is the combination of two key factors: the San Francisco mint mark (S) and the designer’s initials (VDB) appearing together on a coin with extremely limited production. These elements have created a legendary status for this humble penny that continues to captivate collectors more than a century after its creation.
Key Facts About the $168K Lincoln Wheat Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1943 |
| Mistake | Made of copper (should be steel) |
| Why Valuable? | Only 10-15 exist (accidental minting) |
| Where Found? | In regular change (yes, really!) |
| How to Check? | Use a magnet (real 1943 pennies stick; copper ones don’t) |
How This Penny Became a Fortune
The 1943 Mistake
- During WWII, pennies were made of steel to save copper for bullets.
- A few copper blanks got stuck in machines, creating rare copper 1943 pennies.
Why $168,000?
- Only 10-15 are confirmed to exist.
- One sold for $168,000 in 2021.
Could You Find One?
- Check old coin jars or inherited collections.
- Test 1943 pennies with a magnet (real ones stick; copper ones don’t).
What to Do If You Find One
- Don’t clean it! Scratching lowers its value.
- Get it certified by the PCGS or NGC (coin grading companies).
- Sell via auction houses like Heritage Auctions.
FAQs
Q: How much is a worn 1909-S VDB penny worth?
A: 600to5,000, depending on condition.
Q: Where could I find one?
A: Search:
- Inherited coin collections
- Antique shops
- Old coin jars
Q: What’s the rarest Lincoln penny?
A: The 1943 copper penny (accidentally made) is worth $200,000+!
