Most people think of pennies as the least valuable form of currency—easily overlooked, left in jars, and forgotten in piggy banks. But what if one of those pennies could be worth more than your car… or even enough to pay off your mortgage? That’s exactly what happened to one lucky individual who cracked open a childhood piggy bank and discovered a rare coin worth over $180,000. Believe it or not, hidden gems like this are out there, and they often look just like any ordinary penny. Let’s explore three Lincoln Wheat Pennies that are turning heads—and bank accounts—in the collector world.
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
Easily one of the most legendary errors in U.S. coinage history, the 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny is an incredibly rare find. During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to using zinc-coated steel to conserve copper. However, a few copper blanks from 1942 mistakenly made their way into the presses in 1943, resulting in a highly sought-after error coin. Only a handful are known to exist, and they can command $100,000 to $250,000, depending on their condition. If you spot a brownish 1943 penny (as opposed to the typical silver-colored steel one), you might just be sitting on a goldmine.
1958 Double Die Lincoln Penny
Next up is the 1958 Double Die Penny, a coin that showcases an eye-catching and dramatic mint error. Double die coins occur when the coin’s image is stamped twice, slightly misaligned. The 1958 version features prominent doubling in the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Fewer than three dozen authentic examples are known, making this coin incredibly rare. Prices at auction have ranged from $50,000 to over $150,000, with pristine specimens fetching top dollar.
1922 Plain Lincoln Penny
At first glance, the 1922 Plain Penny might not seem remarkable, but its value lies in what’s missing: the mintmark. That year, all pennies were produced at the Denver Mint and should carry a “D” mintmark. However, due to a worn die, a small number were struck with no mintmark at all. These coins are rare and highly collectible, especially in high grades. A well-preserved 1922 Plain Penny can easily sell for $15,000 to $30,000.
A piggy bank might seem like a place for small change, but for some, it’s been a hidden vault of riches. Lincoln Wheat Pennies are known for their hidden gems, from mint errors to rare years, and they’re often found in the most unexpected places. If you have an old piggy bank, jar, or even wallet full of coins, now’s the time to take a second look. The penny that changes your financial future might be hiding in plain sight.
FAQ’s:
1. How do I know if my penny is valuable?
Check for rare dates, mintmarks, and visible errors. Use online guides or consult a coin expert.
2. What makes the 1943 Copper Penny special?
It’s a rare wartime mint error—most 1943 pennies were made of steel, not copper.
3. Are double die pennies easy to spot?
Yes, look closely at the text—doubling is visible on words like “LIBERTY.”
4. Where can I sell a rare penny?
Auction houses, coin dealers, and online marketplaces—preferably after grading.
5. Can a piggy bank penny really pay off a mortgage?
Absolutely. Some rare pennies are worth six figures if authenticated.