A routine visit to a thrift store turned into a jaw-dropping surprise when a shopper discovered a seemingly ordinary penny hidden in an old wallet. That single coin turned out to be worth a staggering $140,000, thanks to a rare mint error that collectors go wild for. With millions of coins in circulation, a few rare ones often end up in places you’d least expect—wallets, jars, drawers, and yes, even thrift store items. In this article, we’ll uncover the incredible story behind this penny and highlight four other Lincoln pennies that could make you rich overnight.
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
The coin found at the thrift store turned out to be none other than a 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny—a legendary mistake from the World War II era. While pennies were intended to be minted in steel to preserve copper for the war effort, a few copper planchets accidentally made it into the presses. Only a handful of these copper 1943 pennies are known to exist, and each one can sell for between $100,000 and $250,000, depending on condition. This is the exact type of penny discovered, tucked away unnoticed for decades.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
Another heavy hitter in the world of rare pennies is the 1909-S VDB, the first year of the Lincoln cent series. The initials “VDB” (for designer Victor David Brenner) appeared on the reverse side but were quickly removed, making early versions with the initials rare—especially those minted in San Francisco. If you come across one, it could easily bring in $50,000 to $100,000 at auction.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
The 1955 Doubled Die Penny is famous for its noticeable doubling of the date and lettering on the obverse side. While many pennies from that year look normal, a select few have this striking mint error. These coins are highly desirable among collectors, with well-preserved examples fetching $10,000 to $50,000. Be sure to check any 1955 penny closely—it might surprise you.
1922 Plain Lincoln Penny
In 1922, all Lincoln cents were produced at the Denver Mint and should carry the “D” mintmark. However, due to a die issue, a small batch was struck without any mintmark at all. These 1922 Plain Lincoln Pennies are now highly sought after, with values reaching up to $30,000, especially for high-grade coins. It’s one of the few U.S. coins where the lack of a mintmark makes it more valuable.
It’s hard to believe that something as small as a penny could be worth more than a luxury car, but it’s true. The discovery of the 1943 Copper Penny in a thrift store wallet serves as a thrilling reminder that life-changing finds could be hiding in plain sight. Whether it’s in your spare change, an old wallet, or a forgotten box, taking the time to inspect your coins could lead to an unexpected fortune.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my 1943 penny is copper or steel?
Try using a magnet. Steel pennies will stick, while copper ones won’t. Also, copper 1943 pennies have a warmer tone and weigh slightly more.
2. What does “VDB” stand for on the 1909 penny?
“VDB” are the initials of Victor David Brenner, the designer of the Lincoln cent. These initials make certain 1909 coins extremely valuable.
3. Why is the 1955 Doubled Die Penny valuable?
It features a prominent minting error where the date and lettering appear doubled, making it a favorite among collectors.
4. Is the 1922 Plain Penny a mistake?
Yes, it’s a result of a minting error where the “D” mintmark was accidentally left off. This makes it rare and valuable.
5. Where can I get my coins appraised?
You can consult certified coin dealers, attend coin shows, or submit your coins to professional grading services like PCGS or NGC.