The Ultimate Guide to Finding the $999 Million Lincoln Wheat Penny

There are some stories in the world of coins that amaze individuals in an incredible way. Imagine a penny that appears like a regular coin could be worth millions of dollars! This is not only a thrilling idea to numismatists but one that also captivates everyday individuals. Though some of them are nothing but legends, the hope of stumbling upon an out-of-the-way and priceless coin is something that is very much alive to most.

Lincoln Wheat Penny: A Coin from the Past

The history of the Lincoln Wheat Penny begins in 1909, when the United States Mint (US Mint) released it as a tribute to Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday anniversary. The coin has been a part of US currency ever since, but some special coins have become so rare and precious that they are now considered to be real treasures.

Most Valuable Lincoln Wheat Penny

Some of the error issues have brought a lot of money over the years, especially when they had production flaws or came out in limited quantities. Let us take a look at some of the most valuable and scarce Lincoln Wheat pennies.

1943 Copper Penny – Historical Error Turns into Priceless Treasure

The 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny was meant to be made of steel due to the shortage of copper during World War II. However, some copper blanks from 1942 were inadvertently used and some coins were made of copper. Today, this mistake has made one of the most valuable coins in the US. Some 1943 copper pennies have been auctioned for over $1 million.

1909 V.D.B. Lincoln Penny – Miniature Stamp, High Price

When the Lincoln Wheat Penny first appeared in 1909, the reverse included the initials “VDB,” those of the designer Victor David Brenner. However, shortly afterwards, they were removed under popular protest. Even so, fewer than some 484,000 of them had been manufactured up to then. A mint-state 1909 V.D.B. Lincoln Wheat Penny is worth over $100,000.

Is a Lincoln Wheat Penny potentially worth up to $999 Billion?

It is said by some that a few Lincoln Wheat Pennies cost up to $999 Billion. But this fact is not confirmed. It is true that rare coins on specific occasions are sold for millions of dollars when auctioned, but such a high amount is a mere imagination in one’s mind.

How does the value of coins determine?

If you are interested in finding out how much your Lincoln Wheat Penny is worth, there are some key things to keep in mind.

1. Authenticity
   • The authenticity of any coin determines its value. To verify its authenticity, experts examine the weight, mintmark, and condition. For instance, an authentic Lincoln Wheat Penny that weighs 3.11 grams, without any alteration, can be highly valuable.
2. Condition & Preservation
   • Keeping a coin also affects its value. If a coin is unstained, unscratched, and in Mint State, then it will be worth thousands of dollars. We recommend never to clean coins because it might devalue their price. Keep them in a good capsule or plastic holder.

How to know whether you have a rare coin?

If you believe that you possess a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny, consult a professional numismatist or official grading service (PCGS, NGC) to verify it. They can confirm the actual price of the coin and authenticity.

Could You Find a Treasure in Your Pocket?

Though unusual Lincoln Wheat Pennies are unlikely, there is always hope. If you possess a collection of old coins or come across a 1909 VDB, 1943 Copper, or other unusual issue, don’t be so eager to spend it. This could be your chance at stardom!

Conclusion

The history of the Lincoln Wheat Penny illustrates how a small error or a minimal amount of production can make a coin rare. All coins are not just pieces of common change, but priceless pieces of history too. Whether or not you wish to start a coin collecting habit, be in the practice of giving good, hard inspections to your older coins whenever you come across them—you might have money in your pocket!

FAQ’s