In the coin collecting world, one hears all the time that some of the old and valuable coins are still in use. Sometimes the things seem like fake, however now one such aspect has raised pleasure a few of the population once again. It is being said that a coin by the name Lincoln Wheat Penny, that could fetch as much as $144,000 (approximately Rs 1.2 crore), may still be someplace hidden.
What is Lincoln Wheat Penny?
Lincoln Wheat Penny is also known as ” White “. It was originally released in 1909 , which was removed on the 100th anniversary of the birth of the then US President Abraham Lincoln . It was the American coin to initiate to portray the face of a real human (Lincoln). It was big news back then.
There are two ears of wheat on the reverse side of the coin – this is why it was called “Wheat Penny”. This coin become in move till 1958. Generally these coins aren’t that valuable, but cash with a few unique years, mint mark (wherein they’re produced) or with the aid of errors can price heaps and lakhs of rupees.
Why is the coin worth $144,000 so special?
The Wheat Penny that its rate is being said to be $144,000 is in truth the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent. The coin changed into made by way of error by way of the US Mint and now it is one of the rarest and pricey coins.
Actually, in 1943 there has been a terrific call for for copper in America because of World War II, so all the one cent coins of that year had been constructed from metallic. But through mistakes some antique 1942 bronze coins had been stored in the device and that they too had been stamped with 1943.
This error now makes them irreplaceable.
This coin appears to be a regular Wheatie by a naked-eye look, but its existence is something else. To date, only a handful of such original coins have been discovered in the world. In 2019, one such coin was auctioned for $204,000, and in recent times another coin was said to have been sold privately for $144,000.
Can such a coin still be in circulation?
Though it is extremely rare that this coin exists, specialists are of the opinion that there is a possibility that this coin could be lying in an old piggy bank, a pouch of coins, or the till of a supermarket. Since this coin resembles other vintage pennies, it is hard for the average person to recognize it.
This also implies that if you observe old coins with attention, your fortune could shine.
How to check if your 1943 coin is real bronze or not?
If you are curious if you too possess such a valuable coin, then you can test it using some simple tests provided below:
- See the year – 1943 must be legibly written on the coin.
- See the color –
- Steel coins are light silver in color like silver.
- Bronze coins are of brown-red color similar to old copper.
- Do the magnet test –
- Steel coins adhere to the magnet.
- If your 1943 coin does not adhere to the magnet, then it could be bronze.
- Check the weight –
- Bronze coins weigh around 3.11 grams.
- Steel coins weigh less — around 2.7 grams.
If your coin has survived all these tests, have it graded and examined by a reputable institution, like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation). These organizations give certificates, which determine the actual value of the coin.
Avoid counterfeit coins
Since the cost of this coin is quite high, the quantity of counterfeit coins has also grown. Some individuals coat steel coins from earlier years with copper, so they seem as genuine coins. Some even slice a coin of 1948 and make it appear like 1943. So never jump to conclusions at home — always get it verified by an expert.
Conclusion: A small coin, big hopes
A tiny coin created accidentally is crores today. The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny is not only precious for the collectors of coins, but also a story of history. Perhaps, the next time you are counting your old coins, you might discover the same “treasure”.
So what’s there to wait for? Begin dusting your old coins – who knows your luck might change!
FAQs
1. What is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, first released in 1909, features Abraham Lincoln and wheat stalks. It was used until 1958 and is collectible—especially rare versions like the 1943 bronze.
2. Why is the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny so valuable?
In 1943, pennies were meant to be made from steel due to wartime copper needs. A few bronze coins were mistakenly minted, making them extremely rare and worth lakhs.
3. How much is the 1943 Bronze Penny worth?
Depending on condition, the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent has sold for up to $204,000. A recent private sale valued one at approximately $144,000 (about ₹1.2 crore).
Shreya Singh is a dedicated financial journalist known for her in-depth coverage of government programs and economic updates. She consistently delivers accurate information on U.S. topics such as Stimulus Checks, IRS announcements, and federal relief efforts. Shreya also reports on UK welfare programs, covering developments in Universal Credit, PIP, and DWP news. Her clarity and commitment to trustworthy reporting have earned her a loyal following among readers seeking insightful financial updates.
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