It sounds unbelievable, but rumors have spread about a Lincoln Wheat Penny being worth a jaw-dropping $333 million. Could such a coin really exist? Could it still be hiding in someone’s pocket change or a dusty coin jar?
Let’s break down the facts, the myths, and what you should actually be looking for.
The Real Story Behind the Lincoln Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was introduced in 1909 to celebrate the 100th birthday of Abraham Lincoln. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person. On the front is Lincoln’s profile, and on the back are two wheat stalks. This design ran until 1958 and has since become a favorite among collectors.
While most of these pennies are worth just one cent, some rare versions are worth thousands—or even millions—of dollars due to errors, low mintage, or historical value.
Is There Really a $333 Million Penny?
The idea of a Lincoln Wheat Penny being worth $333 million is almost certainly an exaggeration or internet myth. No verified sale or appraisal has ever reached that kind of number. Even the rarest 1943 copper penny, one of the most famous error coins, has sold for up to $1.7 million, not hundreds of millions.
So no, there is no officially recognized $333 million Lincoln penny. However, this wild number reflects how much excitement and hype rare coins can generate—and how valuable they can be under the right circumstances.
The Most Valuable Lincoln Pennies (That Actually Exist)
Here are a few of the most valuable and real Lincoln Wheat Pennies ever sold:
- 1943 Copper Penny – Worth $1 million+ because it was mistakenly struck in copper instead of steel.
- 1909-S VDB Penny – Only 484,000 made. Valued up to $100,000 in top condition.
- 1955 Doubled Die – A mint error with doubled letters. Often sells for $10,000–$50,000.
- 1914-D Penny – Low mintage. Can sell for tens of thousands depending on condition.
Could You Have a Rare Penny in Your Change?
Yes—it’s possible (though rare). Here’s how to check:
- Look at the date – Key years include 1909-S, 1914-D, 1922 (no mint mark), 1931-S, and 1943.
- Test with a magnet – The 1943 steel penny will stick. If it doesn’t, and it’s a 1943, it might be a rare copper version.
- Look for errors – Doubling of letters, off-center prints, or strange colors can mean big value.
- Check the mint mark – “D” is Denver, “S” is San Francisco, and no letter means Philadelphia.
What To Do If You Find a Special Penny
- Do NOT clean it. That can ruin its value.
- Use gloves or hold it by the edges.
- Store it safely in a coin holder or soft case.
- Get it authenticated by a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC.
- Consider a coin dealer or auction if it’s truly rare.
Final Thought
While a $333 million Lincoln Wheat Penny is likely just a myth, it’s true that some rare pennies can bring in life-changing money. These old coins are pieces of American history—and some are still waiting to be discovered.
So before you ignore that next penny you find on the ground… pick it up and take a closer look. It might not be worth hundreds of millions, but it could still surprise you.