While most wheat pennies are worth just their face value of one cent, certain rare editions can be worth thousands or even millions of dollars to collectors. These rare wheat pennies are highly sought after due to minting errors, low production numbers, or unique historical significance. If you’ve come across a wheat penny in your collection or in your spare change, it could be more valuable than you think!
Here are 8 wheat pennies that could fetch a big fortune—and there’s a chance you might have one in your possession!
1. 1943 Copper Wheat Penny
The 1943 copper wheat penny is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. During World War II, most pennies were struck from steel due to copper shortages. However, a small number were mistakenly struck on copper planchets, making them incredibly rare. A 1943 copper penny can be worth anywhere from $100,000 to over $1 million, depending on its condition and rarity.
2. 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny
The 1909-S VDB wheat penny is a highly coveted coin due to its unique history. The initials VDB, for the engraver Victor David Brenner, were originally placed on the reverse of the coin. Due to public backlash, these initials were removed after only a small number were minted. As a result, this penny is considered one of the rarest and most valuable wheat pennies, with well-preserved versions worth $500,000 to over $1 million.
3. 1914-D Wheat Penny
The 1914-D wheat penny is another rare and valuable coin due to its low mintage at the Denver mint. Because fewer coins were produced, high-quality 1914-D pennies are extremely difficult to find. A coin in great condition can fetch as much as $200,000 or more, making it a highly prized find among collectors.
4. 1922 Plain Wheat Penny
The 1922 wheat penny with no mintmark (known as the “Plain” penny) is a rare coin due to a minting error. While most of the 1922 pennies were struck with a “D” mintmark, a handful of them were accidentally struck without it, making them highly valuable. Depending on the coin’s condition, a 1922 Plain penny can be worth $20,000 to $50,000.
5. 1931-S Wheat Penny
The 1931-S wheat penny is another rare coin with a low mintage. Due to its scarcity, the 1931-S penny is highly sought after, especially in high-grade condition. In good condition, it can be worth $10,000 or more, and in excellent condition, it could command up to $50,000.
6. 1924-D Wheat Penny
The 1924-D wheat penny is rare, especially in higher grades. While it isn’t as famous as some other wheat pennies, its low mintage and the difficulty of finding it in good condition make it a valuable find. A 1924-D penny can be worth anywhere from $500 to $10,000, with higher grades fetching even more.
7. 1910-S Wheat Penny
The 1910-S wheat penny is a rare coin that can be worth thousands of dollars due to its low mintage. While it isn’t one of the most famous error coins, collectors still value it highly for its scarcity and historical significance. Depending on its condition, a 1910-S penny can be worth anywhere from $1,000 to $20,000.
8. 1955 Double Die Wheat Penny
The 1955 double die wheat penny is an error coin that is particularly popular among collectors. The error happened when the coin was struck multiple times, resulting in a double image on the obverse, especially around the word “LIBERTY” and the date. This error makes it highly desirable, with 1955 double die pennies valued anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on their condition.
How to Identify Valuable Wheat Pennies
If you think you might have one of these valuable wheat pennies, here are some tips on how to identify them:
- Look for Minting Errors: Coins with double die strikes, missing mintmarks, or other irregularities are often worth much more than regular pennies. Inspect the design closely for any doubled lettering or unusual features.
- Check the Year and Mintmark: The year and mintmark can significantly affect the value of your coin. Rare years such as 1909-S, 1914-D, and 1922 Plain are particularly valuable, while the mintmark (like S for San Francisco or D for Denver) can help identify rarer coins.
- Examine the Condition: The condition of the coin is crucial. Coins in excellent condition with minimal wear and clear details are worth much more than coins that are worn down. Look for sharp features and little to no discoloration. Coins that are graded MS-65 or higher are particularly valuable.
- Get It Appraised: If you think you have one of these rare wheat pennies, it’s always a good idea to have it appraised by a professional numismatist or coin dealer. They can give you an accurate assessment of the coin’s value and help you determine whether it’s worth selling.
Conclusion
While most wheat pennies are worth only a few cents, certain rare editions can be worth thousands or even millions of dollars. From the 1943 copper penny to the 1909-S VDB, these coins are incredibly valuable due to minting errors or low mintage numbers. If you come across any wheat pennies, especially from the years listed above, don’t spend them before getting them appraised—you could be holding a rare treasure worth a small fortune!
