Think rare coins are only made of gold or silver? Think again. Some of the most valuable coins in the U.S. are actually made of copper — and they could be hiding in your spare change right now. The Lincoln Wheat penny, minted from 1909 to 1958, is more than just a piece of history — certain rare varieties are worth hundreds, thousands, and even over $100,000.
Here’s a breakdown of seven valuable Wheat pennies you might already own — and why it’s worth checking your coin jar today.
1. 1909-S VDB – The Iconic First Edition
This is the holy grail for Lincoln penny collectors. The 1909-S VDB was the first Wheat penny to hit circulation and included the initials of its designer, Victor David Brenner, on the reverse. However, public backlash over the prominent “VDB” led to its removal — after just 484,000 coins were minted.
Estimated value: $700–$1,000 in circulated condition; over $60,000 for uncirculated examples.
2. 1914-D – A Key Date With Big Value
Produced by the Denver Mint, the 1914-D Lincoln Wheat penny had a low mintage of fewer than 1.2 million. Finding one in good condition is a true challenge, making it one of the most sought-after regular-issue Lincoln cents.
Estimated value: $200–$400 in worn condition; $5,000 to $10,000+ for well-preserved examples.
3. 1922 “No D” – The Mintmark That Went Missing
In 1922, only the Denver Mint produced pennies. But due to a worn die, some coins were struck without the signature “D” mintmark — creating the famous “No D” 1922 Lincoln penny. This isn’t a design variation — it’s a rare minting error that’s worth big bucks.
Estimated value: Starts at $500; high-grade versions can top $10,000.
4. 1943 Bronze Penny – A World War II Mistake
To save copper for wartime needs, the U.S. Mint switched to steel-coated zinc pennies in 1943. However, a few bronze planchets from 1942 accidentally remained in the system — and were struck into 1943 coins.
Estimated value: Between $100,000 and $250,000, depending on condition.
5. 1944 Steel Penny – The Reverse Error
This is the flip side of the 1943 bronze penny. In 1944, the Mint resumed copper production, but a few leftover steel blanks from 1943 were mistakenly used. These 1944 steel Wheat pennies are extremely rare.
Estimated value: Up to $100,000 at auction.
6. 1955 Doubled Die – The Famous Error Coin
Known for its dramatic visual effect, the 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln penny features clearly doubled inscriptions, especially in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This error happened during the minting process when the die struck the coin twice at a slightly offset angle.
Estimated value: $1,000 to $10,000+, based on condition and clarity of the doubling.
7. 1931-S – A Low Mintage Depression-Era Rarity
During the Great Depression, demand for new coins dropped. As a result, only 866,000 pennies were minted in San Francisco in 1931 — one of the lowest mintages in the Wheat penny series. Despite being a regular-issue coin, it remains highly collectible.
Estimated value: $75–$300 circulated; over $1,000 for uncirculated coins.
Final Thoughts: Check That Change Jar
While most Wheat pennies are only worth a few cents above face value, these seven rare coins can be worth life-changing sums. Whether buried in a piggy bank, stashed in a dresser drawer, or passed down through generations, these small copper coins might be hiding real treasure.
Even if you’re not a serious collector, taking a few minutes to sort through your old pennies might pay off. After all, the next valuable find could be sitting quietly in your pocket change right now.
Tip: Never clean old coins before getting them appraised — doing so can significantly reduce their value.