PCGS, Dean Drobot, Pexels de Burst Lincoln Wheat Penny Worth $2 Million in March: a True Fortune
The unexpected value of some one-cent coins surprises a good number of collectors.
In the world of numismatics, some coins stand out not only for their historical value but also for their exceptional rarity and price. Among these, there are some pennies that have achieved legendary status, with values exceeding millions of dollars.
While most circulating coins don't have significant value beyond their face value, some exceptional ones have captivated collectors worldwide. As 2025 progresses, we discover what makes these coins unique and why their value keeps rising.
1943-D Lincoln Wheat Cent: Bronze/Copper
The 1943-D Lincoln Wheat Cent in bronze is at the pinnacle of rare United States coins. Few coins of this type are known to exist, which gives them extraordinary value. This piece is the most desired by collectors due to its rare composition and its history linked to World War II.
During that conflict, the United States Mint temporarily replaced copper with steel in pennies to reserve the metal for the war effort. However, an error allowed some 1942 copper planchets to remain in the production line. As a result, a small number of pennies were minted in 1943 with a bronze alloy, with the Denver coin being the rarest and most valuable of all.
Key Features of the 1943-D Lincoln Wheat Cent
This penny is one of the most desired coins due to its extreme rarity. The value of the piece not only comes from its manufacturing error but also from its condition and the historical impact related to World War II.
The 1943-D is composed of 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc. It weighs 3.11 grams (0.11 oz) and has a diameter of 19 mm (0.75 in.), making it easily recognizable to experienced collectors. Its metallic luster and fine details also contribute to its high value and demand.
In recent years, the value of this coin has been increasing. The last recorded sale reached more than 2M dollars, reflecting the constant demand and legendary status in the world of numismatics. Although there are many rare coins, none have such a fascinating history or extreme scarcity as this 1943-D penny.
This type of coin rarely appears on the market, and its price continues to grow due to the increasing popularity of numismatics as an investment. If you ever find one of these pennies in your wallet, you could be holding one of the most valuable pieces in history.
More posts: