Lincoln penny found in pocket is worth over $350,000 – Imagine pulling a worn coin out of your pocket and discovering it’s worth more than a house. That’s what happened to one lucky American recently – and it’s sparked new interest in coin collecting across the country. An ordinary Lincoln coin found in a pocket after grocery shopping turned out to be a rare bronze coin from 1943 – now worth more than $350,000.
This surprising discovery is a reminder that there could still be hidden treasures in your spare change jar – and knowing what to look for can be really rewarding.
Why the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny Is So Valuable
To understand why this penny is so special, you need to go back to World War II.
In 1943, copper was a critical wartime resource, so the U.S. Mint began producing pennies made from zinc-coated steel instead of the traditional bronze (which is mostly copper). However, due to a minting error, a small number of bronze blanks — or planchets — from 1942 were accidentally used in 1943. These copper-based coins were struck and somehow released into circulation.
Today, it’s estimated that fewer than 20 authentic 1943 bronze Lincoln cents are known to exist, making them one of the most coveted U.S. coin errors in history.
The Shocking Discovery in Everyday Change
The discovery occurred when a regular shopper took a closer look at their change. One penny felt different — heavier, smoother, and not magnetic. Intrigued, they did some quick research online, then sent the coin to a certified coin grading service.
The results were jaw-dropping: it was an authentic 1943 bronze Lincoln cent.
Once verified by experts at PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), the coin was sent to auction — where it fetched just over $350,000. Auction houses say demand for rare error coins is climbing rapidly, with younger collectors and investors viewing them as unique, tangible assets.
How to Tell If You Have a Rare 1943 Penny
You could be sitting on a small fortune without realizing it. Here’s how to check your pennies for one of these rare mint errors:
1. Check the Date
- Look for 1943 on the coin. Most 1943 pennies are silver-colored (steel), but if yours is brown or copper-colored, it could be a rare bronze version.
2. Do the Magnet Test
- Steel cents stick to a magnet, but bronze (copper-based) ones won’t. If your 1943 penny doesn’t stick to a magnet, it’s worth a closer look.
3. Look for Oddities
- Examine the coin’s weight, color, and feel.
- Look for errors like double dates, misalignments, or off-center strikes — these can significantly raise a coin’s value.
4. Get a Professional Evaluation
- Even if you’re unsure, it’s worth sending your coin to a professional grader.
- Services like PCGS or NGC offer authentication and grading, and for rare coins, the small fee can be a wise investment.
Rare Coin Hunting Is on the Rise
Thanks to stories like this, coin collecting is making a big comeback — especially among younger generations and everyday Americans. Social media groups, YouTube channels, and online forums are filled with tips, success stories, and how-to guides for beginners.
With fewer people using physical coins these days, the value of rare coins is going up, as they become harder to find in circulation.
Where to Look for Rare Coins
If you’re interested in hunting for your own hidden treasure, here are some common places to check:
- Old coin jars and piggy banks
- Change from cash purchases
- Rolls of coins from the bank
- Estate sales and garage sales
- Antique shops or flea markets
You never know what you might uncover — and the payoff could be life-changing.
Final Thoughts: That “Worthless” Penny Could Be Worth Six Figures
The next time you clean out your car’s cupholder or sort through your change, take a second look at those pennies. You might be holding a rare piece of U.S. history — and a potential jackpot.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, one thing’s clear: real change can still bring real treasure.
FAQs: Rare Lincoln Pennies Worth Big Money
What makes a 1943 Lincoln penny valuable?
Most 1943 pennies were made of steel due to wartime copper shortages. A small number were accidentally minted using bronze (copper), making them extremely rare and valuable.
How can I test if my 1943 penny is steel or bronze?
Try the magnet test. Steel pennies will stick to a magnet. Bronze (copper-based) ones will not.
Is it really possible to find a rare penny in circulation?
Yes — although extremely rare, several 1943 bronze pennies and other valuable errors have been discovered in everyday change, especially from old collections or jars.