$138 Million Lincoln Wheat Penny Still in Circulation – Could You Have It?

Have you ever observed those old coins in your wallet? Who knows, one of those coins will turn your fortune. The old American currency has many such coins which would be worth crores today. One of those is Lincoln Wheat Penny whose worth is estimated to be 138 million dollars. Just consider, a coin that is worth only one cent, yet today its worth has gone into millions of dollars. The answer would be, is this rare coin in circulation nowadays? and have you that coin upon you now?

Lincoln Wheat Penny: A glimpse of history

Lincoln Wheat Penny began in 1909. This coin was struck in remembrance of Abraham Lincoln who was the 16 th President of America. The reverse design had two ears of wheat and thus it was named the Wheat Penny. This design was used until 1958 when the design of penny was switched to the portrait of Lincoln Memorial.

The wheat pennies produced in the years 1909 to 1958 are not only historical but also valuable to the collectors. However, there are special editions that have reached incredible values like the copper penny produced by accident in 1943 or special edition coins.

What is special about the $138 million coin?

Now let’s talk about the special wheat penny, which is estimated to be worth $138 million. This figure may sound shocking, but there are solid reasons behind it:

1. Rarity: It is believed that this coin was made in very limited numbers and was minted from the wrong metal (such as bronze or copper), whereas steel coins were to be made that year.
2. Minting Error: Errors during minting sometimes increase the price of a coin manifold. Such errors are also present in this penny, which makes it extremely rare.
3. Exceptional Condition: If this coin is found in ‘mint state’ i.e. unused condition, then its price increases manifold.
4. Historical and Collectible Value: Its historical importance and its demand among collectors also help in skyrocketing its value.

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Is this coin still in circulation?

This is the most exciting question – Is this rare Lincoln Wheat Penny still in circulation?

Experts consider that there are still rare coins that can be found lying unidentified in the possessions of the people. Most are using their old coins without even seeing them or locking them up in boxes and safes. Thus, it could happen that this 138 million dollar coin is still sitting somewhere unrecognized in someone pocket, piggy bank or heap of change.

How to Identify This Rare Coin?

If you have old US coins, they need to be looked at carefully. Here are some things to look for:

• Year: Pay attention to the year the coin is minted, especially the 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, and 1943 bronze pennies.
• Metal: The 1943 copper penny is special because most pennies were made of steel that year.
• Mint Mark: Coins with a “D”, “S”, or no mark indicate their place of manufacture. Coins with certain mint marks are very rare.
• Condition: If the coin is shiny and has no scratches, it may be worth a lot.

What to do if you find such a coin?

If you think you have such a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny, don’t panic. First, show it to a certified numismatic expert or coin dealer. Then:

• Grading – This is an evaluation of the coin’s quality and condition.
• Consider an auction – Sometimes auctions of rare coins can fetch millions or even billions of dollars.
• Ensure authenticity – The number of counterfeit coins is also on the rise, so an expert opinion is important.

It’s Not Just a Coin, It’s a Dream

The Lincoln Wheat Penny shows that history, errors, and rarity may create a mixture that will turn the most common coin into something priceless. It is treasure that may fall in your lap one day- you just need to be a bit aware and search.

So the next time you are looking at the coins in your pocket have a close look at it. Who knows, perhaps one of them is a 138 million dollar treasure – yet today resting in obscurity with some one.

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Conclusion

Old coins are a fascinating mysterious world. The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a great example of such a story. This coin is not just a piece of history, but it also carries the meaning that even our ordinary things are capable of keeping millions worth secrets. So check your old coins (who knows, you may be the next millionaire)!

FAQs

Richard