Here’s How To Spot It – This Penny In Circulation is Worth $85,000

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Here’s How To Spot It – This Penny in Circulation Is Worth $85,000

You might want to check your change jar, wallet, or even that dusty cup holder in your car — because one little coin could be hiding in plain sight and be worth a jaw-dropping $85,000.

That’s right. Among the billions of pennies in circulation, there’s one special variety that collectors would pay a small fortune for. The best part? It could already be in your pocket.

Let’s break down what this rare penny is, why it’s so valuable, and how you can spot it before accidentally spending it on a pack of gum.

🪙 The Penny in Question: The 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent

In 1943, during World War II, the U.S. Mint made a major change to the penny. To save copper for war materials, they started making pennies out of zinc-coated steel — giving them a silver-like appearance instead of the usual coppery tone.

But here’s where things get interesting…

A tiny handful of 1943 pennies were accidentally struck using the old copper planchets (blanks used before switching to steel). Experts estimate only a few dozen exist today — and because of their extreme rarity, these copper 1943 pennies are considered some of the most valuable coins in U.S. history.

💰 How Much Is It Worth?

Depending on condition, a genuine 1943 copper penny can sell for anywhere between $60,000 to over $100,000. One sold at auction for $85,000, and others have fetched even more when in near-mint condition.

This isn’t a collector’s myth — it’s a real coin that has shown up in everyday circulation and even in childhood coin collections.

🔍 How to Spot the $85,000 Penny

Here’s what to look for:

✅ 1. Check the Date: 1943

Flip that penny and look closely. If it says “1943” — stop right there. That’s your first clue.

✅ 2. Check the Color: Is It Copper or Silver?

• Regular 1943 pennies were made of steel and appear silver/gray.
• The valuable ones are the same 1943 date but look like normal copper pennies (reddish-brown color).

If you find a 1943 penny that’s copper-colored, it might be the real deal.