The Lincoln Wheat penny is one of the most iconic and historically significant coins in the United States. With a history that dates back to 1909, this penny has seen many changes in design and value over the years. While most Lincoln Wheat pennies are worth only a few cents, one particular coin recently made headlines when it was valued at a staggering $6.1 million. What makes this penny so valuable, and how is it still in circulation? Let’s dive into the fascinating story behind this remarkable coin.
What is the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
The Lincoln Wheat penny was first introduced by the U.S. Mint in 1909 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. The coin features the image of President Lincoln on the obverse (front) and two stalks of wheat on the reverse (back). This wheat design, which was created by engraver Victor David Brenner, is where the coin gets its name. The Lincoln Wheat penny remained in circulation until 1958, after which it was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial penny.
While most Lincoln Wheat pennies are made of copper and worth only one cent, some rare versions of the coin have become highly sought after by collectors. These rare pennies can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on factors like rarity, condition, and minting errors.
