The Hidden Fortune Sitting in Your Change Jar 
What if that old penny in your drawer is worth more than your car — or even your house? 
It might sound unbelievable, but the 1942-S Lincoln Wheat Cent could be hiding rare minting errors that send its value soaring up to $200,000 or more! 
Let’s break down what makes this WWII-era coin so special — and how to check if you’ve got a small fortune in your pocket change.
Why the 1942-S Penny Is So Important
Massive Mintage: Over 85 million 1942-S pennies were struck — most are ordinary, but a few have spectacular mistakes.
Wartime Transition: These coins were minted right before the U.S. switched to steel cents in 1943 to conserve copper for WWII.
Error Potential: The rush to produce billions led to some fascinating mint errors — tiny details that can make a coin worth a fortune.
“High-speed wartime production meant high risk for mint mistakes,” says coin expert James Rawlins.
“And when those mistakes survive in perfect condition, collectors will pay a premium — sometimes life-changing money.”
Could a 1942-S Penny Really Be Worth $200,000? 
It’s rare, but yes — the right combination of mint errors and condition can make a 1942-S penny worth up to $200,000 (theoretically or under auction conditions).
To reach that value, a coin would need:
Major Doubled Die Obverse – doubling in “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
Doubled Die Reverse – visible doubling in “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
Wrong Planchet / Mule / Multi-Error Combo – struck on the wrong metal, or with mismatched dies.
These combinations are the holy grail for coin collectors — rare, dramatic, and extremely valuable.
Step-by-Step: How to Check Your 1942-S Wheat Penny
Grab a magnifier (10×–20×) or a USB microscope, and follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Confirm the Coin
Check the date — it must read 1942 and have an “S” mintmark (below the date).
Step 2: Inspect “IN GOD WE TRUST” (Obverse Side)
Look closely at the motto.
- Are the letters slightly doubled or shadowed?
- Tilt under good lighting — real doubling looks sharp and raised, not fuzzy.
Step 3: Inspect “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (Reverse Side)
Look for split lines or separation in the letters above “ONE CENT.”
This is a strong sign of a Doubled Die Reverse.
Step 4: Look for Other Rare Errors
Die Chips – tiny raised bumps or blobs on Lincoln’s face or letters
Off-Center Strikes – part of the design is missing or misaligned
Struck Through Debris – faint ghostlike patches or missing details
Step 5: Damage ≠ Error
Mint errors are raised and intentional-looking.
Scratches, dents, or wear marks are damage — and kill collector value.
Want Top Dollar? Get It Graded!
To unlock full value, send your coin to:
PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
- ANACS
A certified grade proves authenticity and can double or triple buyer interest.
NEVER clean your coin! Even a soft cloth can destroy its luster and slash its value.
Where to Sell or Get Expert Help
You can sell or appraise your coin through:
eBay or Heritage Auctions
Trusted coin dealers
Coin shows & collectors’ conventions- Online coin forums for preliminary evaluations
Quick Collector Tips for Success
Use a good magnifier
Compare your coin to official error photos online
Be patient — genuine errors are rare but real
When in doubt, get a professional opinion
Why Wheat Pennies Still Capture Hearts
Wheat cents are among the most beloved U.S. coins ever made.
They represent American history, nostalgia, and — for some lucky collectors — life-changing wealth.
Even common ones are fun to collect, but the rare errors?
Those are the stories that make the hobby legendary. 
Think You Found a Rare 1942-S Penny?
Don’t wait — send in clear photos for free preliminary evaluation!
You might just be sitting on the next six-figure discovery.
