A surprising discovery is shaking the coin world: a bizarre 1983 Lincoln cent with the word “WETRUS” instead of the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” may be worth up to $1,000,000 — and the next one could be sitting in your change jar right now.
🧨 Found One? Here’s Why It Could Be Worth $1 Million:
- Motto Error “WETRUS” – A dramatic mint blunder where the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” is missing or malformed (only 3 confirmed worldwide).
- Denver Mint Origin – All found specimens bear a “D” mintmark.
- Top Grade Jackpot – The highest-graded version (MS65+ Red) sold privately for $150,000, and collectors are offering 7-figure bounties for another.
- Transitional Period – 1983 was a critical year in U.S. penny production, adding historical weight to this error.
🔍 How to Tell If You Found the Million-Dollar Coin:

Step 1: Flip your 1983 penny
- ❗ Does it say “WETRUS” instead of “IN GOD WE TRUST”?
- 🪙 Does it have a “D” mintmark (Denver)?
Step 2: Weigh it
- ⚖️ 3.11g = Copper (rare)
- ⚖️ 2.5g = Zinc (common)
Step 3: Magnify the Details
- Look for a clearly malformed motto.
- Use a jeweler’s loupe (10x) for inspection.
💸 What It’s Worth (Estimated 2025 Values):
Grade | Value |
---|---|
Circulated | $50,000–$75,000 |
MS63 Red | $100,000 |
MS65+ Red (Certified) | $1,000,000! |
⚠️ Watch Out for Fakes:
- ❌ Laser-etched counterfeits
- ❌ Modified motto with tools or acid
- ❌ Wrong metal weight (always verify)
🧤 If You Think You’ve Got One:
- Handle with care – Use gloves, hold by the edges.
- Photograph in natural light – Capture both sides clearly.
- Do NOT clean the coin – It lowers the value.
- Get it certified – Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication.
- Insure it immediately – Contact a numismatic insurance provider.
🆓 Free Authentication Offer:
📸 Email sharp, high-resolution photos to
WETRUS@ErrorCoinVerify.com
📱 Or text “WETRUSFIND” to 555-1983 for secure verification and armored transport options.
🗣️ Real Story from a Lucky Finder:
“I used mine as a washer for a DECADE before a friend pointed it out. I nearly threw away $100,000!”
🪙 Why Collectors Are Obsessed:
- ✅ Ultra-low population: <5 known!
- ✅ It’s a full replacement error, not just doubling.
- ✅ Could still be hiding in bank rolls, junk drawers, or old piggy banks.
💡 Tip from the Pros: Check all pennies from 1982–1984 — the U.S. Mint transitioned from copper to zinc, and rare errors are scattered throughout those years.
🚨 Don’t Wait — Your $1 Million Penny Could Be Closer Than You Think!
👉 Go check your change right now.
👉 Share this with a friend — they might owe you dinner if they strike gold!
👉 Want help selling it? We’ll connect you with private buyers and major auction houses.
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