Are you sitting on a hidden fortune without even knowing it? A strange and extremely rare error coin — the 1983 “WETRUS” Lincoln Penny — is sending shockwaves through the numismatic world. Only a few confirmed examples exist, and the next one could easily be hiding inside your change jar, old purse, or piggy bank! 😱💰
Let’s break it down step by step so you can quickly identify whether YOU might have the next million-dollar penny.
🧨 Why This Strange Penny Could Be Worth Up to $1,000,000
Few coins capture collector attention like this bizarre 1983 error. Here’s what makes it so valuable:
🔥 Key Features
✔️ Motto Error (“WETRUS”) – The famous “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears missing or malformed.
✔️ Only 3 Confirmed Specimens – Ultra-rare and heavily sought after.
✔️ Denver Mint Only – All known examples show a tiny “D” mintmark.
✔️ Record Price – A high-grade MS65+ Red sold privately for $150,000, and collectors are offering seven-figure rewards for a new discovery.
✔️ Historic Year – 1983 was a crucial transition period from copper to zinc pennies, increasing error likelihood.
🔍 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Identify a Real 1983 “WETRUS” Penny
Follow these steps like a checklist:
Step 1: Look at the Motto
Flip your 1983 penny and check the top.
❗ Does it say “WETRUS” instead of “IN GOD WE TRUST”?
❗ Do you see a “D” mintmark? (Denver only)
If YES → Continue!
Step 2: Weigh the Coin
This separates common coins from rare transitional errors.
⚖️ 3.11 grams = Copper (RARE, big money!)
⚖️ 2.5 grams = Zinc (still possibly valuable if error is present)
Use a small digital scale — they cost less than $10 online.
Step 3: Magnify the Details
Get a closer look.
🔎 Use a jeweler’s loupe (10x)
🔎 Look for misshaped or missing letters
🔎 Examine the entire motto carefully
Sharp, clean lettering suggests it may be genuine.
💸 2025 Value Chart — How Much Is It Really Worth?
| Grade | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| Circulated | $50,000 – $75,000 |
| MS63 Red | ~$100,000 |
| MS65+ Red Certified | $1,000,000+ |
Collectors are fighting fiercely for any new discovery.
⚠️ Common Fakes to Avoid
Because this coin can reach seven figures, counterfeits are everywhere.
❌ Laser-etched letters
❌ Acid-altered motto
❌ Wrong weight (always verify!)
❌ Missing mintmark or incorrect font
If something feels “off,” get it authenticated.
🧤 What To Do If You Think You Found One
Treat it like treasure — because it might be! 🏆
✔️ Handle only with gloves
✔️ Hold by the rim
✔️ Take clear photos in natural light
✔️ Never clean the coin (value drops instantly!)
Next step? Professional authentication.
Submit to:
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
After certification, insure it immediately.
🆓 FREE Authentication Help
Send your photos for a quick, expert pre-check:
📸 Email: WETRUS@ErrorCoinVerify.com
📱 Text: “WETRUSFIND” to 555-1983 for secure verification + 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 almost threw away $100,000!”
Yes. It happens more often than you’d think.
🪙 Why Collectors Love This Coin
The 1983 “WETRUS” penny is becoming a legend because:
✨ Less than 5 known examples
✨ Full motto replacement error, not just doubling
✨ Could still be hiding anywhere
✨ Part of an important coinage transition era
💡 Pro Tip
Check ALL pennies from 1982, 1983, and 1984 — the copper-to-zinc transition created many rare errors worth thousands.
🚨 Final Warning: Your $1M Penny Could Be Sitting in a Jar Right Now!
Don’t wait.
👉 Check your change
👉 Search old boxes, jars, drawers
👉 Share this article — someone might thank you later with a steak dinner 😆
👉 Contact us if you need help selling a rare find
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