1916 Lincoln Wheat Penny: Fact-Checking the $1.45 Million Claim

At Pennyverse.info, we prioritize accurate valuations. While the linked article claims a 1916 Lincoln Wheat Penny is worth $1.45 million, here’s the truth about its value and how to identify rare exceptions.

Reality Check: 1916 Wheat Penny Value

Standard Valuations

• Key Fact: The 1916-D is the semi-key date of the series, but no 1916 penny (even in perfect MS-67+ Red) has sold for over $10,000.

Why the $1.45 Million Claim Is Likely False

1. No Recorded Sales: PCGS and NGC show no 1916 Wheat Pennies sold for over $10,000.
2. Confusion with Other Coins: The 1916 Mercury Dime (not a penny) or 1943 Copper Cent might be the source of confusion.
3. Sensationalism: Clickbait articles often inflate values to attract readers.

Exception: Errors That Increase Value

While standard 1916 pennies aren’t ultra-valuable, these errors could boost worth:

1. 1916 Doubled Die Obverse:
   • Doubling on “IN GOD WE TRUST” or date.
   • Value: 500–500–5,000+ (if certified).
2. Off-Center Strikes:
   • 50%+ misalignment.
   • Value: 100–100–1,000.

Actual Million-Dollar Pennies

If you’re hunting for seven-figure coins, focus on:

1. 1943 Copper Penny:
   • Only 10–15 exist.
   • Recent sale: $1.7 million (MS-63).
2. 1909-S VDB Penny:
   • Low mintage (484,000).
   • MS-67 Red sold for $1.2 million.

How to Verify Your 1916 Penny

1. Check the Mintmark:
   • 1916 (No mintmark): Philadelphia.
   • 1916-D: Denver (rare, but not $1M rare).
2. Use a 10x Loupe: Look for doubling or errors.
3. Weigh It: Should be 3.11g (copper alloy).

Where to Sell Legitimate Rarities

1. Heritage Auctions: For certified errors/grades.
2. PCGS/NGC Certification: Mandatory for coins over $1,000.

⚠️ Avoid Scams:

• Never trust unsolicited “buyers” offering millions.
• Verify claims against PCGS CoinFacts.

Think you have a rare error? Submit photos to our experts for a free appraisal.

For reliable valuations, bookmark Pennyverse.info – your trusted source for honest numismatic insights!