This Ordinary Penny Could Be Worth Up to $85,000 — and How to Tell If You Have One

Professional evaluation is essential for any coin believed to be unusual. Certified grading services analyze composition, weight, and design details to verify legitimacy. Only authenticated examples carry significant market value.

One of the most famous cases involves a penny dated 1943 that was accidentally struck in copper instead of the standard steel used that year. Because only a small number are known to exist, verified examples have sold for as much as $85,000, depending on condition. These rare coins are a reminder that even the smallest objects can carry remarkable stories—and that sometimes, extraordinary value hides in the most ordinary places.