**This Penny in Circulation is Worth $85,000 – Here’s How to Spot It**

This Penny in Circulation is Worth $85,000 – Here’s How to Spot It**

Have you ever wondered if the spare change in your pocket could be worth a small fortune? It might sound unbelievable, but there’s a penny out there that could fetch you $85,000. This isn’t just any penny; it’s a rare gem that collectors are eager to get their hands on. Here’s everything you need to know about spotting this valuable coin.

The Legendary Penny

The penny in question is the 1943 Lincoln penny. During World War II, copper was in high demand for wartime production, so the U.S. Mint decided to make pennies out of steel coated with zinc. However, a few copper pennies from 1943 slipped through the cracks and ended up in circulation.

Key Features to Identify

1. **Date and Material**: Look for the date 1943. The rare penny should be made of copper, not the standard steel of that year.
2. **Weight**: A copper 1943 penny weighs about 3.11 grams, whereas a steel penny weighs 2.7 grams.
3. **Color**: Copper pennies have a distinct reddish-brown color, while steel pennies appear more silver-grey.

How to Confirm Authenticity

1. **Magnet Test**: Use a magnet to test the penny. Copper is not magnetic, so if your 1943 penny sticks to the magnet, it’s made of steel.
2. **Professional Appraisal**: For a definitive answer, have the penny evaluated by a professional coin appraiser or send it to a reputable grading service.

Why So Valuable?

The rarity of the copper 1943 penny makes it incredibly valuable. Only a few are known to exist, and each one is a prized possession for coin collectors. The $85,000 price tag comes from auction results, where these pennies have fetched high prices due to their scarcity and historical significance.

Conclusion

Next time you’re sorting through your loose change, take a closer look. You might just find a 1943 copper penny hiding in plain sight. With a bit of luck and the right penny, you could turn a single cent into a small fortune.

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