Imagine finding a single penny worth more than most homes. For one teenager, that dream became a reality after discovering a 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny so rare that a top-grade example recently sold for $1.9 million.
If you have old jars, boxes, or inherited coins, this is one penny you don’t want to overlook.
Why the 1914-D Wheat Penny Is One of the Rarest in U.S. History
The Lincoln Wheat Penny series (1909–1958) contains many collectible dates, but the 1914-D stands out as one of the most valuable. Struck at the Denver Mint during World War I, production numbers were low, and very few high-quality examples survived.
What Makes It So Valuable?
| Feature | Why It Matters | Impact on Value |
|---|---|---|
| Only 1.2 million minted | One of the lowest mintages in the series | Very rare |
| “D” mint mark | Denver coins are far harder to find | 10×–100× premium |
| Key Date Status | Considered one of the top rare Wheat Pennies | High collector demand |
| High-grade examples | Bright red color, sharp strike | Can reach $1.9 million |
| Historic timing | Minted just before wartime metal shortages | Adds historical interest |
The combination of scarcity, condition sensitivity, and collector demand makes this penny one of the most sought-after coins ever minted.
A Real Discovery: The Teen Who Found a Million-Dollar Penny
Seventeen-year-old Jake Thompson of Colorado was cleaning his grandfather’s attic when he found a jar of old coins. Most were common Wheat Pennies — until one stood out.
“I saw the 1914 date and the ‘D’ underneath it,” he told reporters. “I didn’t realize it could be worth anything.”
A coin dealer quickly recognized its potential and recommended professional grading. The penny was certified MS-66+ Red by PCGS — one of the finest known examples.
A few weeks later, it sold at auction for $1,920,000.
How to Identify a Genuine 1914-D Wheat Penny
Think you might have one? Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide.
Step 1 — Check the Date and Mint Mark
- Look for 1914 on the front.
- Under the date, check for a small “D” mint mark.
- If it’s missing, it’s not the rare version.
Step 2 — Inspect Condition
Collectors value:
- Bright red copper color
- Sharp details in Lincoln’s hair, cheek, and coat
- Strong lines in the wheat stalks
Coins that appear cleaned lose significant value.
Step 3 — Get It Professionally Graded
PCGS and NGC can authenticate your penny.
- Grading costs: $30–$300
- Higher grades mean dramatically higher prices.
MS-65 and above examples are extremely rare and can reach six- or seven-figure values.
Updated Market Values (2025)
| Grade | Approx. Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| G-4 (Good) | $150–$250 | Worn but collectible |
| VF-20 (Very Fine) | $600–$900 | Popular among beginners |
| XF-40 (Extremely Fine) | $1,500–$2,500 | Solid mid-tier grade |
| MS-63 Red | $15,000–$25,000 | Investment quality |
| MS-65 Red | $150,000–$300,000 | Premium collector grade |
| MS-66+ Red | $800,000–$1.9 million | Among finest known |
Where Rare 1914-D Pennies Are Found Today
Believe it or not, people continue to find them in ordinary places:
- Old coffee or cookie tins
- Basement or attic storage boxes
- Passed-down coin collections
- Garage sale purchases
- Forgotten safe deposit boxes
- Even inside walls during renovations
A single coin could be hiding in the most unexpected place.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Never clean a coin. Cleaning removes metal and destroys value.
- Avoid uncertified purchases. Many counterfeits exist.
- Be cautious of “too shiny” coins. They may have been polished.
- Always buy or sell with reputable dealers or auction houses.
Could You Be Sitting on a Million-Dollar Penny?
Experts estimate fewer than 75 high-grade examples of the 1914-D remain. That makes it rarer than many gemstones — and far more valuable.
Quick Search Checklist
- Check all Wheat Pennies from 1910–1920
- Look specifically for 1914-D
- Use bright lighting
- Store anything suspicious safely
- Submit for authentication
Even if yours isn’t a million-dollar example, many 1914-D coins still sell for hundreds or thousands.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Search Today
The 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny continues to captivate collectors and treasure hunters alike. With a top example reaching $1.9 million, this tiny copper coin proves that priceless treasures can still be hiding in everyday homes.
Take a few minutes to check your coin jars and inherited collections — you never know what history (and value) you might uncover.