Imagine walking into a pawn shop and spotting an ordinary-looking penny, only to find out it’s worth a small fortune. That’s exactly what happened when a rare 1957 Lincoln Wheat Penny surfaced, capturing the attention of numismatic experts. While most 1957 pennies are common, this particular coin had something unusual—an extremely rare error that made it far more valuable than its one-cent face value. How did this penny end up in a pawn shop, and what made it so special? Let’s explore the fascinating story behind this unexpected discovery and what to look for in your own pocket change.
The 1957 Lincoln Wheat Penny
The 1957 Lincoln Wheat Penny is part of the Lincoln cent series, which was minted from 1909 to 1958. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the obverse (front) features the profile of Abraham Lincoln, with the inscriptions “IN GOD WE TRUST” above, “LIBERTY” to the left, and the date 1957 to the right. The reverse showcases two wheat stalks framing the words “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”, earning it the nickname “Wheat Penny.”
These pennies were struck in 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, making them one of the last Lincoln cents to be produced before the design changed to the Lincoln Memorial reverse in 1959. The 1957 penny was minted in two locations:
- Philadelphia (no mint mark) – More common
- Denver (D mint mark) – Scarcer but still widely available
Most 1957 pennies are worth only a few cents over face value. However, rare varieties, minting errors, and high-grade specimens have been known to fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars at auction.
The story of the 1957 penny found in a pawn shop serves as a reminder that valuable coins can show up in unexpected places. While most 1957 pennies are common, certain error coins and high-grade examples can be worth thousands. If you have a 1957 Lincoln Wheat Penny, check it carefully for errors, condition, and unusual features—you might just have a hidden treasure in your collection!
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my 1957 penny is valuable?
Look for errors like a doubled die, off-center strike, or unusual metal composition. If your penny is in mint-state condition (MS65 or higher), it could also be worth significantly more.
2. What is the most valuable 1957 penny ever sold?
The most valuable 1957 pennies are high-grade MS67+ Red examples, which have sold for over $2,500 at auctions. Error coins, such as a 1957 doubled die, can also sell for thousands.
The most valuable 1957 pennies are high-grade MS67+ Red examples, which have sold for over $2,500 at auctions. Error coins, such as a 1957 doubled die, can also sell for thousands.
3. What mint marks should I look for on a 1957 penny?
No mint mark = Philadelphia Mint (common)
D = Denver Mint (somewhat scarcer)
Both can be valuable in high grades or with rare errors.
4. Are 1957 pennies made of pure copper?
No, they are 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. If you find a 1957 penny that looks silver or different from normal copper, it could be an off-metal error and should be examined by an expert.
5. Where can I sell a rare 1957 penny?
Rare 1957 pennies can be sold at coin shops, online marketplaces (eBay, Heritage Auctions), or through professional grading services (PCGS, NGC) for authentication and maximum value.
