It started like any other morning. A college student, rushing to get to class, decided to clean out an old backpack that had been sitting unused for years. What was expected to be a quick search for a misplaced notebook turned into an unforgettable moment—one that would shock even the most seasoned coin collectors.
Tucked deep inside a small zippered pocket was an old, dull coin. At first glance, it didn’t seem like much—just another piece of loose change from who-knows-when. But something about the design caught the student’s eye. Unlike the modern coins used in circulation, this one looked aged, oddly struck, and bore details unfamiliar to most Americans today.
Curious, the student took the coin to a local coin shop near campus for a quick evaluation. That’s when everything changed.
An Extremely Rare Find
The coin, it turns out, was not just old—it was rare. Very rare. According to the appraisal, the coin appeared to be a 1943 Lincoln penny struck in bronze, not steel. In that particular year, the U.S. Mint had transitioned to using steel due to copper shortages during World War II. Only a handful of bronze versions were accidentally struck and released, making them among the most sought-after coins in American numismatic history.
Experts quickly confirmed the find was genuine.
Estimates placed the coin’s value between $150,000 and $200,000, depending on the condition and buyer interest. That’s roughly the price of a brand-new, high-end BMW 7 Series, making this discovery nothing short of astonishing.
How Did It End Up in a Backpack?
The student, who has chosen to remain anonymous, believes the coin might have been tucked away by a relative years ago or possibly acquired unknowingly from a childhood collection. The backpack had been stored away since high school and was only recently brought back into use due to a torn strap on the student’s newer bag.
“I almost threw the coin out, thinking it was just some old foreign change,” the student told local reporters. “I’m so glad I took a second look.”
Not the First Coin to Make Headlines
This isn’t the first time a rare coin has surfaced under surprising circumstances. In recent years, several high-value coins have been found in junk drawers, coffee cans, and garage sales. With rising interest in coin collecting and prices soaring for ultra-rare specimens, the hobby has evolved from a quiet pastime into a surprising source of wealth for unsuspecting Americans.
Numismatists suggest always checking old coins carefully, especially pre-1965 issues, rare mint errors, and coins with unusual metallic composition or double strikes.
A Valuable Lesson for All
This discovery serves as a timely reminder: sometimes, overlooked objects can turn out to be treasures. Whether it’s an old coin, stamp, or baseball card, everyday items might carry hidden value.
For the student, the plan is simple—use the money wisely. Part of the proceeds may go toward student loans, while another portion will help cover grad school expenses. As for the BMW? That part is still “under consideration.”
Also, read: Speared Bison Nickel Worth Millions Found in Tip Jar — Still in Circulation
Final Thoughts
In an age of digital payments and contactless cards, it’s easy to forget the stories that old coins can carry. But as this student’s experience shows, even a forgotten coin buried in a backpack could hold enough value to change a life—or at least buy a luxury car.
Have you checked your change lately?
