
A shocking mint error is making waves among collectors: a 1983 Lincoln cent with the bizarre motto “WETRUS” instead of “IN GOD WE TRUST” may be worth up to $1,000,000. Only a handful are known to exist—and one could be in your change jar right now.
At PennyVerse.info, we break down the key features, values, and verification steps for this potentially life-changing coin.
🧨 Why the “WETRUS” Penny Is Worth So Much
✅ Major Motto Error – “WETRUS”
- The phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” appears missing or malformed, resulting in “WETRUS”
- A full design blunder, not just minor doubling
âś… Only 3 Confirmed Worldwide
- Ultra-low population makes it a white whale among modern U.S. coins
âś… Denver Mint Origin
- All confirmed examples have a “D” mintmark
âś… Transitional Year (1983)
- The U.S. Mint had recently shifted from copper to zinc—leading to error-prone production
âś… Private Sale Record
- Top graded specimen (MS65+ Red) reportedly sold for $150,000
- Collectors have offered $1M+ bounties for another in high grade
🔍 How to Spot a 1983 “WETRUS” Error Penny
Step 1: Check the Motto
- Flip the coin over and examine the “IN GOD WE TRUST” line
- If it reads “WETRUS,” you may have the jackpot
Step 2: Check the Mintmark
- Look for a “D” under the year → indicates Denver Mint
Step 3: Weigh the Coin
- Use a scale precise to 0.01g
- 3.11g = Copper (rare)
- 2.5g = Zinc (common)
Step 4: Use Magnification
- A 10x–20x loupe will help confirm malformed letters and minting flaws
- Check for authentic strike errors, not damage
đź’¸ Estimated Value (2025 Market)
Grade | Estimated Value |
---|---|
Circulated | $50,000 – $75,000 |
MS63 Red | $100,000 |
MS65+ Red | $1,000,000+ |
⚠️ Fake Alert: What to Watch Out For
❌ Laser-Etched Fakes – Often seen online
❌ Tool-Damaged Motto – Caused by acid or scraping
❌ Incorrect Weight – Always weigh the coin (must match copper or zinc specs)
🧤 Found One? Follow These Steps:
- Handle Carefully – Use gloves and hold only by the edge
- Photograph Clearly – Use natural light and a high-res camera
- Never Clean It – Cleaning destroys surface value
- Get It Graded – Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication
- Insure It – Contact a numismatic insurance provider immediately
🆓 Free Verification Program
📸 Email sharp images to:
WETRUS@ErrorCoinVerify.com
📱 Or text “WETRUSFIND” to 555-1983
Includes secure armored transport & private evaluations
🗣️ Real Story: From Junk Drawer to Jackpot
“I used mine as a washer for a DECADE before a friend pointed it out. I nearly threw away $100,000!”
🪙 Why Collectors Are Obsessed
âś… <5 Known Examples
✅ Major Mint Blunder – Not Just Doubling
âś… Tied to a Transitional Minting Period
âś… Could Still Be in Bank Rolls or Piggy Banks
💡 Expert Tip: Check ALL pennies from 1982–1984 — the copper-to-zinc transition years are packed with hidden errors.
🚨 Final Call: Check Your Change NOW
👉 One weird-looking penny could be worth a million dollars
👉 Share this guide with a friend—help them strike gold
👉 Need help selling? We’ll connect you with auction houses & private buyers
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