Found Lincoln Penny Worth $90,000: While sorting through his late grandmother’s attic in Michigan, 43-year-old Dennis Wallace never expected a dusty cereal box to change his life. The sealed box, forgotten since 1972, held more than just stale flakes—it concealed a rare Lincoln penny now valued at $90,000. What began as a simple cleaning project transformed into an extraordinary numismatic find, proving that treasures often hide in the most ordinary places.
The Rare Lincoln Penny Hidden in a Cereal Box
When Wallace peeled open the vintage cereal box, he found a plastic sleeve labeled “Special U.S. Mint Edition.” Inside was a 1972 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) penny, one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. The coin’s telltale doubling—visible in the date and the word “LIBERTY”—made it instantly recognizable to collectors. Fewer than 250,000 of these error pennies escaped the mint, and most have been lost or damaged over time. Wallace’s discovery, preserved perfectly in its cereal box time capsule, was nothing short of miraculous.
From Breakfast Cereal to Auction Block
After authentication by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), the penny received a near-perfect MS66 Red grade—a rating reserved for coins with exceptional color and preservation. “This isn’t just a rare coin; it’s a piece of Americana with an incredible backstory,” said Barry Thompson, a Chicago coin expert. The upcoming auction has already generated buzz, with estimates placing its value between 80,000and80,000and95,000.
Why This Humble Penny Is Worth a Fortune
The 1972 DDO Lincoln cent is legendary among collectors. Unlike modern mint errors, which are often caught before circulation, these coins slipped into the public’s hands—making them highly desirable. Adding to its value is its pristine condition and unique origin story. Most vintage coins are found in collections or rolls, but this one survived untouched in a 50-year-old cereal box, making it a one-of-a-kind treasure.
A Reminder to Check Your Attic (and Pantry!)
Wallace’s story has inspired people everywhere to re-examine old boxes, drawers, and forgotten heirlooms. “If a cereal box can hold a $90,000 penny, who knows what else is out there?” said one collector. For Wallace, the discovery was bittersweet—a final gift from his grandmother’s attic. “I’ll never look at old boxes the same way again,” he laughed.
The Magic of Hidden History
This incredible find reminds us that history is all around us—sometimes tucked inside a cereal box, sometimes waiting in a dusty attic. As Wallace’s penny heads to auction, it carries more than monetary value; it’s a testament to curiosity, nostalgia, and the thrill of discovery. Who knows? The next great treasure might be hiding in your home right now.
