Pennies found across Houston could score you cash

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A citywide treasure hunt is getting underway for 100 rare pennies. It's all to promote the upcoming Houston Money Show.

Event organizers have put 100 Indian Head pennies into circulation around the Houston area, from Conroe to Galveston to Katy and Wallisville. The have special numbers placed on them. So be sure to check your money drawers and change.

"The first five people will get $200," said Carl Schwenker with the Greater Houston Coin Club.

If you're not one of the first 5, don't worry. Schwenker tells us you push a button on a random number generator to increase your chance for winning big bucks.

"If the person's coin and the number that is generated is the same, they get a $1,000," he said.

If your number doesn't match the first time around, a second go at it will get you $250.

"If they don't get that one, we'll give them another shot for a hundred," Schwenker said.

After three tries and still no luck, you'll receive a $25 certificate to buy anything at the coin show. Schwanker says while you're hunting for their marked coins, be on the look out for other valuables.

For example, a copper 1943S penny. One of those gems could be worth a cool million. But there are other coins to be watching out for as well, including buffalo nickels or mercury dimes.

"You can find coins in there worth up to a hundred bucks, or even more," Schwenker said.

Anyone who finds a lucky penny and brings it to the money show at the George R. Brown Convention Center to get the cash. Call 832-909-5497 to alert the show when you will arrive to claim your prize.

The show runs Thursday through Saturday.