A recent discovery has reignited excitement in the coin-collecting world: a rare 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny found in everyday pocket change, believed to be worth up to $854,000. While millions of 1943 cents were minted, nearly all were made from zinc-coated steel due to wartime copper shortages.
However, a handful of copper (bronze) planchets were mistakenly used, producing some of the most valuable pennies in U.S. history.
Why 1943 Pennies Are Usually Steel
During World War II, the U.S. Mint redirected copper for war supplies and switched cent production to steel cores coated in zinc. These steel cents are easy to recognize: they are gray-colored, magnetic, and lighter than typical pennies.
However, a few leftover copper blanks from 1942 accidentally entered the minting presses in 1943. These rare mistakes—known as 1943 copper cents—have become legendary, with auction prices soaring as collectors compete to own them.
The $854,000 Lincoln Penny
One of these 1943 copper pennies has been valued at around $854,000, depending on its mint mark, condition, and provenance. Because so few were made, their rarity and historical significance have made them highly desirable to elite collectors.
Key Details About the 1943 Copper Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1943 |
| Type | Lincoln Wheat Cent |
| Metal Composition | Copper (bronze) — error issue |
| Weight | About 3.11 grams |
| Normal 1943 coins | Zinc-coated steel (~2.7 grams, magnetic) |
| Known Mints | Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (D), San Francisco (S) |
| Known Quantities | Around 20–25 known worldwide |
| Record Values | $282,000 – $1,750,000+ depending on specimen |
| Recent Estimate | Up to $854,000 for a high-grade example |
How to Spot a 1943 Copper Penny
- Check the color: Copper pennies are reddish-brown while steel cents are silver-gray.
- Do the magnet test: Copper is not magnetic; steel pennies will stick to a magnet.
- Weigh the coin: A genuine copper penny weighs about 3.11 grams; steel pennies weigh about 2.7 grams.
- Inspect mint marks: Look closely for “D” or “S” under the date; these can influence value.
- Get it graded: Only a professional coin grading service can confirm authenticity and condition.
Why These Pennies Are So Valuable
- Extreme rarity: Only a few genuine 1943 copper pennies exist.
- Historical significance: Minted during a pivotal period of U.S. history.
- High demand: Sought after by wealthy collectors and museums.
- Public fascination: Their legendary status keeps demand strong, driving up prices.
What To Do If You Think You Found One
- Avoid cleaning it – Cleaning can damage the coin and reduce its value.
- Store it safely – Use a protective coin holder to prevent wear.
- Seek professional grading – Submit the coin to a reputable service like PCGS or NGC for verification.
- Consult a trusted dealer or auction house – They can guide you on how to sell the coin if it’s genuine.
The rare 1943 copper Lincoln penny is a remarkable numismatic treasure, with values reaching $854,000 or more.
While millions of 1943 steel cents exist, only a handful of copper versions are known. Carefully checking your change, authenticating finds, and preserving condition could turn an ordinary penny into an extraordinary fortune.
FAQs
How many 1943 copper pennies are known to exist?
It’s believed that only about 20 to 25 genuine 1943 copper pennies have been discovered worldwide.
Can a 1943 copper penny really be worth $854,000?
Yes. Depending on mint mark and grade, high-quality examples have sold for hundreds of thousands and even surpassed seven figures at auction.
How can I quickly check if my 1943 penny is copper or steel?
Use a magnet. If it sticks, it’s steel. If it doesn’t stick and weighs about 3.11 grams, it could be copper.