Among the world’s most valuable coins sits an ordinary-looking U.S. penny: the 1943 bronze Lincoln cent. During World War II, the U.S. Mint produced pennies out of steel coated with zinc to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a very small number of 1943 Lincoln cents were mistakenly struck on leftover bronze planchets from 1942, instead of the intended steel blanks. These copper pennies are among the most famous and sought after rarities in American numismatics.
Rarity and Auction Record
Discovery of a genuine 1943 bronze cent is exceedingly rare, with known examples selling at auction for up to $1.7 million. Only about 15 to 30 authentic specimens are known to exist, and most have been recovered from circulation by lucky collectors or sharp-eyed individuals checking their spare change. The coin’s auction value depends heavily on its condition, mint mark (Philadelphia, Denver “D”, or San Francisco “S”), and metadata confirming authenticity. Recent auctions confirm that high-grade 1943 “plain” bronze cents are the most valuable.
How to Identify a 1943 Bronze Cent
| Feature | Bronze 1943 | Regular 1943 Steel Cent |
|---|---|---|
| Date | 1943 | 1943 |
| Color/Appearance | Brown/red copper | Grayish steel/metallic |
| Magnetism | Not magnetic | Strongly magnetic |
| Weight | ~3.11 grams | ~2.7 grams |
| Mint marks | D, S, or none | D, S, or none |
Beware of Fakes and Alterations
Unfortunately, many altered or counterfeit 1943 “copper” cents circulate in the market. Some are ordinary steel cents that have been copper-plated, while others are 1948 bronze cents with the “8” altered to look like a “3.” Professional authentication and grading by a top service (such as PCGS or NGC) is essential before assuming yours is genuine and valuable.
SOURCE
FAQs
Q1. What makes the 1943 bronze cent so valuable?
Its extreme rarity, accidental creation, and historic World War II context drive its multi-million-dollar value.
Q2. How can I confirm if my 1943 penny is rare and real?
Check if it’s non-magnetic and weighs around 3.11 grams—if so, submit for professional grading and authentication.
Q3. Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
No. Almost all 1943 pennies are common steel cents worth a few cents; only genuine bronze/copper 1943s are rare and valuable.
If you think you might have one of these legendary coins, getting it authenticated could reveal a true once-in-a-lifetime windfall.
