Most pennies go unnoticed, tossed into jars or left in drawers. But one coin from World War II has captured the imagination of collectors worldwide—the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny. While billions of 1943 pennies were made from steel, a handful were accidentally struck in copper. These rare coins have sold for staggering prices, with some fetching up to $840,000 in recent years.
Here’s why this small coin has such a big story—and how you might identify one.
Why the 1943 Copper Penny Exists
In 1943, copper was a vital wartime material needed for ammunition and military supplies. To conserve resources, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to zinc-coated steel for pennies.
However, a few leftover copper planchets from 1942 accidentally made it into the presses. The result? A tiny number of 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Pennies, now considered one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history.
Fewer than 20 verified examples are known to exist today, making this coin one of the rarest and most valuable collectibles in American numismatics.
What Makes the 1943 Copper Penny So Valuable?
Several factors explain its extraordinary value:
- Extreme Rarity – Only a handful exist compared to billions of steel pennies.
- Historical Importance – It reflects America’s WWII-era resource conservation.
- Minting Error – Error coins often command high premiums, and this is one of the most iconic.
- Auction Records – Some have sold for over $800,000, with reports of sales exceeding $1 million.
Together, rarity, history, and collector demand make this coin the ultimate “holy grail” for penny enthusiasts.
Varieties of the 1943 Penny
Not every 1943 penny is valuable. Here’s a breakdown:
| Type of 1943 Penny | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 Steel Penny | Standard issue, zinc-coated steel | Face value (circulated) to a few dollars (uncirculated) |
| 1943 Copper Penny | Rare error coin struck on copper planchet | Up to $840,000+ |
| 1943-D Copper Penny | Denver Mint version, extremely rare | $800,000+ |
| 1943-S Copper Penny | San Francisco Mint version, even scarcer | Potentially over $1,000,000 |
Notable Auction Sales
Over the years, the 1943 copper penny has broken multiple records:
- A 1943-D Copper Penny sold for nearly $1.7 million at auction.
- Several others have sold in the $200,000–$800,000 range, depending on condition and mint mark.
These results show just how much collectors are willing to pay for this coin.
How to Identify a 1943 Copper Penny
Think you might have one? Here’s how to check:
- Magnet Test – Steel pennies stick to a magnet. Copper ones do not.
- Weight Test – A copper penny weighs about 3.11 grams. Steel versions weigh less (around 2.7 grams).
- Look for Mint Marks – “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) copper pennies are especially valuable.
- Professional Authentication – If you suspect you have one, get it graded by services like PCGS or NGC.
⚠️ Tip: Never clean a rare coin, as this can reduce its value.
Why Collectors Love This Coin
Beyond money, the 1943 copper penny is valued for the story it tells. It symbolizes America’s wartime sacrifices and the unexpected quirks of coin production. Collectors prize it not just as an investment but as a historical artifact.
FAQs About the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny
Q1: How much is a 1943 copper penny worth in 2025?
Depending on condition and mint mark, it can be worth hundreds of thousands, with top examples reaching $840,000 or more.
Q2: Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
No. Most are steel pennies worth little more than face value unless in pristine condition. Only the copper error pennies are extremely valuable.
Q3: How many 1943 copper pennies exist?
Experts believe fewer than 20 verified examples are in existence.
Q4: Where can I sell a 1943 copper penny?
Reputable coin dealers, high-end auction houses, and grading services like PCGS or NGC are the best places.
Q5: Can one still be found in circulation?
The odds are slim, but it’s not impossible. Rare finds have turned up in old collections and coin jars.
Final Thoughts
The 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny is proof that extraordinary treasures can sometimes hide in the most ordinary places. While finding one in your pocket change is unlikely, it’s worth checking—because if you do, you could be holding a coin worth up to $840,000.