The idea of a penny being worth $81 million might seem like a fantasy, but some Lincoln Wheat Pennies—especially the rare 1943 Bronze version—have sold for life-changing amounts. While the $81 million claim is likely speculative, the fact remains that a genuine 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny can fetch up to $1.7 million or more at auction.
If you think you’ve found one of these coins, don’t rush to spend it. You could be holding a rare numismatic treasure with historical significance and serious investment value. This guide walks you through everything you need to know—from background to authentication.
Story Behind the 1943 Bronze Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint needed copper for ammunition and military equipment. So, in 1943, it switched penny production to zinc-coated steel. However, a small number of leftover bronze planchets—metal blanks from previous years—accidentally got used. These rare mistakes became the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Pennies.
Only about 20 to 30 authentic examples are known to exist across all three U.S. mint locations: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. These coins are incredibly rare, making them one of the most desirable coins in American history.
Real-World Sales and Value
Although rumors of $81 million sales abound online, the highest confirmed auction prices tell a more grounded story:
- A 1943-D Bronze Penny sold for $840,000 in 2021
- A 1943 Philadelphia version reportedly sold for $1.7 million
- The right combination of condition, rarity, and provenance can drive up value dramatically
Condition matters. A coin graded Mint State (MS) 63 or above can sell for hundreds of thousands more than a worn one.
How to Identify
If you’re lucky enough to have a 1943 penny that looks like copper or bronze, here’s how to check if it might be the real deal:
Step 1
The coin must be dated 1943. No other date is relevant for this specific bronze error. If it’s not 1943, it’s not what you’re looking for.
Step 2
- Steel pennies (common) will stick to a magnet
- Bronze pennies (rare) will not
This is the fastest way to rule out steel pennies that are just discolored.
Step 3
- Steel pennies weigh 2.7 grams
- Bronze pennies weigh around 3.11 grams
Use a digital scale accurate to two decimal places. Scales under $20 are available online.
Step 4
Below the date, you’ll find:
- No mark = Philadelphia Mint
- D = Denver
- S = San Francisco
All three mints had reported errors, so all mint marks (or the absence of one) could potentially be valuable.
Why Authentication Is Crucial
A valuable coin without certification might as well be worthless. Counterfeiters often plate steel pennies with copper or manipulate coins to fake rarity. Professional authentication services offer peace of mind and market credibility.
Recommended Grading Services
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
These services:
- Confirm metal content using X-ray fluorescence (XRF)
- Grade condition from 1 to 70
- Place the coin in a tamper-evident holder
- Offer historical research for high-value coins
Without professional verification, no serious collector or auction house will buy your coin.
Why Rare Coins Like This Matter
Rare coins aren’t just collector items—they’re alternative investments. Between 2010 and 2020, coin values rose by over 120% according to the Knight Frank Wealth Report.
People love coins like the 1943 Bronze Penny because they are:
- Historically significant
- Scarce and irreplaceable
- Portable and easy to store
- Appreciating assets
Some collectors treat them like fine art or vintage wine—rare, valuable, and culturally rich.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming every brown 1943 penny is rare: Many are just discolored steel.
- Trusting eBay listings without proof: Scams are everywhere.
- Skipping authentication: Trying to save a few bucks might cost you thousands later.
Get your coin certified before making any assumptions—or announcements.
Other Rare Pennies to Watch For
Even if you don’t have the 1943 Bronze penny, other Lincoln Wheat Pennies can still be very valuable:
| Coin | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | $1,000 to $100,000+ |
| 1914-D | $10,000 to $150,000 |
| 1955 Doubled Die | $1,500 to $50,000 |
| 1944 Steel Penny | $100,000+ |
Each of these coins is a standout piece for collectors and worth checking your coin jars for.
The odds of finding an $81 million Lincoln penny may be slim, but the thrill of discovering a coin worth thousands—or even millions—is very real. With just a few simple tools and knowledge, you can inspect your coins properly and avoid falling for fakes.
If you suspect you have a valuable penny, take your time. Don’t clean it. Don’t alter it. Get it authenticated. That little coin could be your ticket to financial freedom.
FAQs
Is the $81 million penny real?
No verified sale for $81 million exists; top sales hit $1.7 million.
How do I test if my 1943 penny is rare?
Do a magnet test and weigh it—real bronze won’t stick and weighs 3.11g.
How many 1943 bronze pennies exist?
Roughly 20 to 30 are known to exist worldwide.
Where can I get my coin authenticated?
Use PCGS or NGC for professional grading and certification.
Can a 1944 steel penny be valuable too?
Yes, it’s another rare wartime error, worth over $100,000.
