If you’ve ever found yourself flipping through your spare change, hoping for a hidden gem, you’re not chasing a fantasy. The legendary 1943 Copper Lincoln Wheat Penny is real, rare, and worth up to $140,000—or more. And here’s the kicker: it might still be out there waiting to be known.
This mysterious coin, born from a World War II minting mistake, has become one of the most sought-after pennies in U.S. history. With fewer than 20 verified examples, it’s no wonder collectors are checking every 1943 penny they come across.
1943 Copper Penny So Special
In 1943, copper was a wartime commodity, needed for ammunition and military equipment. So, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to zinc-coated steel for pennies. But a few leftover copper planchets from 1942 accidentally slipped into the presses, resulting in a few 1943 pennies that were mistakenly struck in copper.
And just like that, a rare error coin was born.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Type | 1943 Copper Lincoln Wheat Penny |
| Estimated Value | Up to $140,000 (more at auction) |
| Weight | ~3.11 grams |
| Magnetic? | No |
| Material | Copper (instead of steel) |
| Known Examples | Fewer than 20 |
These pennies were never meant to exist. That’s what makes them so rare—and so valuable.
Real Sales That Made Headlines
- In 2010, one sold for $1.7 million due to pristine condition.
- In 2019, another went for $204,000 at auction.
The value largely depends on the condition, authenticity, and who’s bidding. But even a lower-grade example could fetch tens of thousands.
How to Identify
Think you might have one? Here’s how to check:
1. Look at the Year
Make sure the date reads 1943. If it’s a different year, it’s not the right coin.
2. Check the Color
Steel pennies look silver-gray. Copper ones have a reddish or brownish hue.
3. Use a Magnet
This is the fastest test. Steel sticks to a magnet. Copper doesn’t. If it doesn’t stick, that’s a good sign.
4. Weigh the Coin
Use a digital scale:
- Copper Penny: About 3.11 grams
- Steel Penny: Around 2.7 grams
A heavier 1943 penny could mean copper.
5. Watch Out for Fakes
Some 1948 pennies are altered to look like 1943. They’re forgeries. Only certified experts can confirm the real deal.
What to Do If You Think You Have One
Leave the coin exactly as you found it. Cleaning can ruin the surface and destroy its value.
Get It Graded
Send your coin to one of these certified grading services:
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
They’ll verify whether it’s genuine and assign it a grade, which helps set its market price.
Sell at Auction
If it’s real, consider auction houses like:
- Heritage Auctions
- Stack’s Bowers Galleries
These platforms reach serious collectors with deep pockets.
Why Rare Coins Still Exist in Circulation
Many valuable coins are forgotten in jars, safes, or inherited collections. The 1943 copper penny isn’t the only coin worth a small fortune. Other treasures to watch for:
- 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
- 1955 Doubled Die Penny
- 1944 Steel Penny
You never know when an ordinary-looking coin might turn out to be a jackpot.
Trusted Resources for Coin Collectors
To learn more or verify your finds, stick with reputable sources:
These websites offer price guides, authentication tips, and current market trends.
Keep an eye on your change. That plain penny in your pocket might be one of the last undiscovered 1943 copper cents—and worth way more than a cent.
FAQs
Is the 1943 copper penny magnetic?
No, copper is not magnetic. Steel 1943 pennies are.
How much is a 1943 copper penny worth?
Up to $140,000 or more, depending on condition and grading.
How many 1943 copper pennies exist?
Fewer than 20 confirmed examples are known to exist.
Can I sell a rare penny online?
Yes, through auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers.
What if my 1943 penny sticks to a magnet?
Then it’s made of steel and not the rare copper version.
