The 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny Worth $4.1 Million
The Lincoln Wheat Penny holds a special place in the history of U.S. coins. It was first introduced in 1909 to honor the 100th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln. This coin was groundbreaking because it was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person’s portrait rather than the traditional Lady Liberty.
The design was crafted by artist Victor David Brenner, who placed Lincoln’s profile on the front, while the back displayed two wheat stalks symbolizing growth and prosperity. These copper pennies were produced until 1958 and have become one of the most iconic coins in American history.
A Rare Mistake During World War II
During the Second World War, copper was in high demand for making military equipment. Because of this, in 1943, the U.S. Mint switched from using copper to zinc-coated steel for pennies. These steel pennies are silver-colored and still commonly found today.
However, due to an error, a few leftover copper blanks from 1942 remained in the machines, resulting in a small number of 1943 pennies being struck on copper instead of steel. These copper pennies are now among the rarest and most prized coins ever minted in the United States.
Why It’s Worth Millions
Only around 20 to 40 of these 1943 copper pennies are believed to exist. Their extreme scarcity combined with the fascinating history behind their creation makes them incredibly valuable. One such penny sold for $1.7 million in 2010, and another reportedly fetched an astounding $4.1 million in 2021. Considering they were originally worth just one cent, these pennies have become extraordinary treasures for collectors.
How to Tell If You Have One
Curious if you might own one of these valuable pennies? Here are some tips to identify it: The authentic 1943 penny is silver-colored and will stick to a magnet because it’s made of steel. A copper-colored penny that does not attract a magnet could be one of these rare pieces.
Copper pennies weigh about 3.11 grams, which is noticeably heavier than the steel versions. Also, check the mint mark below the year—“D” stands for Denver and “S” for San Francisco. The 1943-D copper penny is particularly rare. Lastly, the penny’s condition greatly affects its value, with well-preserved examples fetching the highest prices.
Is It Possible to Find One Today?
Finding one of these pennies today is extremely rare but not out of the question. Some have appeared unexpectedly in old collections, inherited family belongings, or even forgotten pocket change. Since pennies are often overlooked, it’s possible that one of these precious coins is still out there, waiting to be discovered by chance.
What to Do If You Think You Found One
If you believe you have discovered a 1943 copper penny, it’s important to handle it with care. Avoid cleaning the coin because this can drastically reduce its value. Ideally, wear gloves when handling it and take the coin to a reputable coin dealer or professional grading company like PCGS or NGC for verification. If authenticated, this rare penny could be sold at auction for an impressive sum of money.
A Penny with a Big Story
The 1943 copper penny is a perfect example of how something small can carry great value. Its blend of historical importance, rarity, and the accidental nature of its creation has made it a cherished item among collectors. Next time you come across a penny, take a closer look—you might just be holding a piece of history worth a fortune.
