The 1943-S Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny is one of the rarest and most fascinating coins in American history. Minted during the height of World War II, this penny wasn’t even supposed to exist. But due to a striking error, a small number were made—and today, each one could be worth a small fortune.
Wartime Mistake
In 1943, the United States was conserving copper for the war effort. The U.S. Mint swapped out the traditional bronze alloy for a zinc-coated steel to produce pennies. This change helped save thousands of pounds of copper for military equipment like ammunition and communication wiring.
But old habits and leftover materials made for a historic slip-up. A few bronze planchets—metal discs used to make coins—were left inside the Mint’s machines from the previous year. As a result, a tiny number of 1943 pennies were struck using bronze instead of steel.
One of those rare coins is the 1943-S Bronze Lincoln Penny.
What Makes the 1943-S Bronze Penny So Rare?
The letter “S” in the coin’s name refers to the San Francisco Mint, where this particular error occurred. While millions of steel pennies were produced that year, it’s believed that only a handful of 1943-S pennies were struck on leftover bronze blanks.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
- It looks like a normal bronze penny from before 1943
- It carries the 1943 date, which was supposed to only appear on steel coins
- It has the “S” mint mark below the date
- It’s a mistake that wasn’t caught at the time
For coin collectors, it’s the perfect storm of rarity, historical context, and mystery.
Rarity and Value
The 1943-S Bronze Penny is extremely rare. Fewer than five verified examples are believed to exist, making it one of the most sought-after error coins in U.S. numismatic history.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1943 |
| Metal | Bronze (not steel) |
| Mint Mark | S (San Francisco) |
| Known Examples | Fewer than 5 |
| Auction Record (2023) | $282,000 (graded MS-62) |
In 2023, one of these bronze beauties graded MS-62 (Mint State) sold for an astonishing $282,000 at auction. If a higher-grade example were to surface, it could fetch even more.
How to Tell If You Have One
Most 1943 pennies are silver-colored because they’re made of steel. But if you find one that looks copper or bronze:
- Check the date. Does it say 1943?
- Look for the mint mark “S” under the date.
- Try using a magnet. Steel pennies stick—bronze ones won’t.
- Don’t clean it or polish it.
- Take it to a reputable coin dealer or send it to a grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Collector Craze
The story behind this penny makes it one of the most talked-about coins in collecting circles. It’s not just rare—it’s iconic. Many lifelong collectors consider it the “holy grail” of U.S. error coins. Its accidental creation during wartime adds a layer of historical importance that sets it apart from other rare coins.
Final Thoughts
The 1943-S Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just a valuable coin—it’s a slice of American history. Minted in error during a time of global conflict, it stands today as a reminder that even small mistakes can leave a massive legacy.
If you ever find one, don’t spend it—and don’t clean it. You might be holding one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the world.
FAQs
How many 1943-S bronze pennies exist?
Fewer than five confirmed examples are known to exist.
Why were 1943 pennies made of steel?
Copper was needed for World War II, so steel was used instead.
How can I tell if my 1943 penny is bronze?
Check the color, date, mint mark, and test it with a magnet.
What is the value of a 1943-S bronze penny?
One sold for $282,000 in 2023, depending on condition.
Where can I verify my rare penny?
Use services like PCGS or visit a certified coin dealer.
