Imagine finding a single penny that could be worth more than a brand-new car—or even a house. That’s the incredible story of the 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny.
A rare minting mistake during World War II turned this ordinary-looking coin into one of the most valuable coins ever made. If you happen to own one, you might be sitting on a life-changing treasure.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 1943 copper penny, why it’s so rare, how to spot a real one, and how much it could be worth.
History
In 1943, the U.S. Mint stopped making pennies out of copper. Why? Because copper was needed for World War II equipment—bullets, shell casings, and communication wires. So instead, the Mint started producing pennies using zinc-coated steel. These coins looked silver and even stuck to magnets.
But a few copper coin blanks (called planchets) were still left in the minting machines by accident. When they were struck into 1943 pennies, a handful of genuine copper pennies were created. These weren’t noticed right away, but collectors later discovered them—and their value skyrocketed.
Value
Today, a genuine 1943 copper penny is one of the most sought-after error coins in the world. Even in circulated condition, a real one can sell for over $100,000. The better the condition, the higher the value.
In top grades, especially if certified by trusted grading companies like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation), the price can go much higher—some have been valued close to $250,000 or more depending on rarity, condition, and market demand.
Here’s a quick guide to possible values:
| Grade / Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Heavily Circulated | $75,000 – $125,000 |
| Lightly Circulated | $125,000 – $175,000 |
| Uncirculated (MS) | $200,000+ |
Identification
Wondering how to tell if your 1943 penny is a rare copper version or the common steel one? Start with this simple magnet test.
- Take a small magnet and hold it next to the coin.
- If the coin sticks, it’s a regular steel penny—worth just a few cents.
- If the coin doesn’t stick, it might be copper—and worth checking further.
But beware: counterfeits exist. Some people coat steel pennies to look like copper, or alter dates from 1945 or 1948 to resemble 1943. That’s why you need expert verification before you make any decisions.
Authentication
If you think you’ve got a real 1943 copper penny, the next step is to have it authenticated by a professional grading service. PCGS and NGC are the two most trusted organizations for this.
They’ll examine your coin, confirm its authenticity, assign it a grade, and seal it in a tamper-proof holder with a certification number.
Once graded, your coin becomes easier to sell and usually commands a much higher price at auction or through private sales.
Final Thoughts
The 1943 copper penny is a classic example of a happy mistake—born from a wartime need for copper and the mint’s mix-up. Today, it stands as a dream find for coin collectors. You never know: that old coin sitting in a drawer could be worth more than you ever imagined.
So next time you find a 1943 penny, grab a magnet. You might be just one test away from observing a six-figure coin.
FAQs
Why is the 1943 copper penny so rare?
It was made by accident when leftover copper blanks were used.
What is the magnet test?
Steel pennies stick to magnets. Copper ones don’t.
Can a 1943 copper penny be fake?
Yes, many are counterfeits or altered coins. Get it verified.
Who can authenticate my coin?
Use PCGS or NGC for professional grading and certification.
How much is a real 1943 copper penny worth?
It can sell for $100,000 or more depending on condition.
