Have you ever wondered if a penny in your collection could be worth a fortune? While most pennies are only worth a cent, a few rare exceptions can fetch thousands—or even millions—at auction. One of the most valuable is the 1943-D bronze Lincoln cent, a coin so rare that only one known specimen exists.
In this guide, we’ll look into why this penny is worth up to $840,000, how to identify it, and the steps to authenticate it. Whether you’re an experienced collector or just starting out, this information could help you uncover a hidden gem in your collection.
Table of Contents
Value
The extreme rarity of the 1943-D bronze cent makes it one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history.
1943-D Bronze Cent Value Table
| Feature | Details | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | A 1943-D Lincoln penny mistakenly struck on a bronze planchet | Up to $840,000 |
| Rarity | Only one known specimen exists | Incredibly rare |
| Auction Record | Sold for $840,000 in 2021 | High demand |
| Composition | Made of bronze instead of steel | Unique error |
| Authentication | Professional services like PCGS, NGC can verify it | Essential for value |
Most 1943 pennies were made from zinc-coated steel, but a few were mistakenly struck in bronze, making them some of the rarest and most sought-after coins in numismatic history.
History
During World War II, the U.S. government needed copper for wartime supplies like ammunition and electrical wiring. To conserve resources, the U.S. Mint switched to using zinc-coated steel for pennies in 1943.
However, a small number of bronze planchets (leftover from 1942) were accidentally used to mint pennies. These rare errors were released into circulation without anyone noticing.
While a few bronze 1943 pennies exist from the Philadelphia and San Francisco mints, the Denver Mint’s version is unique—only one has ever been found.
1943-D Bronze Cent So Valuable
Several factors contribute to the coin’s extraordinary value:
- Extreme Rarity – Only one 1943-D bronze penny is known to exist.
- Historical Significance – It represents a major wartime minting error.
- High Demand – Collectors and investors compete for rare finds.
- Auction Records – Continually setting high prices, proving its desirability.
$840,000 Penny
In January 2021, the only known 1943-D bronze cent was sold at auction for $840,000, breaking records and proving that rare pennies can be worth a fortune.
Identification
If you’re searching for valuable pennies, knowing how to identify the 1943-D bronze cent is essential. Here’s how:
- Check the Date and Mint Mark
- The coin should be dated 1943.
- Below the date, look for a small “D” mint mark, indicating it was minted in Denver.
- If the coin is from another mint (Philadelphia or San Francisco), it may still be valuable but isn’t the Denver version.
- Test the Coin’s Composition
- Most 1943 pennies are steel, but the rare error was struck on bronze.
- Use a magnet – If the coin sticks, it’s a regular steel penny.
- If it does not stick, you may have a rare bronze version.
- Weigh the Coin
- Steel 1943 cents weigh 2.7 grams.
- Bronze 1943 cents weigh 3.11 grams.
- If your coin is 3.11 grams and does not stick to a magnet, it could be an authentic bronze 1943-D cent.
- Check for Sharp Details
- Authentic 1943-D bronze cents have strong details, including a clear date and mint mark.
- Wear and scratches can decrease value but do not affect rarity.
Authentication
Since counterfeit 1943-D bronze cents exist, professional authentication is essential.
Trusted Coin Grading Services
If you suspect you have a 1943-D bronze cent, send it to a certified coin grading service such as:
- Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS): www.pcgs.com
- Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC): www.ngccoin.com
These services will:
- Verify authenticity
- Provide an official grade
- Secure the coin in a tamper-proof holder
Authentication can dramatically increase a coin’s value, as buyers trust graded coins more than unverified ones.
1943-D Bronze Cent
If you think you’ve found this rare coin, follow these steps:
- Examine the Coin Carefully – Check the date, mint mark, composition, and weight.
- Test for Magnetism – If the coin is non-magnetic, it may be bronze.
- Weigh the Coin – A weight of 3.11 grams is a strong indicator.
- Get It Authenticated – Send it to PCGS or NGC for verification.
- Decide Whether to Sell or Hold – If authenticated, consider selling it through a reputable auction house.
Other Rare Pennies to Look For
Even if you don’t have a 1943-D bronze cent, other valuable pennies may be in your collection:
| Penny Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent | Up to $100,000 |
| 1955 Double Die Obverse | Up to $50,000 |
| 1877 Indian Head Cent | Up to $80,000 |
| 1944 Steel Cent | Up to $500,000 |
If you find any of these coins, consider getting them professionally graded, as they may be worth thousands.
FAQs
How much is a 1943-D bronze penny worth?
The only known specimen sold for $840,000 in 2021.
How do I know if my 1943-D penny is bronze?
Use a magnet—if it doesn’t stick, it may be bronze.
What makes the 1943-D bronze cent so rare?
It was mistakenly struck on a bronze planchet instead of steel.
Where can I authenticate my 1943-D penny?
PCGS and NGC offer professional coin grading services.
What other rare pennies should I look for?
1909-S VDB, 1955 Double Die, 1877 Indian Head, 1944 Steel Cent.
