Imagine stumbling upon a penny in your change that’s actually worth millions. Sounds far-fetched? Not if you’re lucky enough to find the elusive 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny. This rare coin has shocked the world with auction prices as high as $3.5 million. Whether you’re a beginner, hobbyist, or seasoned collector, learning about this iconic coin could be your first step toward a potential windfall.
Overview
Let’s start with a quick snapshot of what makes this coin so special:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | Lincoln Wheat Penny |
| Most Valuable Version | 1943 Copper Penny |
| Estimated Value | Up to $3.5 million |
| Rarity Reason | Struck on copper instead of steel during WWII |
| Known Examples | Around 20 |
| ID Methods | Magnet test, weight, color, professional authentication |
| Other Rare Variants | 1909-S VDB, 1955 Double Die, 1922 No D |
The 1943 copper penny is more than rare—it’s a piece of wartime history accidentally created, making it one of the most valuable coins ever discovered in the U.S.
Origins
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first introduced in 1909 to honor the 100th birthday of Abraham Lincoln. It was the first American coin to feature a real person. It ran in circulation until 1958 and included Lincoln’s profile on the front and two wheat stalks on the back, representing prosperity.
While these coins were usually made from copper, a major shift occurred in 1943 due to World War II.
Wartime
In 1943, the U.S. Mint changed penny production to steel with a zinc coating to save copper for war supplies. However, a few leftover copper planchets from 1942 were mistakenly used, leading to the creation of a tiny batch of 1943 copper pennies.
This minting error is now one of the most valuable mistakes in American numismatic history.
Value
So why is this tiny copper coin worth millions?
Extreme Rarity
Fewer than 25 are confirmed to exist. That makes the 1943 copper penny one of the rarest U.S. coins ever made.
Historical Context
It’s a physical error linked to a massive global event—World War II. Coins like these tell stories beyond their metal.
High Demand
Collectors go crazy over this coin. When one shows up at auction, it attracts global attention and fierce competition.
Big Sales
Some verified 1943 copper pennies have been sold for over $1 million. The highest confirmed sale hit $3.5 million.
Detection
Think you’ve found a 1943 copper penny? Here’s how to check:
1. Check the Date
The coin must clearly say “1943.”
2. Magnet Test
Hold a magnet over the coin. If it sticks, it’s a steel penny. If not, it could be copper.
3. Weigh It
Use a digital scale:
- Steel penny: ~2.7 grams
- Copper penny: ~3.11 grams
Heavier means it might be copper.
4. Look at the Color
Copper has a reddish-brown tone. Steel pennies are dull silver-gray.
5. Get it Graded
Contact a grading service like:
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
They’ll tell you if your penny is authentic and assign a grade that affects its value.
Variants
The 1943 copper penny may be the most famous, but other Lincoln Wheat Pennies are worth serious money:
1909-S VDB Penny
The first-year coin featuring the designer’s initials. Only 484,000 were minted.
1955 Double Die Penny
A minting error caused the date and letters to appear doubled—clearly visible to the naked eye.
1922 No D Penny
Though all 1922 pennies were made in Denver, some were struck without a mint mark. These are extremely scarce.
Collecting
Want to get into coin collecting? Here’s how to start:
Learn the Basics
Understand grading, mint marks, and coin values. Books and websites can help.
Search Your Change
Yes, rare coins still show up in everyday circulation or old family jars.
Use Tools
Coin apps, catalogs, and online communities can help identify and value coins.
Join a Club
Meet other collectors, go to shows, and learn the ropes from veterans.
Handle with Care
Store coins in coin holders or albums. Avoid cleaning them—it reduces their value.
The 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just a coin—it’s a symbol of how historical quirks and simple mistakes can create lasting value. With only a handful known to exist, spotting one is like winning the lottery. So next time you dig through spare change or open an old coin jar, take a second look. You might just be holding a piece of history worth millions.
FAQs
How many 1943 copper pennies exist?
About 20 are confirmed to exist worldwide.
How can I test my 1943 penny?
Try a magnet and weigh it—copper won’t stick and weighs ~3.11g.
What is the most expensive Lincoln penny?
The 1943 copper penny, which sold for up to $3.5 million.
Should I clean an old penny?
No, cleaning can ruin its value. Keep it in original condition.
Where can I get a coin appraised?
Use services like PCGS or NGC for expert authentication.
