First minted in 1909, the Lincoln Wheat Penny marked a milestone in U.S. coinage. Designed by sculptor Victor David Brenner to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, it was the first American coin to feature a real historical figure.
On the front, you’ll see Lincoln’s iconic profile. On the back, two wheat stalks frame the words “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” topped by the Latin phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
These coins were minted until 1958 and were mostly made of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. But one unusual year changed everything: 1943.
The 1943 Copper Penny: America’s Most Valuable Cent
In 1943, copper was needed for World War II ammunition and equipment. So, the U.S. Mint switched to zinc-coated steel for pennies. However, a few leftover copper planchets from 1942 accidentally got struck with 1943 dies.
The result? The legendary 1943 Copper Penny.
Why Is It So Rare?
Only about 20 to 30 authentic 1943 copper pennies exist across all three mints: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Their scarcity, combined with their accidental production during a pivotal time in U.S. history, makes them the holy grail of Lincoln cents.
Auction Prices for the 1943 Copper Penny
| Mint Mark | Condition | Latest Valuation |
|---|---|---|
| None (Philadelphia) | MS63 Red | $1,000,000+ |
| None (Philadelphia) | MS62 Brown | $435,000 |
| D (Denver) | MS64 | $1,050,000+ |
| S (San Francisco) | MS63 | $1,000,000 |
Note: Only one 1943-D (Denver) copper penny is known to exist. If it ever hits the auction block again, it could fetch several million dollars.
While the 1943 copper cent leads the pack, these Lincoln Wheat Pennies are also worth checking your collection (or pocket change) for:
| Year/Type | Notable Features | Value Range |
| 1909-S VDB | First-year issue with designer’s initials; only 484,000 minted | $1,000 – $168,000 |
| 1914-D | Low mintage | $300 – $55,000 |
| 1922 Plain | Missing mint mark due to die wear | $500 – $25,000 |
| 1955 Doubled Die | Dramatic doubling on obverse lettering | $1,000 – $224,000 |
| 1944 Steel | Error coin using steel instead of copper | $75,000 – $180,000 |
How to Tell If You Have a Real 1943 Copper Penny
With such high values at stake, counterfeits are everywhere. Use these steps to check if your penny might be genuine:
1. The Magnet Test
Steel pennies are magnetic; copper pennies are not. If your 1943 penny sticks to a magnet, it’s steel or a counterfeit.
2. Weight Test
A genuine 1943 Copper Penny weighs around 3.11 grams. Steel pennies weigh about 2.7 grams. Use a digital scale for accuracy.
3. Inspect the Date
Many fakes are altered 1945 or 1948 pennies. Look closely under magnification for signs of tampering.
4. Get Professional Grading
If your coin passes the basic checks, it’s time for expert verification. Trusted coin grading services include:
- Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) – pcgs.com
- Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) – ngccoin.com
Are Rare Pennies Still in Circulation?
Technically, yes. With billions of Lincoln Wheat Pennies produced between 1909 and 1958, many still pop up in pocket change or old coin jars. While most aren’t worth more than a few cents, rare dates and error coins like the 1943 Copper Penny might still be out there.
Collectors and dealers often scan rolls of pennies from banks hoping to score a hidden gem. It’s unlikely but not impossible.
How to Protect and Preserve Valuable Coins
Found a coin that might be valuable? Here’s how to care for it:
- Handle coins by the edges only
- Never clean a coin—it can ruin its value
- Use acid-free coin holders or flips
- Keep in a dry, dark place away from extreme temperatures
- Document where and when it was found, if possible
Investing in Rare Pennies: Is It Worth It?
Coins like the 1943 Copper Penny have skyrocketed in value over decades. Some that sold for a few thousand in the 1970s now sell for over $1 million.
Still, most numismatists advise collecting for passion, not profit. The thrill of the hunt, the history behind each coin, and the community of collectors make it rewarding beyond just dollar signs.
That said, professionally graded and authenticated coins can be a solid alternative investment for those looking to diversify.
Trusted Resources for Coin Collectors
Whether you’re new to the hobby or a seasoned collector, these official resources can help:
- U.S. Mint: usmint.gov
- American Numismatic Association: money.org
- PCGS: pcgs.com
- NGC: ngccoin.com
Final Thoughts: A Penny for Your Fortune?
The viral tales of $21 million Lincoln Wheat Pennies are more fantasy than fact—but the real stories behind coins like the 1943 Copper Penny are just as thrilling.
These tiny pieces of metal carry big stories: of war, history, error, and rarity. And yes, some of them are worth more than a house.
So next time you get change back at the store, take a second look. You never know what treasures might be hiding in plain sight.
FAQs
Q: How many 1943 copper pennies are known to exist? A: Around 20-30 across all U.S. mints, with only one verified 1943-D.
Q: What if I think I found one? A: Test with a magnet, weigh it, examine the date, and send it to PCGS or NGC for authentication.
Q: Are Lincoln Wheat Pennies still being used? A: Yes, but they’re rare in circulation. Most have been collected or stored away.
Q: Could undiscovered 1943 Copper Pennies still exist? A: It’s rare, but technically possible. That’s why many collectors keep hunting.