This Lincoln Penny Could Be Worth $840,000 : What Collectors Must Know Few coins evoke the intrigue of the Lincoln penny—an iconic piece of American currency that has not only stood the test of time but, in rare cases, skyrocketed in value. One particular Lincoln penny is now known to be worth as much as $840,000, astonishing collectors and historians alike. In this detailed breakdown, we examine why certain Lincoln pennies command such high value, which ones to look out for, and how to determine if you’re holding a hidden fortune.
The $840,000 Lincoln Penny: What Makes It So Valuable?
The Lincoln penny in question is typically the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent—a highly rare error coin minted during World War II when copper was diverted for wartime use. While most 1943 pennies were made from zinc-coated steel, a small number were mistakenly struck using bronze planchets from 1942.
Distinguishing Features:
- Date: 1943
- Metal: Bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc)
- Weight: ~3.11 grams
- Color: Reddish-brown hue
- Magnet Test: Non-magnetic (steel pennies stick to magnets)
Only 10 to 15 authentic specimens are known to exist, making it an ultra-rarity.
How the Error Happened: A Numismatic Fluke
The creation of the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent was unintentional. As the U.S. Mint transitioned from copper to steel in 1943, a few bronze planchets from 1942 were accidentally left in the presses. These coins were struck alongside the steel versions and released into circulation unnoticed.
graph TD
A[1942 Copper Planchets in Mint] --> B[1943 Steel Penny Production]
B --> C[Bronze Planchets Left in Machinery]
C --> D[1943 Bronze Pennies Accidentally Struck]
D --> E[Coins Enter Circulation]
E --> F[Collectors Discover Error Decades Later]
How to Identify a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent
If you believe you may have found one of these valuable coins, consider these identification steps:
1. Check the Weight
Steel cents weigh about 2.7 grams, while bronze cents weigh approximately 3.11 grams. A digital scale can confirm the difference.
2. Use a Magnet
Steel pennies will stick to a magnet. If your 1943 penny does not, it may be bronze.
3. Examine the Color
The steel version has a silvery appearance; the bronze version has a reddish-brown hue typical of pre-1943 copper coins.
4. Professional Grading
Send the coin to PCGS or NGC for authentication. Only certified grading can guarantee its legitimacy and unlock its maximum market value.
Record-Breaking Auction Sales
| Year Sold | Coin Description | Auction House | Price Realized |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 1943-D Bronze Lincoln Cent | Heritage Auctions | $1.7 million |
| 2014 | 1943 Bronze (Philadelphia Mint) | Stack’s Bowers Galleries | $329,000 |
| 2021 | 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent (NGC MS63) | Heritage Auctions | $840,000 |
These sales reflect both the coin’s rarity and strong demand from elite collectors worldwide.
Other Rare Lincoln Pennies to Look For
While the 1943 Bronze Cent tops the charts, several other Lincoln pennies are worth a small fortune:
- 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent – First year of issue, low mintage. Value: $700–$2,000+
- 1922 No D Lincoln Cent – Missing mintmark due to die issue. Value: $500–$10,000
- 1955 Doubled Die Obverse – Highly visible doubling on date and lettering. Value: $1,000–$15,000
- 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse – Fewer than 100 known. Value: $25,000–$75,000
How to Sell a Rare Penny for Maximum Value
If you possess a potential high-value Lincoln cent:
- Authenticate It: Submit to PCGS, NGC, or ANACS for grading
- Avoid Cleaning: Cleaning can severely reduce value
- Consult Auction Houses: Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers, and GreatCollections are trusted names
- Understand Market Timing: Coin values can rise during bullish numismatic trends
Protecting and Preserving Rare Lincoln Cents
Proper care is crucial for preserving and increasing a coin’s value:
- Use Acid-Free Holders: Avoid PVC flips
- Store in Climate-Controlled Spaces
- Avoid Excessive Handling: Use cotton gloves
- Insure High-Value Coins
Conclusion: A Penny Worth $840,000? Absolutely.
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent is a crown jewel among error coins. Its wartime backstory, extreme scarcity, and breathtaking auction results elevate it from currency to cultural artifact. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or an amateur coin collector, keep your eyes open—your spare change might be worth a fortune.