At first glance, a penny from 1943 might seem like just another piece of old change. But coin collectors know that not all 1943 pennies are created equal. During World War II, copper was needed for ammunition and war supplies, prompting the U.S. Mint to switch to zinc-coated steel for one year. However, a few rare mistakes occurred—and these accidental coins are now worth thousands, even hundreds of thousands of dollars. If you happen to come across one of these three versions, you might just be sitting on a small fortune.
1. 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
The 1943 Copper Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous and valuable error coins in American history. While most 1943 pennies were made from steel, a few copper planchets (coin blanks) from 1942 were accidentally left in the minting presses. The result? A copper 1943 penny that should never have existed. Fewer than 20 authentic versions are known to exist today. In 2010, one example sold for $1.7 million, and another fetched over $200,000 in a more recent auction. If your 1943 penny doesn’t stick to a magnet, it could be the copper version—an instant life-changer.
2. 1943-D Copper Penny
Even rarer than the standard copper version is the 1943-D Copper Penny, struck at the Denver Mint. Only one known example has ever been discovered. This unique coin combines the rarity of the copper error with the even scarcer “D” mint mark. It was sold in 2010 for $1.7 million, making it one of the most valuable pennies ever found. Its origin remains a mystery, but experts believe it was the result of a rogue copper planchet slipping into the minting process. Owning one of these is like holding the holy grail of coin collecting.
3. 1943-S Copper Penny
The 1943-S Copper Penny, minted in San Francisco, is another extremely rare variant. Like the Philadelphia and Denver versions, this coin should have been made of steel, but a few copper blanks remained in use. Only a handful of 1943-S copper pennies have been confirmed. One of them sold at auction for $282,000. If your penny bears the “S” mint mark and is made of copper, you may have an extraordinary treasure in your pocket.
A Penny Worth a Fortune
The story of the 1943 penny proves that even the smallest coin can hold enormous value. These rare copper versions weren’t supposed to exist, but their accidental creation has turned them into collector gold. Whether it’s from Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco, a genuine 1943 copper penny is worth far more than its face value—it’s a piece of history and a potential windfall. So, next time you see an old penny, take a closer look. That rusty coin might just be your ticket to unexpected riches.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my 1943 penny is copper or steel?
Use a magnet—steel pennies will stick; copper ones won’t. You can also weigh the coin—copper pennies weigh more.
2. Are there fake 1943 copper pennies?
Yes, many fakes exist. It’s best to have your coin authenticated by a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC.
3. What’s the value of a regular 1943 steel penny?
Common steel pennies are worth around 10 to 50 cents, or a few dollars in uncirculated condition.
4. Where can I sell a rare 1943 copper penny?
High-value coins should be sold through reputable auction houses or coin dealers who specialize in rare currency.
5. What should I do if I think I have a rare penny?
Avoid cleaning it. Handle it carefully and take it to a professional appraiser or coin grading company for verification.
