Finding a coin worth $2 million in your pocket change sounds like a fantasy, but it’s a real possibility when it comes to the elusive 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny. This coin remains one of the most valuable and sought-after coins in U.S. history, and some experts believe a few may still be in circulation.
The Birth of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of Abraham Lincoln. Designed by Victor David Brenner, this coin was the first U.S. currency to feature a real historical figure.
- Obverse (Front): A portrait of Abraham Lincoln.
- Reverse (Back): Two stalks of wheat symbolizing prosperity and strength.
The Lincoln Wheat Penny remained in production until 1958, when it was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial penny in 1959. While most of these pennies are common, certain rare editions are worth a fortune.
What Makes the 1943 Copper Penny So Special?
During World War II, the U.S. Mint stopped using copper for pennies to conserve the metal for wartime production. Instead, pennies were made of zinc-coated steel. However, by mistake, a small number of 1943 pennies were struck on leftover copper blanks (planchets) from 1942. This minting error resulted in one of the rarest U.S. coins ever produced.
Why the 1943 Copper Penny Is So Valuable
- Rarity: Only 20 to 30 authentic 1943 copper pennies are known to exist.
- Minting Error: These coins were accidentally struck in copper instead of the intended steel.
- Historical Significance: The switch from copper to steel during the war makes this penny a fascinating piece of history.
Record-Breaking Sales of 1943 Copper Pennies
The value of a 1943 copper penny depends heavily on its condition and mint mark. Here are some notable sales:
| Year Sold | Condition | Mint Mark | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Uncirculated | None | $1.7 million |
| 2019 | Very Fine | “D” (Denver) | $204,000 |
| 2021 | Uncirculated | None | $1.8 million |
The most valuable of these coins was sold for $1.8 million in 2021, making it one of the highest-priced coins ever sold at auction.
How to Identify a 1943 Copper Penny
Think you might have a valuable 1943 copper penny? Here’s how to check:
- Check the Color: Copper pennies have a reddish-brown hue, unlike steel pennies, which appear silvery.
- Use a Magnet: A genuine 1943 copper penny will not stick to a magnet, while steel pennies will.
- Weigh the Coin: A copper penny weighs approximately 3.11 grams, while a steel penny weighs about 2.7 grams.
- Look for Mint Marks: Common mint marks include “D” (Denver) and “S” (San Francisco). Pennies without a mint mark were minted in Philadelphia.
- Get Professional Authentication: If your penny matches these criteria, have it authenticated by a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Other Valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies
While the 1943 copper penny is the most famous, other valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies exist. These include:
| Year/Type | Description | Reason for Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1944 Steel Penny | Made from leftover steel blanks from 1943. | Rare error coin. |
| 1909-S VDB Penny | First Lincoln Penny with designer’s initials “VDB.” | Only 484,000 minted. |
| 1955 Doubled Die Penny | A striking error causing doubled text. | Popular among collectors. |
Are 1943 Copper Pennies Still in Circulation?
The possibility of finding a $2 million penny in circulation is unlikely but not impossible. Experts believe a few of these rare coins might still be hiding in old jars, coin collections, or even as loose change.
Why You Should Check Your Change
The thought of discovering a 1943 copper penny worth millions has kept collectors and everyday people on the lookout. Checking your change may seem tedious, but history has shown that valuable coins often appear in the most unexpected places.
How to Confirm a Rare Penny’s Authenticity
If you believe you’ve found a rare 1943 copper penny, follow these steps:
- Check its weight (should be 3.11 grams).
- Test it with a magnet (it should not stick).
- Inspect its color (reddish-brown rather than silver).
- Send it to a grading service for authentication.
FAQs
How many 1943 copper pennies are believed to exist?
Only 20 to 30 genuine 1943 copper pennies are known to exist.
Why were pennies made of steel in 1943?
The U.S. Mint switched to zinc-coated steel to conserve copper for World War II production.
Can a 1943 copper penny still be found in circulation?
While highly unlikely, some experts believe a few may still be undiscovered in old collections or pocket change.
What’s the best way to authenticate a 1943 copper penny?
Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC provide accurate authentication.
