Coins can seem like everyday objects, but some have incredible value. One of the most famous and valuable coins in American history is the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny. This penny, which seems ordinary at first glance, can be worth millions of dollars. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this penny so special and why it is so highly sought after by collectors.
The Story Behind the 1943 Bronze Penny
During World War II, the U.S. was facing a shortage of copper, a key material used to mint pennies. In response, the U.S. Mint decided to switch the penny’s material to zinc-coated steel in 1943, creating what became known as the steel penny.
However, a small number of pennies were mistakenly struck in bronze (a copper alloy) instead of steel. This happened because leftover bronze planchets (blanks used to make the coins) from 1942 were used in the presses, resulting in about 10 to 20 bronze pennies being made that year. These coins are incredibly rare, making them highly valuable to collectors.
Why Is the 1943 Bronze Penny So Valuable?
The 1943 bronze penny’s value comes from its extreme rarity and historical significance. Only a few are known to exist, and these pennies are often sold for millions of dollars. Several factors contribute to its value:
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Rarity | Only about 10 to 20 exist, making them highly sought after. |
| Historical Significance | The penny was created during WWII when copper was scarce. |
| Condition | Well-preserved pennies fetch higher prices at auctions. |
In recent years, some examples of this coin have been sold for as much as $1.7 million at auctions.
How to Identify a 1943 Bronze Penny
It can be tricky to identify a 1943 bronze penny since most pennies from that year were made of steel. But here are some key things to look for:
| Characteristic | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Color | The bronze penny is reddish-brown, while steel pennies are silver. |
| Magnetic Test | Steel pennies are magnetic, while bronze pennies are not. |
| Weight | The bronze penny weighs 3.11 grams, while the steel penny weighs 2.7 grams. |
If you think you have a 1943 bronze penny, it’s important to get it professionally authenticated by a grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Famous Finds and Auctions
Some 1943 bronze pennies have made headlines for their high auction prices. For example, in 2019, a 1943-D bronze penny was sold for $1.7 million. Another famous example was discovered in 1947 by a 14-year-old boy, who found it in his change after buying a soda. He eventually sold the penny for over $200,000.
The 1943 Bronze Penny Today
While most people will never find one of these rare pennies, the excitement surrounding them continues to fuel interest in coin collecting. The story of the 1943 bronze penny reminds us that sometimes everyday objects can turn out to be worth much more than we expect.
If you find a 1943 penny in your change, make sure to take a closer look. It could be worth more than a million dollars!
FAQ’s
Why is the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny so valuable?
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny is rare because only about 10 to 20 were made by mistake, as most pennies that year were made of steel. This rarity and its historical significance make it worth millions.
How can I tell if I have a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny?
Look for a reddish-brown color (as opposed to the silver-colored steel pennies), and test with a magnet. Bronze pennies are not magnetic, while steel pennies are. Also, the bronze penny weighs 3.11 grams.
How much can a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny sell for?
A 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny can sell for over $1 million, with the highest auction price reaching $1.7 million. The value depends on its rarity, condition, and historical importance.