A forgotten penny from 1943 just made headlines by selling for a jaw-dropping $1.7 million at auction. The coin? A rare 1943 copper Lincoln penny — a minting mistake that turned into a collector’s dream. Even more incredible: you might unknowingly have one in your pocket, coin jar, or inherited stash.
Why Is the 1943 Copper Penny So Valuable?
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to steel pennies to save copper for the war effort. But a few leftover copper planchets from 1942 were accidentally used in 1943, creating a few ultra-rare coins.
- Fewer than 20 known to exist
- Most are from Philadelphia, with a few from San Francisco and only one from Denver
- The one recently sold was graded MS64, a near-perfect condition
How to Tell If You Have One
You don’t need to be an expert — just follow these steps:
- Check the Date – Look for “1943” on your Lincoln penny
- Look at the Color – Copper = reddish brown; Steel = silver-gray
- Magnet Test – Steel sticks, copper doesn’t
- Weigh It – Copper pennies weigh 3.11g, steel ones are lighter
- Check for Mint Mark – “D,” “S,” or no mark — all are rare in copper
- Get It Authenticated – Use PCGS or NGC before selling
Important: Many fakes exist — authentication is key before assuming value.
Where to Sell If You Have One
- Do not clean it — this lowers the value
- Get a professional grade from a reputable service
- Use trusted auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Legend Rare Coin Auctions
- Avoid unverified sales platforms
Other Valuable Pennies to Watch
| Coin | Value |
|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | $800 – $12,000+ |
| 1914-D | $300 – $5,000+ |
| 1922 No D | $500 – $10,000+ |
| 1955 Double Die | $1,000 – $25,000+ |
| 1944 Steel Penny | $40,000 – $500,000+ |
Final Thoughts
Rare coins like the 1943 copper penny prove that history and hidden value can show up in the most ordinary places. Check your change — the next million-dollar discovery could be in your hands.
FAQs – Rare 1943 Penny
Q1: How do I know if I have a real 1943 copper penny?
Use a magnet — copper isn’t magnetic. Also, weigh it; copper is 3.11g.
Q2: Can damaged ones still be valuable?
Yes. Even worn or circulated 1943 copper pennies can be worth hundreds of thousands.
Q3: Is it legal to own and sell them?
Absolutely — as long as they’re authentic and legally owned.
Q4: What’s the best way to avoid buying a fake?
Only buy from certified dealers or have it authenticated by PCGS/NGC.