Imagine discovering a humble penny in your pocket, only to realize it’s worth nearly $500,000. It sounds like a fantasy, but for coin collectors and sharp-eyed enthusiasts, it’s a dream that has come true. One of the rarest finds in American numismatics—a 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny mistakenly struck in bronze—is valued at nearly half a million dollars. And believe it or not, a few might still be hiding in everyday change.
Why the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny Is So Special
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, introduced in 1909 and produced until 1958, was designed by Victor D. Brenner. It featured President Abraham Lincoln on the front and two wheat ears on the back. While most of these coins are common and worth only modest amounts, some rare versions are incredibly valuable.
In 1943, as part of the U.S. wartime effort during World War II, the Mint switched from copper to steel to save copper for military use. Most pennies struck that year were made of zinc-coated steel and had a shiny, silver-like appearance. However, a small number of coins were mistakenly minted using leftover bronze (copper-based) planchets from 1942.
These rare bronze versions from 1943 are now considered one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history. Fewer than 20 authentic examples have been confirmed, with one selling for over $500,000 at auction. Experts believe there may still be a few of these rare pennies waiting to be found.
How to Spot a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny
If you’re hoping to uncover one of these treasures, here’s how to identify it:
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Color | A copper or brown appearance (not silver or gray) |
| Magnet Test | Should not stick to a magnet (steel will) |
| Weight | About 3.11 grams (steel pennies weigh roughly 2.7g) |
A true 1943 bronze penny will have the distinct coppery tone of earlier pennies. If it doesn’t stick to a magnet and weighs slightly more than a steel penny, it’s worth a second look—and possibly a professional evaluation.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Found One
If you suspect you’ve stumbled across one of these rare coins, the first and most important step is authentication. Only a certified grading service can confirm if your penny is genuine. Trusted options include
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
These services will not only verify the coin’s authenticity but also assign it a grade, which can significantly influence its market value.
Once verified, you can sell your rare coin through
- Major auction houses (e.g., Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers)
- High-end private collectors
- Specialized coin dealers
Auction platforms typically yield the highest returns, though be mindful of associated fees and commissions.
Could a $500,000 Penny Still Be Out There?
Amazingly, yes. There’s a chance that some 1943 bronze pennies are still out in the world, sitting in forgotten coin jars, inherited collections, or overlooked in everyday change. Because most people don’t closely inspect pennies, these ultra-rare coins can go unnoticed.
Hunting through coin rolls from the bank or carefully checking your pocket change might just lead to an unexpected jackpot.
The idea of a penny being worth hundreds of thousands of dollars may sound far-fetched, but the story of the 1943 bronze Wheat Penny proves that extraordinary finds can come from ordinary places. With so few known examples, every penny you find could be worth a closer look.
FAQs
How much is a 1943 steel penny worth?
Generally, 1943 steel pennies are common and range in value from a few cents to a few dollars, depending on condition.
How can I tell if my 1943 penny is bronze or steel?
Check the color (copper vs. silver), test it with a magnet (steel sticks; bronze doesn’t), and weigh it (bronze weighs ~3.11g, steel ~2.7g).
Where can I sell a rare penny like this?
After getting it authenticated, consider selling through coin auctions, reputable dealers, or directly to collectors.
Can a local coin dealer verify a rare penny?
They may give an initial opinion, but for high-value coins, an official certification from PCGS or NGC is strongly recommended.
Are there other valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies?
Yes! Notable examples include the 1909-S VDB and 1914-D pennies, which are highly prized by collectors.