A rare coin hiding in plain sight? That’s the story of the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny — a humble cent that could be worth close to $900,000 today. Despite being minted over 80 years ago, experts believe a few of these rare coins may still be circulating, overlooked in old coin jars, bank rolls, or tucked away in forgotten collections. Here’s what makes this penny so valuable and how you might be able to spot one.
Why the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny Is So Valuable
In 1943, the U.S. Mint switched from bronze to zinc-coated steel for pennies to conserve copper for World War II efforts. However, by mistake, a small number of bronze planchets (coin blanks) remained in the machines and were struck into 1943 pennies. These bronze pennies were never meant to exist, making them incredibly rare — with only about a dozen confirmed examples.
The rarity, combined with historical significance and collector demand, has driven prices sky-high. In fact, one such penny sold for nearly $900,000 at auction, cementing its place as one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history.
How to Identify a 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny
Think you might have one of these hidden treasures? Here’s what to look for:
| Test | What to Check For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Date & Mint Mark | 1943 with no mint mark (Philadelphia), “D” (Denver), or “S” (San Francisco) | All bronze 1943 pennies are rare, regardless of mint. |
| Color | Brown or copper-colored (instead of silver-gray) | Steel pennies are gray; bronze is copper-toned. |
| Magnet Test | Does not stick to a magnet | Steel sticks to a magnet; bronze does not. |
| Weight | Weighs about 3.11 grams | Steel weighs ~2.7g; bronze is heavier. |
| Condition | Minimal wear, no major scratches | Better condition increases value. |
If your penny matches these traits, you may be holding something extraordinary.
What to Do If You Find One
Before jumping to conclusions, it’s crucial to verify authenticity. Many counterfeits and altered coins exist, so professional evaluation is a must. Contact a reputable coin grading service such as PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) to have the coin authenticated and graded. Only certified coins will attract top dollar from collectors or at auction.
Could It Still Be in Circulation?
Surprisingly, yes. Experts believe a few of these ultra-rare 1943 bronze pennies might still be out there — passed unknowingly through hands for decades, hidden in piggy banks, or forgotten in inherited collections. That’s what keeps coin hunters and casual collectors searching: the possibility of finding a six-figure treasure in an ordinary coin jar.
Final Thoughts
The 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny isn’t just a coin — it’s a remarkable error that turned into one of the most coveted finds in American numismatic history. Its rarity, backstory, and eye-popping value make it a true hidden gem. So the next time you sift through loose change or stumble upon an old collection, take a closer look. That lucky penny might be worth far more than a cent.
FAQs
What’s the difference between a 1943 bronze and a 1943 steel penny?
The bronze penny is copper-colored, weighs 3.11 grams, and doesn’t stick to a magnet. The steel penny is silver-gray, weighs 2.7 grams, and is magnetic.
How many 1943 bronze pennies exist?
Only about a dozen are confirmed, with some from Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints.
How much is a 1943 bronze penny worth?
Depending on condition and mint mark, it can sell for several hundred thousand dollars — one sold for nearly $900,000.
How do I sell a rare penny?
First, have it authenticated by a grading service like PCGS or NGC. Then explore reputable auction houses or coin dealers specializing in rare coins.
Can I clean my old coins to make them look better?
No — cleaning coins can damage them and lower their value. Leave rare coins in their original state and let professionals handle preservation.