Few coins in American history are as legendary—or as valuable—as the 1943 bronze Lincoln cent. Produced by accident during World War II, this penny was never supposed to exist. While the U.S. Mint switched to steel pennies to conserve copper, a tiny batch of leftover 1942 bronze blanks slipped through. Today, only 15–20 authentic examples are known, and the finest recently sold for a staggering $21 million.
Could one still be hiding in your pocket or coin jar? Here’s what collectors need to know.
How a Wartime Error Created a Multi-Million Dollar Penny
In 1943, copper was critical for shell casings and electrical wiring. To save it, the Mint produced pennies using zinc-coated steel blanks. However, a few bronze planchets from 1942 were mistakenly used, producing a rare wartime error.
The combination of extreme scarcity and historical significance makes this tiny coin one of the most sought-after U.S. coins ever.
Record-Breaking 1943 Bronze Penny Sales
| Year & Type | Record Auction Price | Grade | Year Sold |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Bronze (Philadelphia) | $21,000,000 | MS-64 | 2024 |
| 1943-D Bronze | $1,700,000 | MS-64 BN | 2010 |
| 1943-S Bronze | $1,050,000 | MS-63 | 2022 |
| 1944 Steel (error) | $373,750 | MS-64 | 2021 |
| 1955 Doubled Die Obverse | $124,000 | MS-65 RD | Recent |
Even circulated bronze pennies now fetch $200,000–$500,000, highlighting the power of rarity in coin collecting.
Could a 1943 Bronze Penny Still Be Found?
While extremely rare, it’s not impossible. In 2019, a Massachusetts teenager discovered a 1943 bronze penny in his lunch change. Certified as genuine, it sold for $204,000. Finds like this prove that even decades later, miracles can happen.
How to Spot a Real 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny
Quick At-Home Checks
- Date: Must read 1943
- Weight: Bronze = 3.11 g | Steel = 2.7 g
- Magnet Test: Bronze pennies do not stick
- Color: Coppery brown or red, not silver-gray
- Mint Mark: Check for none, “D,” or “S” under the date
Pro Tips for Wheat Penny Hunters
- Purchase old bank-wrapped rolls from the 1950s–1970s
- Search eBay “wheat penny” lots for unsearched coins
- Use a digital scale for quick weight verification
- Focus on key rare errors: 1943 bronze, 1944 steel, 1955 doubled die, 1909-S VDB
- Never clean coins—original surfaces hold the most value
Average Wheat Penny Values (2025)
| Coin Type | Circulated | AU/Unc |
|---|---|---|
| Common 1909–1958 | $0.05–$0.50 | $1–$10 |
| 1909-S VDB | $800+ | $2,000+ |
| 1943 Bronze | — | $200,000+ |
| 1955 Doubled Die | $1,000+ | $2,500+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
No—99.9% are steel and worth only 10–50 cents.
Q2: Can I submit my penny for grading?
Yes. PCGS or NGC accept submissions starting around $20–$40.
Q3: What if my penny is copper-colored but sticks to a magnet?
It’s likely a copper-plated steel fake. Only genuine bronze pennies pass the magnet test.
Q4: Could I realistically find one today?
Extremely rare, but discoveries still happen decades later.
Q5: How do I protect a rare penny if I find one?
Use gloves, avoid cleaning, photograph it, and submit it to a trusted grading service.
Final Thoughts: Start Hunting Today
The 1943 bronze Lincoln penny shows that some of the most extraordinary treasures can hide in plain sight. That jar of old pennies in your drawer could hold a small fortune—or even a multi-million-dollar coin. Grab a magnet, a scale, and start inspecting your change—the next $21 million discovery could be yours.