Why the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Copper Penny Is Famous
The U.S. Mint switched from bronze to zinc-coated steel planchets in 1943 to conserve copper for World War II. Because of that change, a copper-colored 1943 Lincoln Wheat cent is an unexpected minting error.
These error cents are extremely rare and attract intense interest from collectors and auction houses. A verified example can reach prices in the seven-figure range because they broke the rules of the time.
How a 1943 Copper Penny Error Happens
Errors like a 1943 copper penny typically occur when a bronze planchet from another year is left in the press and a 1943 die strikes it. That single mistake during production is what creates the rarity.
Because the 1943 copper examples are so scarce, even one confirmed specimen can change hands for a very large sum at auction.
How to Spot a 1943 Copper Penny in Circulation
Checking a 1943 Lincoln Wheat cent takes only a few simple tests. Use these quick checks before doing anything else.
- Visual color: A true copper 1943 will look brown or reddish, not silver-gray like the steel cents.
- Magnet test: A steel 1943 cent will stick to a magnet. A copper (bronze) cent will not.
- Weight: Bronze cents weigh about 3.1 grams; the 1943 steel cent weighs less (use a precise scale if available).
- Edge and corrosion: Steel cents often show surface rust or a silver patina. Copper retains a copper tone and patina.
Quick checklist for non-experts
- Look for brown/copper color.
- Try a magnet — if it’s magnetic, it’s almost certainly steel.
- Don’t clean, scrape, or polish the coin.
Officially, the U.S. Mint used steel planchets for pennies in 1943 to save copper for wartime needs. Any 1943 copper-looking penny is usually a mint error and potentially very valuable.
What to Do If You Find a 1943 Copper Penny
If you suspect you have a 1943 copper penny, handle it carefully. Small mistakes can destroy value quickly.
Follow these steps to preserve the coin and prepare for authentication.
- Do not clean the coin. Cleaning can severely reduce collector value.
- Place the coin in a soft holder or flip to protect it from damage.
- Photograph the coin clearly from both sides in good light.
- Have it authenticated by a respected third-party grader such as PCGS or NGC.
- Get insurance and use tracked shipping if you send the coin to an expert.
Value: Why 1.8 Million Appears in Headlines
When a 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat cent is authenticated and graded highly, auction prices can reach the low millions. Headlines often cite values like 1.8 million as an approximate realized price for top examples.
Value depends on provenance, grade, and whether the piece has clear documentation linking it to a minting error. Low-grade or damaged error examples sell for much less.
Factors that affect price
- Grading grade (MS, PR, or a numerical grade like MS65).
- Well-documented provenance and prior auction records.
- Condition and clarity of the date and design details.
- Market demand at the time of sale.
Case Study: Auction Authentication and Sale
A well-documented auction case shows how the process works. A 1943 copper Lincoln wheat cent submitted to a major auction house was first examined by third-party graders. After authentication and grading, it was offered with provenance and photos.
The coin attracted competitive bidding from museums, private collectors, and dealers. Because the piece had clear photos, expert verification, and no signs of post-mint alteration, it sold for a price in the multi-million-dollar range.
This example highlights the steps that protect and increase value: careful handling, expert authentication, and transparent auction presentation.
Practical Tips for Collectors and the Public
Most people will never see a 1943 copper penny in everyday change, but being informed helps preserve potential value.
- If you collect coins, purchase a good digital scale and a non-marring holder.
- If you find a suspect coin in change, separate it and photograph it immediately.
- Use only established graders for authentication—look for PCGS, NGC, or ANACS listings.
- Keep documentation: where and when you found the coin, and who handled it.
Final Thoughts on the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Copper Penny
The 1943 copper penny is a striking example of how a small production error can become a major numismatic event. A single coin can carry huge monetary and historical value if verified properly.
If you think you’ve found one, don’t rush. Protect the coin, document it, and seek professional grading. That cautious approach is the best way to preserve potential value and avoid costly mistakes.