Most 1943 pennies are steel coated with zinc, struck that way because copper was diverted for World War II. A very small number of 1943 pennies were mistakenly struck on bronze planchets meant for 1942 pennies. These rare copper examples have been sold for prices in the millions, and a specimen recently made headlines reaching about $1.8 million.
What is the 1943 copper penny?
The phrase “1943 copper penny” refers to Lincoln cents minted in 1943 on a bronze or copper planchet instead of the intended steel. Because copper was reserved for the war, the U.S. Mint switched to steel that year. Any 1943-cent that is copper is an error and extremely scarce.
How to identify a 1943 copper penny
If you come across a 1943 penny, quick visual checks can help you decide if further action is warranted. Most 1943 cents are silver-gray steel with a magnetic response. Copper examples look like standard bronze pennies.
Visual and simple checks
- Look at the color: Copper 1943 cents have a brown or reddish-brown appearance like other bronze Lincoln cents.
- Try a magnet: Steel 1943 cents are attracted to a magnet. Copper examples are not magnetic.
- Examine the date and design: The obverse should read 1943 and show Lincoln; the reverse is the wheat design for that era on many examples.
When to suspect an error coin
Suspect an error coin if the coin is non-magnetic, displays a typical bronze color, and is clearly dated 1943. Do not assume value based solely on color—contamination or altered finishes can mislead you.
Authentication and grading for a potential $1.8M coin
If you believe you have a 1943 copper penny, do not clean or alter it. Cleaning can severely reduce value and make authentication harder. The next step is professional grading and authentication.
Steps to authenticate
- Keep the coin untouched in a protective flip or holder.
- Photograph the coin in good light, front and back, including date close-ups.
- Consult a local reputable coin dealer for an initial opinion.
- Submit the coin to a major grading service such as PCGS or NGC for definitive authentication and grading.
How value is determined
Several factors determine the market value of a 1943 copper penny. Authentication and grading are primary. After that, condition, provenance, and market demand influence price.
- Authentication: Certified genuine by PCGS or NGC is essential.
- Grade/condition: Higher mint-state grades command dramatically higher prices.
- Provenance: A well-documented chain of custody can increase buyer confidence.
- Market timing: Auction interest and competing collectors affect final sale price.
What to do if you find one
Finding what might be a 1943 copper penny is exciting. Follow a cautious plan to preserve value and avoid pitfalls.
Practical steps
- Do not clean the coin or apply chemicals.
- Handle only by the edges and place it in a coin sleeve or flip.
- Get opinions from at least two reputable coin dealers before selling privately.
- Consider professional grading; certified coins fetch far higher prices at auction.
- Use established auction houses or trusted dealers for sale to avoid scams.
Common scams and mistakes to avoid
Because of the high value, some dishonest parties will try to exploit sellers. Be wary of lowball offers, unsolicited buyers, and requests for immediate sale without documentation.
- Avoid selling sight unseen to unknown buyers.
- Be skeptical of buyers who pressure you to ship the coin before payment authorization.
- Watch for altered coins: chemical toning or artificial methods can mimic bronze color.
Case study: A real-world sale of a 1943 copper penny
One well-documented example involved a certified 1943 bronze cent that reached headline-making prices at auction. The coin’s certification, clear provenance, and mint-state condition contributed to a sale price in the seven-figure range. The auction included professional images, third-party grading, and an established auction house, which reassured bidders and directly influenced the final price.
Key takeaways from that sale:
- Certification by a major grading service was critical.
- High-resolution images and professional auction listing increased bidder trust.
- Provenance documentation reduced buyer risk and drove competitive bidding.
Final checklist if you think you have a 1943 copper penny
- Do not clean or alter the coin.
- Keep the coin safely stored and handle minimally.
- Get preliminary opinions from reputable dealers.
- Submit to PCGS or NGC for authentication and grading.
- Use an established auction house or trusted dealer to sell.
Finding a rare 1943 copper penny is rare but possible. With careful handling and proper authentication, a genuine example can be worth a very large sum—making careful steps and professional support essential.