Ash Smith
Imagine discovering a nondescript penny buried in your loose change, only to learn it’s a rare error coin worth more than a luxury car.
The 1943 copper penny falls into that unbelievable category. Despite being nearly spent, its recent auction fetched nearly $1 million, making headlines across numismatic communities.
Background: Why 1943 Was Supposed to Be Steel
- In 1943, due to World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to zinc‑coated steel pennies to conserve copper for military use
- All three mints (Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco) struck over 1.09 billion steel cents that year
- However, a few bronze planchets from 1942 remained in machinery and were accidentally struck with a 1943 date.
The Rarity and Authentication
- Only around 15–40 genuine 1943 bronze cents are believed to exist
- These error coins are non‑magnetic and weigh about 3.11 grams, compared to 2.7 g for steel cents
- Authentic examples have distinct characteristics: sharp strike quality, long‑tailed “3” on the date, edges unaffected by steel rust
Notable Sales & Valuations
| Year Sold | Mint Mark | Grade & Type | Sale Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 1943‑D | Bronze, MS‑65 approx. | $1.7 million | Denver‑minted, one of the finest and most valuable |
| 2018 | Philadelphia? | Copper, PCGS MS‑63 RD | $1 million+ | Certified by PCGS; featured in Money Museum exhibit |
| 2021 | 1943‑D | Bronze MS‑64 | $840,000 | Auctioned via Heritage, Denver find |
| 2025 (Jan) | Unspecified | Bronze circulated | $264,000 | January auction |
| 2025 (Apr) | Unspecified | Bronze error | $500,000+ | Multiple sales in recent years |
Why These Coins Are Priceless
- Scarcity: Fewer than 40 are known, with fewer than 15 confirmed authentic pieces
- Historical Significance: Wartime minting error – the only non‑steel pennies struck in 1943
- Collector Demand: High‑grade examples fetch seven‑figure sums; even circulated specimens command six‑figure prices.
How to Verify Your 1943 Penny
- Check magnetism: Non‑magnetic → likely copper; steel cents stick to magnets.
- Weigh it: ~3.11 g. Steel is lighter (~2.7 g).
- Inspect numerals and mintmark: Look for sharp dies and long‑tailed “3.”
- Seek grading: Professional services like PCGS or NGC provide authentication and grading.
Recent Developments
- A PCGS MS‑63RD copper 1943 penny sold privately for over $1 million and was featured at the Money Museum in Colorado
- In early 2025, circulated copper 1943 pennies sold for $264K and $500K+, confirming soaring market values
Market Comparisons
Compared to other high‑value coins:
- 1933 Saint‑Gaudens $20 sold for $18.9 million in 2021, the most valuable US coin
- 1913 Liberty Head nickel examples have sold for $3–5 million
While not at that level, the 1943 copper penny still ranks among the top error coins of American minting.
The 1943 copper penny is more than just a rare coin—it’s a piece of American history and a testament to the value of paying attention to small details.
With only a few dozen believed to exist, this error coin has fetched prices exceeding $1 million, making it one of the most sought-after collectibles in numismatics.
If you come across a 1943 penny that isn’t magnetic and feels slightly heavier, don’t ignore it—it could be a life-changing discovery hiding in plain sight.
FAQs
What makes the 1943 copper penny so special?
The US Mint switched to steel during WWII. A few leftover bronze planchets were mistakenly used, creating an extremely rare error coin—the only copper pennies dated 1943.
How many 1943 copper pennies exist?
Estimates range from 15–40, with roughly a dozen confirmed and authenticated through PCGS/NGC
Can regular people still find one?
Possibly. Copper 1943 pennies still circulate. If you find a non‑magnetic, heavy 1943 cent, it’s worth professional grading—even circulated specimens are fetching hundreds of thousands.