Lincoln Wheat Penny: If you’re someone who casually checks your pocket change or has an old jar of coins collecting dust in the attic, here’s a fact that might change your life: a rare 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny made of bronze has sold for up to $1.7 million at auction. Yes, a single penny—worth just one cent when minted—could now fund your retirement or your child’s college education. The key is knowing exactly what to look for and how to spot this million-dollar mistake.
During World War II, copper was in short supply due to its vital role in ammunition and military equipment. As a result, the U.S. Mint temporarily switched to steel for minting pennies in 1943. But a tiny number of bronze blanks (also known as planchets) were accidentally used that year—creating one of the most valuable error coins in American history.
This Lincoln Wheat Penny Could Make You a Millionaire
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny |
| Estimated Value | Up to $1.7 million at auction |
| Mistake Type | Minting error – wrong planchet used |
| How to Spot | Bronze color, non-magnetic, 3.11g weight |
| Authentication | PCGS or NGC coin grading services |
| Other Rare Pennies | 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1955 Doubled Die |
| Official Resource | https://www.pcgs.com |
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just a coin—it’s a piece of history and potentially a life-changing find. If you come across an old penny that seems out of the ordinary, don’t brush it off. With the right tools, knowledge, and professional help, you might discover a six-figure treasure hiding in plain sight.
What Makes the 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny So Valuable?
The rarity of the 1943 bronze penny is tied to its historical context. In 1943, the U.S. Mint was ordered to use zinc-coated steel instead of copper to help the war effort. However, some leftover bronze planchets—used in 1942—were accidentally fed into the coin presses. These rare coins slipped through undetected and entered circulation.
So far, less than 20 genuine examples have been verified across all three mints (Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco), making it a holy grail for collectors.
Lincoln Wheat Penny: How to Identify a 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny?
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you determine whether your penny could be worth a fortune.
1. Check the Date and Color
The year should read “1943” and the coin should appear reddish-brown or copper-colored, not the typical grayish steel look of most 1943 pennies.
2. Perform the Magnet Test
Steel pennies are magnetic, while bronze ones are not. If your 1943 penny doesn’t stick to a magnet, that’s a strong indicator it might be a bronze error coin.
3. Weigh the Coin Accurately
A genuine 1943 steel penny weighs 2.7 grams, while the bronze version weighs about 3.11 grams. Use a digital scale for precision.
4. Look for the Mint Mark
- No mark = Philadelphia
- “D” = Denver
- “S” = San Francisco
Some 1943 bronze pennies from the Denver mint are considered the rarest, with only one known to exist as of today.
5. Get Professional Authentication
Given the number of counterfeit 1943 bronze pennies, professional grading is essential. Services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) will confirm authenticity and assign a grade that significantly affects the coin’s market value.
Other Lincoln Wheat Pennies Worth Big Money
The 1943 bronze penny isn’t the only one that could line your pockets. These other rare Lincoln Wheat pennies have also fetched thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—at auction:
1. 1909-S VDB
- First year of the Lincoln cent
- Features designer Victor David Brenner’s initials (“VDB”)
- Only 484,000 minted
- Value: Up to $100,000+ in mint condition
2. 1914-D
- Minted in Denver with low production (~1.1 million)
- High-grade examples are highly prized
- Value: $5,000–$25,000+ depending on condition
3. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse
- A famous minting error where the year and lettering appear doubled
- Highly visible to the naked eye
- Value: $1,500–$50,000+
Tips for Finding Rare Pennies in the Wild
It’s unlikely you’ll find a 1943 bronze penny in everyday circulation—but it’s not impossible. Here’s where to look:
1. Check Old Coin Jars and Piggy Banks
Many people have jars of pennies collected over decades. Take time to go through them.
2. Ask Family Members
Grandparents or older relatives may have kept older currency out of habit. Offer to help sort through it!
3. Estate Sales and Flea Markets
Coin collections are sometimes sold off in bulk without full appraisals. These are goldmines for hidden treasures.
What To Do If You Think You’ve Found One
- Don’t clean the coin – this can reduce its value.
- Test for magnetism and weigh the coin.
- Take clear, close-up photos.
- Send the coin for professional grading.
- Consult coin dealers or auction houses if confirmed authentic.
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FAQs on Lincoln Wheat Penny
Q1. Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
No. Most 1943 pennies were made of steel and are worth less than $1. Only the rare bronze versions carry high value.
Q2. How can I tell if a 1943 penny is bronze or steel?
Check the color (coppery vs. silvery), use a magnet, and weigh the coin. Bronze pennies are heavier and non-magnetic.
Q3. Where can I get a penny authenticated?
Trusted services include PCGS (pcgs.com) and NGC (ngccoin.com).
Q4. How many 1943 bronze pennies exist?
Fewer than 20 verified pieces exist, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins ever.
Q5. Can I sell a rare penny directly to collectors?
Yes, but it’s better to work with a reputable auction house or dealer for maximum value.
