The Lincoln Wheat Penny, particularly the rare 1943 copper variant, stands as one of the most coveted coins in American numismatic history. While the majority of 1943 pennies were minted in steel due to wartime copper shortages, a few copper planchets were mistakenly used, resulting in an exceptionally rare coin. These error coins have fetched staggering sums at auctions, with some selling for up to $700,000 or more, depending on their condition and mint mark.
Understanding the 1943 Copper Lincoln Wheat Penny
In 1943, the U.S. Mint transitioned to using zinc-coated steel for pennies to conserve copper for World War II efforts. However, a limited number of copper planchets from 1942 were inadvertently used, leading to the creation of the 1943 copper pennies. These coins are distinguishable by their reddish-brown hue, unlike the silver-gray appearance of their steel counterparts.
Identifying a 1943 Copper Penny
To determine if you possess one of these rare coins, consider the following characteristics:
| Feature | 1943 Steel Penny | 1943 Copper Penny |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Silver-gray | Reddish-brown |
| Magnet Test | Not attracted to a magnet | Not attracted to magnet |
| Weight | Approximately 2.7 grams | Approximately 3.11 grams |
| Mint Marks | P, D, S | P, D, S |
| Estimated Value | Less than $1 | Up to $700,000 or more |
Note: The presence of a mint mark (D for Denver, S for San Francisco) can further influence the coin’s value. For instance, the 1943-D copper penny is among the rarest, with only one known example.
Notable Auction Sales
Several 1943 copper pennies have made headlines due to their impressive auction prices:
- 1943-S Copper Penny: Sold for $138,000 at Stack’s Bowers Auction. (Stacks Bowers)
- 1943-D Copper Penny: The only known example was sold for $1.7 million. (PCGS)
- 1943 Copper Penny (Philadelphia Mint): One specimen graded MS63 Red was sold for over $1 million. (PCGS)
Authenticating Your Coin
Given the high value of these coins, authentication is crucial. Professional grading services such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) can verify the authenticity and grade of your coin, providing certification that significantly enhances its market value.
Other Valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies
While the 1943 copper penny is exceptionally rare, other Lincoln Wheat Pennies are also highly sought after:
| Year & Mint Mark | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | First year of issue; designer’s initials on reverse | Up to $94,000 |
| 1914-D | Low mintage from Denver Mint | Up to $5,000 |
| 1922 No D | Missing mint mark due to die wear | Up to $30,000 |
| 1955 Doubled Die | Notable doubling of date and lettering | Up to $125,000 |
Note: Values are approximate and depend on the coin’s condition and market demand.
Additional Resources
For more information on coin collecting and authentication, consider visiting:
Common Questions
Q1: How can I tell if my 1943 penny is made of copper?
A: Perform a magnet test; copper pennies are not magnetic, whereas steel pennies are. Additionally, copper pennies weigh approximately 3.11 grams, compared to 2.7 grams for steel pennies.
Q2: Are there counterfeit 1943 copper pennies?
A: Yes, some counterfeit coins exist, often created by altering the date on 1948 copper pennies or plating steel pennies with copper. Professional authentication is essential to determine legitimacy.
Q3: Can I find a 1943 copper penny in circulation today?
A: While extremely rare, it’s not impossible. Some have been discovered in old collections or coin rolls.
Katherine Johnson is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.