Your loose change could be hiding a treasure worth more than you’d ever imagine. Lincoln Wheat Pennies, minted from 1909 to 1958, are common coins, but a few rare ones can sell for hundreds of thousands. One penny, in particular, stands out for its jaw-dropping value, potentially worth up to $750,000. Collectors are always on the hunt for these coins because of their history and rarity. Let’s look at the penny to check for and other valuable ones that might be in your wallet.
The 1943 Bronze Penny
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny is one of the most famous coins in U.S. history. During World War II, pennies were made from steel to save copper for the war effort, but a few bronze pennies were accidentally minted in 1943. Only about 20 are known to exist, making them incredibly rare. One in top condition sold for $750,000 at auction. To spot it, look for a 1943 penny that’s copper-colored, not silver like the steel ones, and check for a mint mark like “D” or “S.”
Why It’s So Rare
The 1943 Bronze Penny is valuable because it was a mistake. The U.S. Mint meant to make all 1943 pennies from steel, but a small number of bronze blanks got mixed in. These error coins are now legends among collectors. If you find one, even in worn condition, it could be worth tens of thousands. Be careful, though, some people plate steel pennies with copper to fake them, so always get a professional to check it.
Other Valuable 1943 Pennies
Not all 1943 pennies are bronze, but other versions are worth looking for. The 1943-D Steel Penny with a doubled die obverse, where the date or lettering looks doubled, can sell for $1,000 or more in good shape. The 1943-S Steel Penny is also collectible, especially in pristine condition, fetching hundreds. If you find a 1943 penny with a “D” or “S” mint mark, it’s worth a closer look for doubling or other errors.
| Coin | Feature | Estimated Value (Top Condition) |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 Bronze | Copper color | $750,000 |
| 1943-D Doubled Die | Doubled date | $1,000+ |
| Coin | Mint Mark | Estimated Value (Good Condition) |
|---|---|---|
| 1943-S Steel | “S” mint mark | $500+ |
| 1943-D Steel | “D” mint mark | $300+ |
How to Find These Pennies
Start by digging through your change, coin jars, or old collections. Use a magnifying glass to check the date and mint mark, usually found under the date. For the 1943 Bronze Penny, hold it near a magnet, steel pennies will stick, but bronze ones won’t. If you think you have a rare coin, take it to a professional grader like PCGS or NGC to verify its authenticity. Don’t clean the coin, as that can lower its value.
A Piece of History in Your Pocket
The 1943 Bronze Penny is more than just money, it’s a snapshot of a time when the U.S. was focused on winning a war. Its rarity and story make it a collector’s dream. Even if you don’t find a bronze penny, other 1943 varieties can still bring in good cash. Next time you’re counting your pennies, check the date, that 1943 coin in your wallet might just be worth $750,000.