During World War II, the U.S. Mint replaced the usual bronze in pennies with zinc-coated steel to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a handful of 1943 pennies were erroneously minted on copper, turning them into highly prized collector’s items. This article delves into these unique wartime pennies‘ history, production details, and rarity.
Table of Contents
Historical Context
World War II’s Influence on American Coinage
World War II profoundly influenced many facets of American life, including its coinage. With the war intensifying, copper—a vital resource for munitions and other war-related needs—became scarce. To address this, the U.S. Mint turned to alternative materials for coin production.
In 1942, legislation permitted a temporary shift in the metal composition of Lincoln cents. Instead of traditional materials, these coins were made from zinc-coated steel, conserving copper and tin crucial for American military operations in Europe and Japan.
In 1943, billions of these steel Lincoln wheat pennies were produced across the three U.S. Mints. However, a few were unintentionally minted on leftover copper planchets that remained in the hoppers. Only about 40 of these copper pennies were released, making them extraordinarily rare. By 1944, a coin dealer unearthed a 1943 copper penny in extra-fine grade, fetching a price of roughly $40,000.
This rarity piqued the curiosity of collectors and the public alike, leading to heightened interest and value for the 1943 copper penny in numismatic circles.
The Significance of the 1943 Copper Penny
Copper was deemed essential for producing artillery shells, electrical wiring, and various other military applications. Recognizing its critical role, the U.S. government initiated a campaign to encourage citizens to turn in their copper items for the war effort.
This included copper pots, pans, and even copper pennies. In this context, the U.S. Mint transitioned from copper to zinc-coated steel for penny production in 1943.
Production of the 1943 Copper Penny
How Many Were Produced?
Not until the 1950s did credible accounts surface about the copper-plated pennies. The three U.S. Mints—Denver, Philadelphia, and San Francisco—collectively minted 40 of these 1943 copper pennies, marking them as rarities. The Philadelphia Mint accounted for 20 of these, while San Francisco and Denver produced the rest. Yet, of the original 40, only 27 are known to exist today, with 13 unaccounted for.
Mintage Mistakes: How the Copper Penny Came into Existence
The 1943 copper penny came into being largely due to minting oversights. As the mints transitioned from copper to steel planchets, some copper ones were mistakenly left in the hopper. These were unintentionally used, giving birth to the 1943 copper penny. These anomalies went unnoticed at first, allowing the coins to circulate alongside their steel counterparts.
The 1943 Copper Penny Design Composition and Dimensions
Obverse Side
The 1943 copper penny’s obverse showcases a distinguished profile of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President, dressed in a suit and bow tie, gazing to the right. Above Lincoln’s likeness, the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” encircles the coin’s edge, symbolizing American unity.
The word “LIBERTY” stands proudly to Lincoln’s immediate left, representing the nation’s shared values and unity. Positioned just above his chest, one can find the minting year “1943.”
Even with slight wear, these details remain prominent. Victor David Brenner crafted this iconic design, which has adorned the penny since 1909.
Reverse Side
The coin’s reverse boasts profound symbols and inscriptions. At the top rim, the Latin phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM” is prominently displayed, which served as the U.S. motto at the time.
Below the motto, in the most pronounced lettering, is the denomination “ONE CENT.” The coin’s origin, “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” is gracefully scribed at the bottom center.
Flanking the denomination and the nation’s name are twin wheat sheaths that arc outward. These emblematic sheaths have bestowed upon the coin its moniker: the “1943 copper wheat penny.
The 1943 Copper Penny Composition
The 1943 Lincoln Copper penny features a weight of 3.11 grams, a diameter of 19 millimeters (0.75 inches), and a thickness of 1.55 mm (0.061 inches).
Composed of 95% copper combined with 5% zinc and tin, this coin exudes a unique charm and offers resistance to rapid wear and corrosion. These round pennies are characterized by their smooth edges.
The 1943 Copper Penny Value
The 1943 Wheat Copper Penny stands as one of the most coveted and valuable pieces in U.S. numismatic lore. Individual coins can command prices ranging from $100,000 to $250,000 at auctions. As noted by PCGS, a pristine, top-graded 1943 copper penny might garner between $1 million and $1.5 million, if not higher.
1943 D Copper Penny Value
Pennies minted in Denver (identified by the “D” mint mark) are highly sought after and can fetch premium prices. That’s due to their scarcity and historical value. PCGS graded and verified 1943-D copper penny is worth $1.5 million.
1943 S Copper Penny Value
San Francisco minted pennies, marked with an “S,” are rarer than their counterparts from other mints. This contributes to their elevated value among collectors. PCGS-rated 1943-S copper coins are worth $1 million.
1943 Copper Penny No Mint Mark
Pennies without a mint mark originate from the Philadelphia Mint. They are also valuable, with their worth hinging on factors like condition and historical significance. These precious coins are sought-after pieces among collectors and go for between $100,000 and $250,000 at the auction.
1943 Copper Penny $1.7 Million
One of the most astounding sales in numismatic history involved a 1943 Copper Penny fetching a staggering $212,750 in 2003 at the Goldberg Auctioneers.
Later, in 2010, the same penny fetched a whopping $1.75 million, underscoring the exceptional value these coins can command. The unique 1943-D copper penny, graded by PCGS as an MS64 Brown Penny, holds the record for the highest price.
1943 Copper Penny Value Chart
| Mint Mark | Good | Fine | Extremely Fine | Uncirculated |
| 1943 Copper Penny with No Mintmark | $100,000 | $150,000 | $200,000 | $250,000 |
| 1943 D Copper Penny | $100,000 | $150,000 | $200,000 | $250,000 |
| 1943 S Copper Penny | $100,000 | $150,000 | $200,000 | $250,000 |
Famous Discoveries, Ownership & Notable Auctions
1943 copper pennies have surfaced in the most unexpected locations through the years, from casual pocket change to passed-down collections. These serendipitous finds ignite the passion of numismatic aficionados, spawning tales of rediscovered riches.
Historic auctions of 1943 copper pennies have often been the talk of the coin world. Spirited bidding wars among eager collectors and investors drive up their values. A standout event was in 2010 when a 1943 copper penny was auctioned for $1.7 million, marking a pinnacle in coin collecting lore.
1943 Copper Penny FAQs
How to Clean a 1943 Copper Penny
Cleaning old coins is generally discouraged by numismatists because it can potentially damage the coin’s surface and reduce its value. If you have a 1943 copper penny, it’s best to leave it as is or consult a professional coin conservator for proper cleaning techniques.
How to Tell If a 1943 Copper Penny Is Real
Ensuring the authenticity of a 1943 copper penny is paramount, given the presence of counterfeits and tampered coins in circulation. Savvy collectors often turn to trusted coin grading services and the expertise of esteemed numismatists to confirm a coin’s legitimacy.
Critical markers, including weight, dimensions, and particular mint details, serve as guides to distinguishing genuine 1943 copper pennies. These coins are typically magnetic, weighing 3.11 grams, measuring 19 millimeters in diameter, and having a thickness of 1.55 millimeters. Notably, the distinct appearance of the number ‘3’ further sets the copper penny apart from its steel variant.
How Many 1943 Copper Pennies Were Made
The exact number of 1943 copper pennies produced is unknown, but it is widely believed that only 40 pieces were struck. Of these, only 23 units exist, and 17 are still missing. The scarcity of these coins adds to their allure and contributes to their high market value.
How Much Does a 1943 Copper Penny Weigh
Unlike its steel counterpart, a 1943 copper penny weighs 3.11 grams. This standard weight is consistent with other U.S. pennies of the time.
Conclusion
The 1943 copper penny’s tale is a mesmerizing fusion of history, wartime necessities, minting mishaps, and the avid quests of collectors. With their distinct makeup and scarce availability, these coins are invaluable. Individual pieces can command prices ranging from $100,000 to $250,000; some even breach the million-dollar mark.
But the attraction of each penny transcends its fiscal worth; it represents the joy of discovery and the excitement of possessing a tangible relic from the past. As enthusiasts persist in their hunt for these rare gems, the legend of the 1943 copper penny endures, reminding us of the remarkable stories hidden within the everyday realm of spare change.
2 comments
Where hay quien celed the Penny silver Penny
I have a 1943 copper wheat penny. I had no idea they are worth that much. I would like some help getting it authenticated. It does not stick to even the strongest magnet, the print is authentic and the approximate weight and size are a match. And it sounds different, almost a hollow sound. There is no mint mark. I’m not sure where to start or who to talk to. I also have a couple 1945 wheat pennies. One is minted D and the other has no mint. I’m not sure about those two. I haven’t studied them enough.
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