| Feature | Copper Penny | Steel Penny |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Reddish-brown | Gray/silver |
| Magnetic? | No | Yes |
| Weight | ~3.11 grams | ~2.7 grams |
| Material | 95% Copper | Steel with zinc coating |
| Value | Up to $3.4 million | Usually less than $1 |
How to Spot the Real Deal in Your Pocket
If you suspect you’ve found a 1943 penny that looks a little… different, here’s what to do:
-
Check the Date: It must read “1943” clearly below Lincoln’s profile.
-
Magnet Test: If it sticks to a magnet, it’s steel (common). If not, you might have something special.
-
Color Check: Look for a copper or reddish hue—not the silvery tone of steel.
-
Weigh It: A copper penny weighs about 3.11 grams. Most kitchen or coin scales can detect the difference.
-
Get It Authenticated: Submit your coin to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. This step is crucial if you want to sell or insure it.
Also Read –The Lincoln Wheat Penny Valued at $4.8 Million, Still in Circulation
Famous Finds: Real-Life Coin Discoveries
-
Don Lutes Jr. discovered his 1943 copper penny in his school cafeteria change in 1947. He kept it for 70 years before it sold for $204,000 in 2019.
-
Another teenage collector once unknowingly owned one and sold it for a life-changing sum years later—proof that these treasures really do show up where least expected.
Where Rare Coins Like This Might Be Hiding
Believe it or not, a few of these copper pennies could still be in circulation or tucked away in:
-
Old piggy banks or childhood savings jars
-
Inherited coin collections from grandparents
-
Antique dressers or forgotten coin purses
-
Rolls of pennies from banks or credit unions
-
Boxes of coins at estate sales and flea markets
The dream is real: ordinary people have made extraordinary finds in the most unlikely places.
Tips for Aspiring Coin Collectors
Whether you’re new to the hobby or inspired by the copper penny legend, here are some quick-start tips:
-
Start Small: Begin by checking your own spare change.
-
Learn the Basics: Understand mint marks, dates, and error types.
-
Protect Your Finds: Store coins in holders or cases—no bare fingers!
-
Join a Community: Local coin clubs or online forums can help you learn and connect with others.
-
Stay Curious: Many rare coins exist beyond the 1943 penny. Always be on the lookout.
Fun Fact:
Did you know the U.S. Mint once made pennies out of plastic during testing in the 1940s? While never circulated, a few of these experimental pieces are now museum items.
Also Read – The Lincoln Wheat Penny Valued at $5.5 Million, Still in Circulation
FAQs About the 1943 Copper Penny
Q: Are all 1943 pennies worth money?
A: No. Most 1943 pennies are steel and only worth a few cents to a few dollars. Only the rare copper ones command high prices.
Q: How many 1943 copper pennies were made?
A: It’s believed that only 15–20 escaped the Mint accidentally.
Q: What’s the easiest way to tell if it’s copper?
A: Use a magnet. Copper won’t stick; steel will.
Q: Can I sell a rare penny myself?
A: Yes, but authentication is key. Once graded, you can sell it through auction houses like Heritage Auctions or GreatCollections.
Q: What if my 1943 penny turns out to be real?
A: Congratulations—you could be a millionaire! Talk to a certified coin dealer or auction house to explore your options.
Also Read – The Lincoln Wheat Penny Valued at $5.7 Million, Still in Circulation
Final Thoughts: Treasure Might Be Closer Than You Think
The 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just a coin—it’s a story of American history, wartime sacrifice, and one big minting mistake. Whether you’re hunting for one or simply checking the couch cushions, the dream of finding a million-dollar penny is a reminder that hidden treasures still exist.
So next time you hear a coin drop, listen closely. It might be your future fortune hitting the floor.