The 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in U.S. history. While most pennies in 1943 were made from zinc-coated steel due to the copper shortage during World War II, a small number of copper pennies were mistakenly produced.
These rare pennies have since become highly sought after by collectors. Let’s dive into the fascinating history, composition, and value of the 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny.
What Makes the 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny Special?
The year 1943 was a pivotal time for the United States, as World War II was in full swing. Due to the war effort, copper was needed for ammunition and other essential military supplies. As a result, the U.S. Mint decided to replace the copper in pennies with steel, coating them in zinc.
However, a few pennies were accidentally struck using copper blanks, leading to the creation of the now-famous 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny.
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Composition and Design
The 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny is made of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. It weighs 3.11 grams and has a diameter of 19 millimeters. The design is the same as other Lincoln Wheat Pennies of that era. On the front, or obverse, you’ll find a profile of President Abraham Lincoln, along with the words “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and the year 1943.
The reverse side of the coin features two stalks of wheat, which is why these pennies are often referred to as “Wheat Pennies.” The inscriptions on the back include “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “ONE CENT,” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
Why Did the U.S. Mint Switch to Steel Pennies?
During the war, copper became a critical resource for the production of ammunition, particularly for bullets. In response, the U.S. government ordered the Mint to conserve copper by using steel for pennies instead. As a result, millions of 1943 pennies were made from steel, but a small number of copper blanks remained in circulation, leading to the accidental creation of copper pennies.
The Rarity and Value of the 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny
Today, fewer than 50 of these rare copper pennies are believed to exist. Their scarcity has made them incredibly valuable, with some selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars at auctions. The value of these pennies depends on various factors, including their condition and mint mark.
The 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny comes in three varieties based on fthe mint location: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D mint mark), and San Francisco (S mint mark).
1943-D Copper Penny:
- Type: Lincoln Wheat Penny
- Mint Mark: D (Denver)
- Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
- Price Range: $212,750 to $840,000
1943-P Copper Penny:
- Type: Lincoln Wheat Penny
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Price Range: $186,000 to $372,000
1943-S Copper Penny:
- Type: Lincoln Wheat Penny
- Mint Mark: S (San Francisco)
- Price Range: $141,000 to $504,000
How to Tell If a 1943 Copper Penny Is Real
Due to the rarity and value of these pennies, many counterfeit coins have surfaced over the years. The simplest way to test whether a penny is made of copper or steel is with a magnet. A steel penny will stick to a magnet, while a genuine copper penny will not.
The Sheldon Coin Grading Scale
The value of a 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny is also influenced by its condition. The Sheldon Scale, which ranges from P-1 (Poor) to MS-70 (Mint State Perfect), is used to grade coins. The better the condition of the coin, the higher the value. For example, a coin graded MS-63 (Mint State Acceptable) can fetch a significantly higher price than one in VF-20 (Very Fine) condition.
Where to Buy or Sell a 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny
If you are lucky enough to own a 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny or wish to buy one, it’s essential to consult with professional coin grading services such as PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation). These organizations can authenticate and grade your coin, ensuring that you know its true value.
For selling, auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Legend Rare Coin Auctions are excellent platforms. You can also try selling through online platforms like eBay or Amazon, but remember that these sites might not fetch the highest price.
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Conclusion
The 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny is a fascinating piece of U.S. history, representing a unique period during World War II. Its rarity and value make it one of the most desirable coins for collectors worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just starting, owning a 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny is a true treasure.