Occasionally a common coin in change turns out to be one of the rarest errors in American numismatics. The 1943 Lincoln cent is a noted example: most were struck in steel that year, but a tiny number were struck on copper planchets. These copper examples are extremely scarce and can fetch prices in the millions.
Why the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Copper Penny Is Rare
The keyword here is the wartime metal change. In 1943, the U.S. Mint changed cents from bronze (copper) to zinc-coated steel to conserve copper for World War II. Most 1943 cents are steel and magnetic.
A small number of 1943 cents were struck on the leftover bronze planchets intended for 1942 production. Those copper-blank strikes became the famous 1943 copper pennies. They are rare because they were accidental and escaped early detection.
How the mistake happened
- Planchet mix-up: Bronze blanks remained in mint machinery when 1943 steel blanks were scheduled.
- Production volume: Millions of coins were struck; only a few copper examples slipped through.
- Distribution: Because they entered circulation, many were spent or lost before collectors noticed.
How to Spot a 1943 Copper Penny
Distinguishing a copper 1943 Lincoln wheat cent from the typical steel 1943 penny is straightforward with basic checks. Use these steps before handling or testing further.
- Magnet test: Steel 1943 cents are magnetic. If a 1943 penny does not stick to a magnet, it could be copper.
- Color and weight: Copper cents have a reddish-brown tone and weigh about 3.11 grams, whereas steel cents are lighter and silver-gray.
- Surface details: Copper examples show the same obverse/reverse design but will not have the silver steel finish.
Simple at-home checklist
- Look for the date ‘1943’ on the obverse and check mint mark location under the date.
- Test with a small magnet — do not scratch or damage the coin.
- Handle by the edges and place the coin in a clear holder or flip for protection.
Authentication and Grading Process
If you suspect you have a 1943 copper penny, the next step is professional authentication. Counterfeits and altered coins exist, so do not assume value without verification.
Trusted third-party grading services such as NGC or PCGS provide authentication, grading, and encapsulation. Their reports materially affect market value and buyer confidence.
What authentication includes
- Metal analysis: Confirming the coin is bronze/copper, not plated or altered.
- Visual inspection: Detecting tooling, re-datings, or cleaned surfaces.
- Grading: Assigning a condition grade that affects price (MS, AU, VF, etc.).
What to Do If You Find a Suspected 1943 Copper Penny
Take calm, deliberate steps to preserve value. Avoid cleaning, polishing, or performing invasive tests. These actions can severely reduce a coin’s value and hamper authentication.
Recommended steps:
- Handle only by the rim and place the coin in a soft holder.
- Take clear, high-resolution photos of obverse and reverse under natural light.
- Contact a reputable coin dealer or submit to a third-party grader for authentication.
Most 1943 cents are steel. Copper 1943 cents occur because a few bronze planchets were accidentally left in mint presses when the mint switched to steel for wartime needs.
Real-World Example: A Case Study
A private collector reported finding a ‘1943’ penny while sorting inherited coins. The coin showed the reddish tone of bronze and did not stick to a magnet. The collector submitted high-resolution photos to a respected dealer, who recommended submitting the piece to a third-party grading service.
After authentication confirmed the bronze composition and a high grade, the coin was professionally encapsulated. It later sold at public auction with strong bidding interest from multiple numismatists. This example illustrates the typical path from discovery to sale.
Lessons from the case study
- Do not clean or alter suspected error coins.
- Document the discovery with photos and notes about where and when the coin was found.
- Use reputable graders and auction houses to maximize sale value.
Market Considerations and Pricing
Values for authenticated 1943 copper pennies vary widely based on grade, provenance, and market conditions. High-grade examples with strong provenance attract top bids at auction.
If you plan to sell, consider multiple paths: private sale to a specialist dealer, auction with guarantees, or sale through a major numismatic house. Each option has fees and trade-offs in speed versus final price.
Quick selling checklist
- Get multiple authentication opinions if possible.
- Request a condition report and full provenance documentation.
- Compare offers from dealers and auction consignments for the best outcome.
Finding a rare 1943 Lincoln wheat copper penny can be life-changing for a collector or casual finder. By following careful handling, verification, and sale procedures, you can protect the coin’s value and ensure a fair market outcome.