Imagine reaching into your change jar and pulling out a coin worth $1 million. Sounds unbelievable? Not if it’s a 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny—one of the rarest coins ever minted in U.S. history. This small copper coin, once meant for everyday use, is now a collector’s dream, with experts believing that a few could still be circulating today.
Let’s explore why this coin is so valuable, how you can tell if you have one, and what steps to take if you suspect you’ve found a hidden treasure.
Why the 1943 Bronze Penny Is Worth $1 Million
In 1943, the U.S. Mint made a historic change due to World War II. Copper was needed for ammunition and military supplies, so pennies were made from zinc-coated steel instead. However, a few copper blanks from 1942 were accidentally used, resulting in a very limited number of bronze pennies minted in 1943.
These were never supposed to exist—making them incredibly rare. To date, only a few dozen genuine 1943 bronze pennies have been authenticated, with one Philadelphia-minted example valued at $1 million.
What Makes It So Special?
Aside from its rarity, the coin represents a wartime anomaly—an error in minting that turned into a historical artifact. The bronze 1943 penny comes in three possible mint variations:
| Mint Location | Mint Mark | Known Examples | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | (no mark) | ~10–12 | Up to $1 million |
| Denver | D | 1 confirmed | $1.7 million+ |
| San Francisco | S | 6 confirmed | $500,000–$900,000 |
How to Tell If You Have the $1M Penny
Here are five simple tests to help identify if your 1943 penny could be bronze:
1. Check the Date
Look for the year 1943. If the coin is brown or reddish (like most pennies), it’s worth examining further.
2. Color Test
Steel pennies are silver-gray. If your 1943 penny is copper or bronze-colored, keep going.
3. Magnet Test
Grab a magnet. Steel sticks to a magnet. A bronze coin won’t. If it doesn’t stick, that’s a good sign.
4. Weigh It
Use a digital scale. A bronze penny weighs about 3.11 grams. A steel penny weighs around 2.7 grams.
5. Look for Mint Marks
Below the date, check for:
- No mint mark = Philadelphia
- “D” = Denver
- “S” = San Francisco
All are valuable, but Philadelphia versions are the most commonly found among the rare few.
What to Do If You Think You Found One
Don’t Clean It. Don’t Alter It.
Cleaning or polishing the coin can ruin its value. Keep it as-is.
Get It Authenticated
Contact a reputable grading service such as:
These experts can confirm if your penny is the real deal and assign it a grade and estimated value.
Where to Sell Rare Coins
Once authenticated, you can sell it through:
- GreatCollections
- Heritage Auctions
- Local coin dealers via ANA’s Dealer Directory
Why Some Rare Pennies Might Still Be Out There
Many people stored old coins in jars, boxes, or inherited collections. Some rare coins like the 1943 bronze penny slipped through the cracks and ended up back in circulation or forgotten in attics. That’s why collectors and treasure hunters are still searching—and some have found these coins in the most unexpected places.
What If You Have Other Wheat Pennies?
Not all are worth millions, but many pre-1959 Lincoln Wheat Pennies can have value based on rarity, condition, and mint marks. Notable ones include:
| Year | Mint Mark | Notes | Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | S | First year of issue, low mintage | $500 – $3,000+ |
| 1914-D | D | Scarce date | $150 – $2,000+ |
| 1922 No D | (none) | Minting error | $400 – $3,500+ |
| 1955 | (none) | Double die | $1,000 – $10,000+ |
So even if you don’t have the million-dollar coin, your collection could still be worth something.
Sometimes, history hides in plain sight. The 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just a coin—it’s a symbol of how a small mistake can become a million-dollar miracle. Whether you’re a serious collector or someone cleaning out an old drawer, it’s worth taking a second look at your change. That one penny could change your life.
FAQs
Why is the 1943 bronze penny so valuable?
Because it was a minting error during WWII. Copper wasn’t supposed to be used in 1943, making these coins extremely rare.
How can I tell if my 1943 penny is bronze or steel?
Try the magnet test. Steel sticks, bronze doesn’t. Also check the color—bronze looks brown or reddish.
What’s the best way to sell a rare penny?
Get it authenticated by PCGS or NGC. Then sell it through an auction house or trusted dealer.
Are there other valuable Wheat Pennies?
Yes, key dates like 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, and 1955 double die can be very valuable.
Can I clean my old coins before selling them?
No. Cleaning coins can lower or destroy their value. Always leave them in original condition.
