The Lincoln Wheat Penny, minted from 1909 to 1958, is a staple in American numismatics. While most are worth only face value, certain rare variants have fetched astonishing sums at auctions.
Among these, the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny stands out, with reports suggesting it could be valued at up to $301 million.
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny: A Wartime Rarity
In 1943, due to copper shortages during World War II, the U.S. Mint produced pennies using zinc-coated steel.
However, a few bronze planchets from 1942 were mistakenly used, resulting in the rare 1943 bronze pennies. Only about 10 to 20 of these coins are known to exist, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Identifying a 1943 Bronze Penny
To determine if you possess one of these rare coins, consider the following:
- Magnet Test: Steel pennies are magnetic; bronze pennies are not.
- Color: Steel pennies have a silver-gray appearance, while bronze pennies exhibit a reddish-brown hue.
- Weight: Bronze pennies weigh approximately 3.11 grams, compared to 2.7 grams for steel pennies.
- Professional Appraisal: Given the prevalence of counterfeits, it’s advisable to have the coin authenticated by a reputable expert.
Other Valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies
While the 1943 bronze penny garners significant attention, other Lincoln Wheat Pennies also hold substantial value:
| Year | Mint Mark | Notable Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909 | S VDB | First year of issue with designer’s initials | Up to $100,000 |
| 1914 | D | Low mintage | Up to $75,000 |
| 1922 | No D | Missing mint mark | Up to $50,000 |
| 1955 | – | Double die error | Up to $125,000 |
| 1944 | Steel | Minted on steel planchets | Up to $75,000 |
The allure of discovering a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny, especially the elusive 1943 bronze variant, continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.
While the reported $301 million valuation may be speculative, the coin’s rarity and historical significance are undeniable. If you stumble upon an old penny, it might be worth more than just one cent.
FAQs
How many 1943 bronze Lincoln Wheat Pennies are known to exist?
Approximately 10 to 20 specimens are known, making them extremely rare.
Why were some 1943 pennies minted in bronze instead of steel?
Due to leftover bronze planchets from 1942, a few were mistakenly used in 1943, resulting in the rare bronze pennies.
Can I find a valuable Lincoln Wheat Penny in circulation today?
While rare, it’s possible. Some valuable pennies have been discovered in circulation or old coin collections.