In a remarkable twist of fate, what started as a nostalgic look through an old grandfather’s tackle box turned into a life-changing discovery. Hidden among rusty fishing lures and faded bobbers was a small coin that would make headlines across the collector world — a rare 1943 bronze Lincoln penny, now estimated to be worth well over $400,000.
This accidental find has reignited excitement around one of the rarest coins in American numismatic history.
The Coin That Wasn’t Supposed to Exist
During World War II, copper was desperately needed for ammunition and wartime machinery. As a result, the U.S. Mint made a major change in 1943 — switching from copper-based bronze pennies to zinc-coated steel.
However, a few bronze planchets (the blanks used to strike coins) accidentally remained in the presses at the Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Denver mints. This resulted in a handful of 1943 bronze pennies being struck and released into circulation unnoticed.
These misprints are now some of the rarest coins in U.S. history — and one just surfaced in a dusty old tackle box.
The Unexpected Discovery in a Tackle Box
The coin was discovered by a grandson cleaning out his late grandfather’s fishing gear in May 2025. Nestled beneath a pile of fishing weights and hooks, the shiny brown penny stood out from the typical gray-toned steel cents known from 1943.
After a non-magnetic test, followed by a precise weight check showing approximately 3.11 grams, it was clear — this wasn’t an ordinary penny. It was a legitimate 1943 bronze Lincoln cent.
Why the 1943 Bronze Penny Is So Valuable
The 1943 bronze penny is valuable not only for its rarity, but also for its historical significance and minting error status. Only a few dozen authentic examples are known to exist today, and their market value continues to soar with collector demand.
What Makes It Valuable:
- Historical Minting Error: Struck during a transition year when bronze should not have been used.
- Extremely Limited Supply: Estimates suggest fewer than 40 authentic pieces exist.
- High Collector Demand: Collectors and investors both covet these ultra-rare coins.
Estimated Value Based on Mint Mark
Each coin’s value can vary depending on the mint location and its condition. Here’s a breakdown:
| Mint Location | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Philadelphia (no mark) | $150,000 – $400,000 |
| San Francisco (S) | $300,000 – $500,000 |
| Denver (D) | Up to $840,000 |
Note: The Denver mint version is the rarest, with only one confirmed authentic piece known to exist.
The recently found 1943 bronze penny in the tackle box is believed to be from the Philadelphia mint, making it one of only around 20 such coins currently authenticated.
How to Identify a Real 1943 Bronze Penny
If you suspect you have a rare coin like this, here are some quick identifiers:
- Magnet Test: Bronze is not magnetic. If your penny sticks to a magnet, it’s likely steel.
- Weight Check: Real bronze pennies weigh around 3.11 grams, while steel cents weigh about 2.7 grams.
- Color: Bronze pennies have a rich reddish-brown or chocolate color, unlike the silver-gray hue of steel cents.
Authentication by a certified coin grading service is the only way to confirm true value.
What Happened After the Find?
The grandson who discovered the coin contacted a professional numismatist to verify its authenticity. After being graded and certified in mint state condition, it is now scheduled for auction later this year, with bidding expected to exceed $400,000.
This windfall has turned a sentimental day of sorting through fishing gear into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — all thanks to a grandfather’s overlooked penny.
The discovery of a 1943 bronze penny in a grandfather’s tackle box is more than just a lucky find — it’s a reminder that history and value can hide in the most unexpected places.
This rare coin is a symbol of wartime change, minting mystery, and numismatic prestige. For one family, it turned an ordinary clean-out session into a fortune.
If you’ve inherited a box of coins, or have old change lying around, it might be time to take a closer look. Who knows? You could be holding the next six-figure surprise in your hands.
FAQs
Are there fake 1943 bronze pennies out there?
Yes. Some scammers plate regular 1943 steel cents with copper to fool collectors. That’s why proper grading and authentication are essential.
Where can I sell a rare coin like this?
You can approach reputable auction houses or certified coin dealers who specialize in high-value numismatics.
Can this happen to anyone?
Absolutely. Many rare coins end up in old drawers, jars, or collections passed down through families. Always check old coins before discarding or spending them.