1943 Copper Penny Surprise 1.8 Million Lincoln Wheat Still Circulating

Every so often a common coin date hides an extraordinary mistake. The 1943 Lincoln Wheat cent is one of those surprises. While most 1943 cents were struck on steel, a few rare copper planchets produced genuine 1943 copper pennies that now command huge sums.

What Is the 1943 Copper Penny?

The 1943 copper penny is an unintended error piece from World War II. In 1943 the U.S. Mint shifted cents from bronze to zinc-coated steel to conserve copper for the war effort.

A very small number of bronze planchets were accidentally left in the coin presses, creating 1943-dated cents struck in copper rather than steel. These coins have a Lincoln obverse and a Wheat reverse like other pre 1959 cents.

Why the 1943 Lincoln Wheat Penny Is Valuable

Value comes from extreme rarity and collector demand. A genuine 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat penny is one of the most sought after modern error coins.

Rarity: Only a handful of confirmed examples exist.
Composition error: Bronze on a steel year is a clear mint mistake.
Condition: High grade examples fetch far higher prices.
Provenance and certification: Graded and documented coins sell better.

How to Identify a 1943 Copper Penny

Correct identification matters. Use non destructive checks first and avoid cleaning the coin.

Visual color: Copper cents look brown or reddish; 1943 steel cents are silver gray.
Magnet test: Steel cents are magnetic; bronze/copper cents are not. Use a small magnet near the coin—no contact is best.
Weighing: A typical bronze cent weighs about 3.11 grams; the 1943 steel cent weighs about 2.7 grams. Use a precision scale to compare.
Date and details: Check the date, mint mark, and strike details. Errors or atypical die marks can offer clues but require expert comparison.

If the coin appears non magnetic and closer to bronze weight, do not clean it. Document its appearance with photos and seek professional verification.

What to Do If You Find a 1943 Copper Penny

Follow practical steps to preserve value and confirm authenticity. Mistakes or improper handling can reduce the coin’s worth.

Do not clean, rub, or polish the coin. Cleaning damages value.
Place the coin in a soft holder or coin flip and record where and when you found it.
Take clear photos: obverse, reverse, and any close details.
Perform a non invasive magnet test and weigh on a precise scale.
Consult a reputable coin dealer or submit the coin to a professional grading service such as PCGS or NGC for authentication.

Practical Example: Steps to Submit for Authentication

Here is a short, practical checklist you can follow.

Document: Photograph and note location found.
Protect: Use a coin flip and avoid touching the surfaces.
Contact: Reach out to a professional dealer for a preliminary opinion.
Submit: If the dealer advises, send the coin to a grading service with insured shipping.

Did You Know?

Steel cents were used in 1943 to save copper for ammunition and other wartime needs. Only a very small number of 1943 bronze cents are confirmed, making them extremely rare and desirable.

Case Study: A Rare Sale Reaching About 1.8 Million

One well documented sale of a 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat cent reached a price approaching 1.8 million dollars at public auction. That sale shows how the market values extreme rarity combined with solid provenance and professional grading.

Key points from the sale:

Grading: The coin was authenticated and graded by a major third party grading company.
Provenance: Documentation of ownership history increased buyer confidence.
Auction venue: A major auction house attracted competitive bidding and media attention.

This real world outcome is a reminder that if you suspect you have such a coin, careful handling and proper authentication are essential.

Protecting and Selling a Rare 1943 Lincoln Wheat

If the coin is genuine, work with professionals. Selling a high value coin requires attention to security, fees, and legal considerations.

Authentication: Only coins certified by established graders will command top prices.
Consignment vs private sale: Auctions can reach more buyers but charge fees. Private sales may be faster but require trusted intermediaries.
Insurance: Insure the coin during transport and while listed for sale.
Legal and tax advice: Large sales may have tax implications. Consult a professional before finalizing a sale.

Where to Get Help

Turn to established resources in numismatics for help. Consider these options:

Major grading services: PCGS, NGC.
Reputable auction houses with coin departments.
Experienced numismatic dealers and local coin clubs for initial guidance.

Finding or owning a genuine 1943 copper penny can be life changing. The key is to stay calm, protect the coin, get professional authentication, and choose the right path for selling or holding the piece.

With careful steps you can confirm authenticity and preserve maximum value. If you think you have found a 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat cent, follow the identification and submission steps above and consult professionals before making decisions.