In 1943, during World War II, the United States Mint made a significant change to the composition of the Lincoln Wheat Cent, transitioning from the traditional copper alloy to zinc-coated steel. This shift was intended to conserve copper for wartime necessities.
However, a few pennies were mistakenly struck on bronze planchets, resulting in some of the most coveted and valuable error coins in American numismatic history. These rare 1943 bronze pennies have fetched prices up to $1.7 million at auction.
1. 1943-D Bronze Cent
The 1943-D Bronze Cent is one of the most famous and valuable error coins. Minted at the Denver facility, this penny was mistakenly struck on a bronze planchet instead of the intended steel.
In 2010, a specimen graded MS64BN (Mint State 64 Brown) by PCGS sold for a record-breaking $1.7 million, making it one of the most expensive small cents ever sold.
2. 1943-S Bronze Cent
Another highly sought-after coin is the 1943-S Bronze Cent, produced at the San Francisco Mint. Only a handful of these coins are known to exist.
In 2016, a PCGS-graded AU58BN (About Uncirculated 58 Brown) example was auctioned for $282,000, highlighting its rarity and desirability among collectors.
3. 1943 Bronze Cent (Philadelphia Mint)
The Philadelphia Mint also produced a limited number of bronze cents in 1943. These coins are exceedingly rare, with only about 20 known examples. One such coin was sold for $372,000, underscoring its significant value to numismatists.
4. 1943-S Steel Cent with Obverse Error
While the standard 1943 steel cents are common, certain error variants can be quite valuable. A notable example is the 1943-S Steel Cent featuring a depression in Lincoln’s forehead and a die chip above the date.
Such unique errors can attract significant interest from collectors, though their value varies based on the error’s prominence and the coin’s condition.
5. 1943 Steel Cent Struck on a Bronze Planchet
Occasionally, a 1943 steel cent was mistakenly struck on a bronze planchet. These error coins are exceptionally rare and have fetched high prices at auctions. For instance, a 1943 cent struck on a bronze planchet graded AU53 (About Uncirculated 53) by NGC was sold for a substantial amount, reflecting its rarity and collector interest.
6. 1943 Bronze Cent with Die Breaks
Some 1943 bronze cents exhibit die breaks or cracks, resulting from defects in the die used during minting. These imperfections can create unique patterns on the coin, increasing its appeal to collectors.
The value of such coins depends on the size and location of the die break, as well as the coin’s overall condition.
7. 1943 Bronze Cent with Doubled Die Obverse
A Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) occurs when the coin’s design is struck twice, slightly offset, resulting in a doubling effect. A 1943 bronze cent with this error is extremely rare and highly prized.
The value of such a coin can reach significant sums, especially if the doubling is prominent and the coin is in excellent condition.
| Coin Type | Description | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1943-D Bronze Cent | Minted in Denver; struck on bronze planchet | $1.7 million |
| 1943-S Bronze Cent | Minted in San Francisco; struck on bronze planchet | $282,000 |
| 1943 Bronze Cent (Philadelphia Mint) | Minted in Philadelphia; struck on bronze planchet | $372,000 |
| 1943-S Steel Cent with Obverse Error | Steel cent with depression in Lincoln’s forehead and die chip above date | Varies |
| 1943 Steel Cent on Bronze Planchet | Steel cent mistakenly struck on bronze planchet | Substantial amount |
| 1943 Bronze Cent with Die Breaks | Bronze cent exhibiting die breaks or cracks | Varies |
| 1943 Bronze Cent with Doubled Die Obverse | Bronze cent with doubled die obverse error | Significant sums |
FAQs
- Why are 1943 bronze cents so valuable?
- In 1943, the U.S. Mint switched to steel planchets to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few bronze planchets were mistakenly used, resulting in extremely rare coins highly sought after by collectors.
- How can I tell if my 1943 penny is bronze or steel?
- A simple test is to use a magnet. Steel cents are magnetic, while bronze cents are not. Additionally, bronze pennies have a distinctive reddish-brown color, whereas steel pennies appear silver-gray.
- Are all 1943 steel pennies valuable?
- Most 1943 steel pennies are common and hold minimal value. However, those with unique errors or in exceptional condition can be worth more.
- What should I do if I believe I have a 1943 bronze penny?
- It’s advisable to have the coin authenticated and graded by a reputable service such as PCGS or NGC to determine its authenticity and value.
- Can 1943 bronze pennies still be found in circulation?
- While it’s highly unlikely, rare coins have occasionally been discovered in pocket change. However, the chances are extremely slim due to their rarity and the attention they receive from collectors.
A bronze penny weighs what.