The King of Coin Errors
The 1943-D Lincoln Wheat Penny struck in copper is the most famous and valuable penny error in U.S. numismatic history. While over 200 million steel pennies were minted in Denver that year, only 10-15 copper specimens are known to exist today.
Record-Breaking Sales
- 2010: $1.7 million (Private sale)
- 2021: $840,000 (Heritage Auctions)
- 2004: $212,750 (Earlier auction record)
How to Identify This Rare Coin
Key Authentication Features:
Date: Must be 1943
Mint Mark: “D” below date (Denver Mint)
Color: Copper/bronze (not silver-gray)
Weight: 3.11 grams (steel pennies weigh 2.7g)
Magnetic Test: Will not stick to magnet
![Side-by-side comparison showing copper vs. steel 1943 pennies]
Why It’s So Valuable
- Historical Context:
- Wartime metal conservation required steel pennies
- Copper planchets were accidentally left in presses
- Extreme Rarity:
- Only 13 confirmed specimens
- Fewer than 5 in mint state condition
- Collector Demand:
- “Holy Grail” for Lincoln cent collectors
- Needed for complete penny collections
Grading & Value Guide
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| AU55 | 500,000−500,000−750,000 |
| MS60 | 800,000−800,000−1,000,000 |
| MS63+ | $1,500,000+ |
Note: All values for authenticated examples
Where These Rarities Are Found Today
- Museum Collections (Smithsonian has one)
- Top-Tier Private Collections
- Occasionally at Major Auctions
Beware of Counterfeits
Warning: More fakes exist than real specimens. Always:
- Get PCGS/NGC certification
- Verify with XRF metal testing
- Consult professional authenticators
“I Found a 1943 Copper Penny – Now What?”
- Don’t Clean It!
- Handle by Edges Only
- Take High-Quality Photos
- Contact PCGS/NGC Immediately
Grading Cost: $300+ (worth it for potential million-dollar coin)
Want More? Download our FREE Rare Penny Identification Guide at [TrueCoinErrors.com]
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PS: That odd-looking 1943 penny could be life-changing money – check carefully! 
