This 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny Just Sold For $530K – Check Your Spare Change!

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The world of coin collecting is full of surprises, and one of the most legendary coins—the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny—has once again made headlines.

Recently, a certified example sold for $530,000, proving that even the smallest coin can carry life-changing value. If you’ve ever wondered whether your spare change could hold such a treasure, now is the time to look closely.

Why the 1943 Bronze Penny Exists

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During World War II, the U.S. Mint made a historic change: copper was redirected for war production, so 1943 pennies were struck in zinc-coated steel.

However, a small number of bronze planchets (used in 1942) accidentally got caught in the presses, leading to the creation of one of America’s most famous mint errors.

Only around 20 examples are known today, and they have become legendary among collectors.

The Legacy of the 1943 Bronze Penny

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The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny is more than just a rare minting mistake—it’s a symbol of history, scarcity, and collector passion. Each discovery fuels excitement in the numismatic community, often making headlines worldwide.

Its appeal isn’t just monetary; it connects collectors to the World War II era and the sacrifices made on the home front.

For everyday people, finding one represents the dream of turning spare change into a life-changing windfall. Whether you’re a casual hobbyist or a serious investor, this coin proves that hidden treasures can still be discovered in the most unexpected places.

Known Varieties and Survivors

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The rarity of this penny comes not only from the year but also from the mint where it was struck.

MintSurvivors (est.)Record SaleNotes
Philadelphia (no mint mark)10–12$372,000+Several known, highly collectible
San Francisco (S)6$504,000Finest example sold in 2020
Denver (D)1 (unique)$1.7 millionOne-of-a-kind rarity

Recent Market Highlights

  • In 2025, an AU55-certified bronze cent sold for $264,000, showing strong continued demand.
  • A Philadelphia example in 2021 fetched $372,000.
  • The finest-known San Francisco specimen realized $504,000 in 2020.
  • The unique Denver bronze cent brought an astonishing $1.7 million in 2010.
  • The most recent report of $530,000 confirms that these coins remain six-figure treasures.

How to Identify a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny

Think you might have one? Here’s how to check:

  1. Magnet Test – A genuine bronze penny will not stick to a magnet, while the common 1943 steel cents will.
  2. Weight Test – Bronze weighs around 3.11 grams, compared to steel’s 2.70 grams.
  3. Visual Clues – Authentic bronze cents show a reddish-brown patina, not the silvery appearance of steel.
  4. Mint Mark Check – Look below the date for an S (San Francisco) or D (Denver). The Philadelphia coins have no mint mark.
  5. Certification – To confirm authenticity, submit your coin to a grading service like PCGS or NGC.

Common Mistakes and Fakes

  • Replated Steel Cents: Many ordinary 1943 steel pennies have been coated with copper to look like bronze.
  • Altered Dates: Some 1948 pennies have been filed down to resemble 1943.
  • Damaged Coins: Cleaning or scratching a potential bronze cent can ruin its value—always get professional evaluation first.

What to Do if You Think You Have One

  1. Weigh it and check with a magnet.
  2. Take clear photos and note results.
  3. Submit to a professional grading company for authentication.
  4. Consider auction houses for selling, since big venues drive competitive bidding.

The story of the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny reminds us that extraordinary value can hide in plain sight. With confirmed sales reaching $530,000 and beyond, this coin remains a crown jewel in American numismatics.

If you come across a 1943 penny that’s non-magnetic and weighs correctly, you might just be holding a fortune in your hands.

FAQs

How many 1943 Bronze Lincoln Pennies exist?

Only about 20 are known worldwide, making them one of the rarest U.S. coins.

What makes these pennies valuable?

Their accidental minting, extreme rarity, and collector demand push their values into the hundreds of thousands—sometimes over a million.

How can I tell if mine is real?

A genuine bronze penny weighs about 3.11 grams and does not stick to a magnet. Certification is essential to confirm authenticity.