In 1943, during World War II, the United States needed large amounts of copper for weapons and other war supplies. To save copper, the U.S. Mint started making one-cent coins (pennies) using steel coated with zinc. But by mistake, a few leftover copper blanks from 1942 were used to make some 1943 pennies. These rare coins are now among the most valuable in American history—some are worth lakhs of rupees today!
Why the 1943 Copper Penny is So Rare
Most 1943 pennies were made of steel because copper was needed for the war. However, a few copper blanks accidentally got mixed into the minting machines. These copper coins from 1943 were never meant to exist, which is why they are so rare.
There are fewer than 20 confirmed 1943 copper pennies known to exist today. Because of this, collectors and investors around the world are willing to pay huge amounts for them.
How to Identify a Real 1943 Copper Penny
Here are some easy tests and signs to check if your 1943 penny is one of the rare copper versions:
Date: Check if the coin has the year 1943 clearly stamped.
Color: Real copper pennies will look brownish-red, like normal one-cent coins made before 1943. Steel pennies usually look grey or silver.
Magnet Test: Use a magnet. If the coin sticks to the magnet, it’s steel and not rare. If it doesn’t stick, there’s a chance it could be copper.
Weight Test:
- Use a small digital scale.
- Copper penny: around 3.11 grams
- Steel penny: around 2.7 grams
Sound Test:
- Drop the coin gently on a hard surface.
- Copper coins make a different sound than steel ones—a softer “clink” instead of a high-pitched ring.
How Much is a 1943 Copper Penny Worth?
Because of its rarity, the value of a real 1943 copper penny can be extremely high:
- In 2019, one copper 1943 penny sold for $204,000
- A 1943-D version (minted in Denver) sold for a record $840,000
- Only fewer than 20 real copper 1943 pennies are known to exist
Expert Tip for Coin Owners
If you think you’ve found a 1943 copper penny, don’t clean it or try to improve it—it could lose value. Instead:
Use a magnet and scale to do basic testing
If it passes, send it to a professional coin grading company like PCGS or NGC for authentication and official grading
The 1943 copper penny is not just a piece of metal—it’s a rare mistake from history that can be worth lakhs. If you come across an old penny with the 1943 date, check it carefully. A quick magnet test and weight check could help you discover a life-changing treasure. And if you’re lucky enough to own one, professional grading is your next step to unlock its true value.
FAQ’s
Why is the 1943 copper penny so rare?
In 1943, the U.S. Mint used steel to save copper for the war. A few copper blanks were accidentally used, creating rare coins.
How can I tell if my 1943 penny is copper?
Use a magnet—it should not stick. Also check the color (brownish-red) and weight (around 3.11 grams).
What is the value of a real 1943 copper penny?
A genuine 1943 copper penny can sell from $200,000 to over $800,000, depending on condition and mint mark.
Should I clean a 1943 penny before selling it?
No. Cleaning can damage the coin and reduce its value. Leave it as it is and get it professionally graded.
Where can I get a 1943 copper penny authenticated?
Send it to trusted grading companies like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company).
