A single penny could make you richer than you ever imagined. The Lincoln Wheat Penny, minted from 1909 to 1958, includes a rare version that’s reportedly worth up to $169 million. The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny, a mistake from the World War II era, is one of the most valuable coins in the world. Experts believe a few of these pennies might still be in circulation, tucked away in coin jars or loose change. Here’s why this penny is so special and how to find one.
Why Is This Penny So Valuable?
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to making pennies from steel to save copper for the war effort. But in 1943, a tiny number of pennies were accidentally struck in bronze at the Denver Mint. These “error” coins are incredibly rare, with only about 15 to 20 known to exist. One sold for $1.7 million in 2010, and experts estimate a pristine example could fetch up to $169 million today due to its rarity and collector demand. The coin’s history and scarcity make it a holy grail for coin hunters.
The Story Behind the 1943 Bronze Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, designed by Victor David Brenner, features Abraham Lincoln on the front and wheat stalks on the back. In 1943, the Mint used steel to make pennies, coating them with zinc to prevent rust. But a few bronze planchets—leftover from 1942—were mistakenly used, creating the rare 1943 Bronze Penny. These coins slipped into circulation, and some were found years later by lucky collectors. The coin’s wartime backstory and minting error make it a piece of American history that collectors crave.
How to Spot a $169 Million Penny
Not every 1943 penny is worth millions, so you need to know what to look for. Here’s how to check:
- Material: Most 1943 pennies are steel and stick to a magnet. The rare bronze version does not.
- Mint mark: Look for a “D” under the date, showing it was made in Denver. No mint mark (Philadelphia) or an “S” (San Francisco) can also be valuable, but Denver is the rarest.
- Weight: Bronze pennies weigh about 3.11 grams, while steel ones are lighter at 2.7 grams.
- Condition: Coins with clear details and no wear are worth the most.
Use a magnet, a scale, and a magnifying glass to check your penny. If you think you have a bronze one, get it appraised by a professional grader like PCGS or NGC.
| Feature | Standard 1943 Penny | Rare 1943 Bronze Penny |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel (zinc-coated) | Bronze |
| Weight | 2.7 grams | 3.11 grams |
| Mint Mark | D, S, or none | D (most valuable) |
| Value | $0.01–$0.10 (worn) | Up to $169 million |
Where to Find This Penny
You might have a fortune sitting in your change. Check old piggy banks, family coin collections, or even the change from your local coffee shop. These pennies were in circulation decades ago, so they could turn up in unexpected places like flea markets, estate sales, or coin rolls from banks. Coin shows and online auction sites like eBay are good places to look, but always buy from trusted sellers to avoid fakes. Joining collector groups or following coin forums can help you learn where to hunt.
What to Do If You Find One
If you find a 1943 penny that doesn’t stick to a magnet, don’t clean it—cleaning can scratch it and lower its value. Store it in a protective holder and contact a reputable coin dealer or grading service. They’ll verify if it’s a genuine bronze penny and estimate its worth. If it’s the real deal, you could sell it at auction for millions or keep it as a rare treasure. Even worn examples can fetch hundreds of thousands.
A Penny Worth Millions
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny shows that small change can hold big surprises. With just a few still out there, you could stumble across one in your pocket or an old jar. Grab a magnet and start checking—your next penny might be worth $169 million!