The Lincoln Wheat Penny, a staple of American coinage from 1909 to 1958, remains a subject of fascination among numismatists.
While most of these pennies hold modest value, certain rare variants have fetched astonishing sums at auctions.
Notably, a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny was sold for an impressive $630,000, underscoring the potential treasures that might still be lurking in everyday pocket change.
A Brief History of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
Introduced in 1909 to commemorate President Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, the Lincoln Wheat Penny was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person.
Designed by Victor David Brenner, the obverse showcases Lincoln’s profile, while the reverse displays two wheat stalks, symbolizing prosperity. This design remained in circulation until 1958, after which it was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial design.
The 1943 Bronze Penny: A Wartime Rarity
During World War II, the U.S. Mint faced a copper shortage due to its necessity for wartime production. To conserve copper, pennies minted in 1943 were primarily made from zinc-coated steel, giving them a distinctive silver appearance.
However, a small number of pennies were mistakenly struck on leftover bronze planchets from 1942. These rare 1943 bronze pennies have become some of the most sought-after coins in American numismatics.
Identifying the Rare 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny
If you suspect you have a 1943 Wheat Penny, consider the following steps to determine if it’s the valuable bronze variant:
- Visual Inspection: A genuine 1943 bronze penny will have a coppery brown hue, unlike the common 1943 steel pennies, which appear silver-gray.
- Magnet Test: Steel pennies are magnetic, whereas bronze pennies are not. If your 1943 penny is attracted to a magnet, it’s made of steel; if not, it could be bronze.
- Weight Check: Bronze pennies weigh approximately 3.11 grams, while steel pennies are lighter, around 2.7 grams. Using a precise scale can help determine the composition.
- Professional Authentication: Given the prevalence of counterfeits, it’s advisable to have the coin authenticated by reputable services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).
Other Valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies
While the 1943 bronze penny is among the most valuable, other rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies have also commanded high prices:
| Year | Mint Mark | Variety | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909 | S | VDB | $100 – $1,000+ |
| 1914 | D | Standard Issue | $200 – $3,000+ |
| 1922 | No D | Plain (No Mint Mark) | $500 – $30,000+ |
| 1955 | None | Doubled Die Obverse | $1,000 – $15,000+ |
| 1944 | S | Steel (Error Coin) | $373,750 |
Values vary based on condition and rarity.
The Possibility of Finding One Today
Despite their rarity, valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies occasionally surface in everyday transactions. Searching through old piggy banks, coin rolls from banks, or even pocket change can yield unexpected treasures. Estate sales, garage sales, and antique shops are also potential sources for these hidden gems.
The allure of the Lincoln Wheat Penny lies not only in its historical significance but also in the thrill of discovering a rare variant still in circulation.
With some knowledge and keen observation, anyone might stumble upon a penny worth a small fortune. So, the next time you come across an old penny, take a closer look—it could be a valuable piece of history.
FAQs
Why are some 1943 pennies more valuable than others?
In 1943, most pennies were made from steel due to copper shortages during World War II. However, a few were mistakenly struck on bronze planchets, making them exceptionally rare and valuable.
How can I tell if my 1943 penny is valuable?
Check its appearance (bronze color vs. steel gray), test its magnetism (bronze is non-magnetic), and weigh it (bronze pennies are heavier). For confirmation, consult a professional grading service.
Are there other rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies to look out for?
Yes, pennies like the 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 No D, and the 1955 Doubled Die Obverse are also highly sought after by collectors.
