Can a simple penny really make you a millionaire? Yes—and it already has. In 2010, a 1943 copper penny sold at auction for $1.7 million. That’s right—a coin most people would ignore was actually a rare treasure.
But here’s the real kicker: this rare penny looks almost like a regular one. So, how can you tell if you have one? Let’s break it down in a simple way.
Why Is the 1943 Penny So Valuable?
Most pennies made in 1943 were not copper at all. During World War II, the U.S. needed copper for war supplies like bullets and wires. So, the U.S. Mint made pennies out of zinc-coated steel instead of copper.
But a few copper blanks (the metal discs used to make pennies) accidentally got left in the coin machines. These were then stamped with the 1943 date, creating the ultra-rare 1943 copper pennies.
Only about 20 to 40 of these coins are known to exist today, which makes them super rare and valuable.
What Does a 1943 Copper Penny Look Like?
Spotting a 1943 copper penny takes a sharp eye. Here’s what to look for:
- Color: Real 1943 copper pennies look reddish-brown, not silver or gray.
- Date: It should say “1943” on the front (also called the obverse).
- No Silver Shine: Most 1943 pennies are silver-colored steel. If yours is not magnetic and copper-colored, you may have a winner.
- Mint Mark: Check under the date for a tiny letter:
- No letter = Philadelphia Mint
- “D” = Denver Mint
- “S” = San Francisco Mint
Is It Steel or Copper?
Here’s a simple way to check if your 1943 penny might be copper:
| Test | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Magnet Test | Steel pennies stick to magnets. Copper ones do not. |
| Color Test | Steel is gray/silver. Copper is reddish-brown. |
| Weight Test | Copper pennies weigh 3.11 grams. Steel ones weigh 2.7 grams. Use a precise scale. |
If your penny passes all three, don’t get too excited yet—but you should definitely get it professionally tested.
Get It Graded: NGC or PCGS
If you think you have a 1943 copper penny, the next step is to send it to a coin grading company like NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) or PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service).
They will:
- Check for authenticity
- Confirm the material
- Grade the coin’s condition
A real 1943 copper penny in good shape can be worth hundreds of thousands—even millions if it’s in mint condition.
How to Spot a Real 1943 Copper Penny
| Feature | Real Copper Penny | Regular 1943 Steel Penny |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Reddish-brown | Silver-gray |
| Magnetic? | No | Yes |
| Weight | 3.11g | 2.7g |
| Mint Mark | P, D, or S | P, D, or S |
| Value | Up to $1.7 million | A few cents |
Real Sale: $1.7 Million in 2010
In 2010, a collector named Bob R. Simpson paid $1.7 million for a certified 1943 copper penny. It was graded MS63 Red by PCGS, which means it was in almost perfect condition and still had its original red color.
This isn’t just a myth—it’s public record. That sale proved these rare pennies are worth real money.
Watch Out for Fakes
Sadly, many people try to fake 1943 copper pennies. Some take regular 1948 pennies and file down the “8” to look like a “3.” Others plate steel pennies with copper.
Ways to spot a fake:
- If it sticks to a magnet, it’s not copper.
- Look closely at the date under a magnifying glass.
- Only trust coins graded by NGC or PCGS.
Should You Check Your Pocket Change?
Yes! It might sound crazy, but some people have found rare pennies in pocket change, old jars, or coin collections from grandparents.
The chance is small—but if you find a 1943 copper penny, it could change your life. Why not take a few minutes and check?
Conclusion
Who knew a single penny could be worth over a million dollars? The story of the 1943 copper penny is a great reminder that even small things can be incredibly valuable—if you know what to look for.
So, take out your old coin jar, check the dates, grab a magnet, and maybe—just maybe—you’ll be the next lucky person to find one.
FAQ’s
Q: Can I find a 1943 copper penny in circulation today?
A: It’s very unlikely, but not impossible. Check old coin jars or inherited collections.
Q: How can I tell if my 1943 penny is copper?
A: Use the magnet test, color test, and weight test. Then get it graded by NGC or PCGS.
Q: Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
A: No. Only the copper versions are rare. The common steel ones are worth a few cents
