Ever wonder if your spare change might be hiding a secret treasure? It might sound unbelievable, but some ordinary-looking pennies are worth thousands of dollars. One special penny, in particular, has grabbed headlines for being worth up to $85,000! If you have a penny jar, now is the perfect time to take a closer look.
This article will help you understand what makes this penny so rare, how to spot it, and why collectors are willing to pay a fortune for it.
What Makes a Penny Worth $85,000?
Most pennies are made from copper or copper-plated zinc and are worth just one cent. But certain error coins—coins that were made with mistakes—can become extremely valuable. The penny that could be worth up to $85,000 is one of those rare error coins.
This penny is known as the 1943 copper penny. In 1943, the U.S. Mint switched to making pennies out of steel coated with zinc to save copper for World War II. But a few pennies were mistakenly struck using leftover copper planchets (blanks) from 1942. These rare copper 1943 pennies look like regular pennies—but they’re actually a huge collector’s item.
How Rare Is the 1943 Copper Penny?
The 1943 copper penny is one of the rarest coins ever made by the U.S. Mint. Experts believe that fewer than 20 of these coins exist today. They were made by accident at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mints. That means if you spot one, you could be holding one of the rarest U.S. coins in history.
Even though millions of steel pennies were made in 1943, only a handful of copper ones slipped through. That’s what makes them extremely valuable to collectors. In top condition, these coins have sold for as much as $85,000 or more at auction!
How to Spot a 1943 Copper Penny
So how can you tell if your 1943 penny is the rare copper version? Here’s what to look for:
- Check the date: The coin must say 1943.
- Test with a magnet: Steel pennies from 1943 are magnetic. If your 1943 penny doesn’t stick to a magnet, it might be made of copper.
- Look at the color: Copper pennies have a brown or reddish tone, while steel pennies are gray and shiny.
- Weigh the coin: Copper pennies weigh about 3.11 grams, while steel ones are lighter, around 2.7 grams. A coin scale can help.
- Mint mark: Look under the date for a small letter:
- No letter = Philadelphia Mint
- D = Denver Mint
- S = San Francisco Mint
If you think you’ve found a copper 1943 penny, don’t clean it—cleaning can reduce its value. Take it to a coin dealer or submit it to NGC or PCGS for grading and authentication.
Other Rare Pennies Worth Money
The 1943 copper penny isn’t the only rare one out there. Here are a few more to watch for:
| Year | Type of Error or Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | Rare mint mark & initials | $700+ |
| 1955 Double Die | Doubled lettering | $1,000–$15,000 |
| 1983 Double Die Reverse | Doubled letters on reverse | $250–$1,500 |
| 1992 Close AM | “AM” letters are close together | $1,000–$3,000 |
| 1969-S Double Die | Clear doubling on front | $10,000–$75,000 |
Why Do Collectors Pay So Much?
Coin collectors, also called numismatists, look for rare coins to complete their collections. When a coin is both rare and in great condition, its value can skyrocket. The 1943 copper penny is famous not only for its rarity but also for its history and mistake.
Coins like this become the “holy grail” for collectors. Because only a few exist, the competition to own one drives prices up. Some collectors are even willing to spend tens of thousands—or more—for the chance to own such a unique piece of history.
Conclusion
Before you toss your pocket change aside, take a second look—you might have a fortune hiding in plain sight. The 1943 copper penny is a rare and valuable mistake that’s worth up to $85,000 if you’re lucky enough to find one. Always check your coins, especially if they look old or unusual.
And if you think you’ve found a rare coin, get it checked by a professional. Who knows? That little penny in your hand might just change your life.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I find a 1943 copper penny in circulation today?
A: It’s very rare, but possible. Always check your pennies carefully!
Q2: How can I get my penny appraised?
A: Contact a local coin dealer or send it to grading services like NGC or PCGS.
Q3: Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
A: Most are made of steel and only worth a few cents. But if yours is copper, it could be worth thousands.
