Introduction: The 1943-S Lincoln Wheat Cent Penny is a rare find that excites many coin collectors. Most pennies from 1943 were made from steel because copper was needed for World War II efforts. However, a few 1943 pennies from the San Francisco Mint (marked with an “S”) were mistakenly made from bronze/copper. These rare coins are valuable because they were not supposed to be made that way. Let’s explore the history, identification, and value of this special coin.
Why Was the 1943-S Penny Made of Steel Instead of Copper?
In 1943, the United States was in the middle of World War II, and copper was needed for military supplies like ammunition and communications equipment. To save copper, the U.S. Mint switched to using steel for pennies that year. Most pennies from 1943 are silver-colored because they are made of steel, but a few leftover bronze/copper planchets accidentally got used, making the 1943-S bronze/copper pennies rare.
What Makes the 1943-S Bronze/Copper Penny Rare?
- Accidental Production: The 1943-S bronze/copper penny wasn’t supposed to be produced. A few bronze planchets were left over from 1942 and got used by mistake.
- Very Few Coins: Only a few of these pennies exist, making them incredibly rare.
- High Collector Demand: Because these coins are so hard to find, they are in high demand among collectors, which increases their value.
How to Identify a 1943-S Bronze/Copper Penny
Here are some ways to check if your 1943-S penny is made of bronze/copper:
- Color: The bronze/copper penny has a brownish or reddish tone, unlike the steel pennies, which are silver-colored.
- Weight: A genuine 1943-S bronze/copper penny weighs about 3.11 grams, while a steel penny weighs around 2.7 grams.
- Magnet Test: Bronze/copper pennies are not magnetic, while steel pennies will stick to a magnet.
- Mint Mark: The “S” under the date “1943” means it was minted in San Francisco.
What is the Value of a 1943-S Bronze/Copper Penny?
The value of a 1943-S bronze/copper penny can vary based on its condition and demand. Here’s a table showing its estimated value:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G) | $75,000 – $150,000 |
| Very Fine (VF) | $150,000 – $200,000 |
| Extremely Fine (XF) | $200,000 – $300,000 |
| Mint State (MS) | $300,000 – $1,000,000+ |
Note: These values can change depending on the coin market and collector interest.
Why Is This Coin So Valuable?
- Unique Error: The accidental use of bronze/copper planchets in 1943 makes these coins a unique part of U.S. history.
- Rarity: There are very few of these coins, which makes them rare and valuable to collectors.
- Collector Demand: Coin collectors love coins with interesting stories, and the 1943-S bronze/copper penny is among the rarest. This high demand leads to high auction prices.
Conclusion
The 1943-S Lincoln Wheat Cent made of bronze/copper is a true treasure for coin enthusiasts. Its rarity and the story behind its creation make it highly valuable. If you come across a penny like this, it’s important to have it checked by a professional coin appraiser. With its limited number and unique backstory, owning a 1943-S bronze/copper penny is like holding a piece of history that could be worth a fortune.
FAQ’s
Q1: How can I tell if my 1943-S penny is bronze/copper?
A1: Look for a brownish or reddish color and use a magnet to check if it sticks. If it doesn’t, it might be bronze/copper.
Q2: Why were most 1943 pennies made of steel?
A2: The U.S. Mint used steel for pennies in 1943 to save copper for the war effort.
Q3: How many 1943-S bronze/copper pennies are there?
A3: Only a few of these coins are known to exist, making them extremely rare.
Q4: What should I do if I find a 1943-S bronze/copper penny?
A4: If you think you have one, get it authenticated by a professional coin grader to confirm its authenticity and value.
Q5: Where can I sell a 1943-S bronze/copper penny?
A5: You can sell it through coin dealers, auctions, or online platforms that specialize in rare coins.