Imagine finding a simple penny in your pocket that turns out to be worth $83 million. It’s not a fantasy—it’s the astonishing truth behind one of the most valuable coins in U.S. history: the 1943 Copper Lincoln Wheat Penny. While most pennies from that year were made of steel due to World War II, a few were mistakenly struck in copper—and they’re now worth a fortune.
Why This Penny Is Worth Millions
In 1943, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to steel to conserve metal for the war. However, a small number of copper blanks accidentally got used, resulting in one of the rarest coin errors ever made.
Only around 20 authentic 1943 copper pennies are known to exist, and collectors are willing to pay top dollar. In fact, one example sold for $1.7 million in 2010. Today, experts estimate a pristine coin could fetch up to $83 million at auction.
How to Know If You Have the $83 Million Penny
Here’s a quick guide to identifying a potential treasure in your change:
| Test | Copper Penny | Steel Penny |
|---|---|---|
| Magnet Test | Does not stick | Sticks to magnet |
| Weight | 3.11 grams | 2.7 grams |
| Color | Reddish-brown | Grayish-silver |
| Design | Lincoln Wheat back | Same |
- Check the date – It must say 1943.
- Do the magnet test – Steel sticks, copper doesn’t.
- Weigh it – Use a digital scale. Copper pennies are heavier.
- Don’t clean it – Cleaning ruins its value. Let the pros handle it.
🏠 Where These Pennies Have Been Found
People have discovered these valuable pennies in:
- Inherited coin collections
- Old piggy banks
- Garage sales
- Pocket change
- School lunch money (yes, it’s happened!)
A teenager even found one in 1947 while paying for lunch—proof that these treasures still surface in the most unexpected places.
Why Collectors Are Going Crazy for It
The 1943 copper penny is more than a rare error—it’s a piece of wartime history. With only a few known to exist, it’s one of the most sought-after coins in the numismatic world. Bidding wars at auction houses are intense, and coin investors dream of adding it to their collection.
Its historical significance and extreme rarity make it the holy grail of U.S. coins.
What to Do If You Think You Have One
- Handle with care – Use gloves or a soft cloth.
- Get expert help – Contact trusted services like PCGS or NGC.
- Beware of fakes – Many try to pass off altered steel pennies as copper.
Even if it turns out to be a rare steel version in mint condition, you could still earn a few hundred dollars.
Final Thought: A Penny That Could Change Your Life
This isn’t just another old coin—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The 1943 Lincoln Copper Penny continues to amaze collectors and investors, proving that big money can come from the smallest places.
So take a look through your change jar, check that old coin box, or ask your grandparents about their coin stash. You might just discover the $83 million penny hiding in plain sight.