In a remarkable turn of events, a rare 1943 bronze Lincoln cent was discovered inside an old coffee can, astonishing coin collectors and enthusiasts alike.
This extraordinary find, originating from the San Francisco Mint, later fetched an impressive $504,000 at a Heritage Auction, underscoring the immense value of such numismatic rarities.
The 1943 Bronze Penny: A Wartime Anomaly
During World War II, the U.S. Mint transitioned from using copper to zinc-coated steel for penny production to conserve copper for the war effort.
However, a few bronze planchets (coin blanks) from 1942 inadvertently remained in the minting presses, leading to the creation of a limited number of 1943 bronze pennies. These coins are exceptionally rare and highly sought after by collectors.
Discovery in an Old Coffee Can
The recently auctioned 1943 bronze penny was discovered in an unassuming old coffee can, a testament to the adage that treasures can be found in the most unexpected places.
The coin, preserved for decades, was eventually authenticated and graded as MS63 Brown by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), with a Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC) approval, indicating its superior quality.
Auction Highlights
The coin’s rarity and condition made it a highlight of the Heritage Auction, where it achieved a staggering $504,000 sale price. This sale underscores the significant value that such rare coins can command in the numismatic market.
Understanding the Rarity
The 1943 bronze penny is rare due to the following factors:
- Minting Error: Accidental use of bronze planchets during a year when pennies were intended to be made from steel.
- Limited Quantity: Only a few such coins are known to exist, making them highly coveted.
- Historical Significance: Represents a unique period in U.S. history where resource conservation impacted coin production.
Identifying a Genuine 1943 Bronze Penny
To determine if a 1943 penny is a rare bronze version:
- Magnet Test: Bronze is non-magnetic, whereas steel pennies will stick to a magnet.
- Weight Check: A genuine bronze penny weighs approximately 3.11 grams, compared to 2.7 grams for steel pennies.
- Color Examination: Bronze pennies have a distinctive reddish-brown hue, unlike the grayish appearance of steel pennies.
- Professional Authentication: Consult reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC for verification.
Comparative Table of Notable 1943 Bronze Penny Sales
| Year Sold | Mint Mark | Grade | Sale Price | Auction House | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | S | MS63 BN | $504,000 | Heritage Auctions | Finest known example |
| 2010 | D | AU58 | $1,700,000 | Heritage Auctions | Only known Denver Mint example |
| 2025 | S | AU53 | $204,000 | FUN Auction | Discovered by 14-year-old in 1944 |
The discovery of a 1943 bronze penny in an old coffee can serves as a captivating reminder of the hidden treasures that may reside in everyday items.
This rare coin’s substantial auction price reflects its historical significance and the enduring allure of numismatic collectibles. Collectors and enthusiasts are encouraged to remain vigilant, as similar rarities may still be awaiting discovery.
FAQs
How many 1943 bronze pennies are known to exist?
Approximately 15 to 20 from the Philadelphia Mint, 6 from the San Francisco Mint, and 1 from the Denver Mint are known.
Why were some 1943 pennies made of bronze instead of steel?
The use of bronze planchets in 1943 was due to leftover blanks from 1942 that were inadvertently used during the minting process.
How can I verify if my 1943 penny is a rare bronze version?
Conduct a magnet test (bronze is non-magnetic), check the weight (should be around 3.11 grams), and seek professional authentication from services like PCGS or NGC.