Imagine finding a penny in your pocket that’s worth more than a brand-new sports car. That’s exactly the case with the 1943-S Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny.
Thanks to a rare minting error during World War II, this coin has become one of the most legendary and valuable error coins in American history. Here’s why collectors go wild over this one-of-a-kind penny.
Error
In 1943, the U.S. Mint made a big change. With copper in high demand for the war effort, pennies were struck using zinc-coated steel instead. But by mistake, a few bronze planchets—the copper-alloy blanks used the previous year—were left in the presses.
That’s how a small number of 1943 pennies ended up being struck on bronze instead of steel. The result? A handful of rare coins that look nothing like the shiny steel versions most people know.
Rarity
The 1943-S Bronze Wheat Penny is one of the rarest error coins in U.S. history. The “S” mint mark stands for the San Francisco Mint, where only a few of these bronze errors were ever made. It’s believed that fewer than 10 examples exist, and most are now locked away in private collections.
Finding one of these coins today is like observing buried treasure. It’s not just the metal that makes it valuable—it’s the fact that this mistake should have never happened.
Value
So, how much is this penny actually worth? In 2023, a 1943-S Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny graded MS-62 by PCGS (Mint State 62) sold at auction for an incredible $282,000.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Coin Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Year | 1943 |
| Mint Mark | S (San Francisco) |
| Metal | Bronze (not intended for 1943) |
| Grade | MS-62 (Mint State) |
| Auction Sale Price (2023) | $282,000 |
That’s more than most homes or luxury cars cost—and it all came from a one-cent piece struck in error.
Demand
Collectors love this coin not just for its value but for its backstory. The fact that it was minted during World War II gives it historical weight, and the rarity makes it a holy grail for coin hunters. When one appears at auction, it grabs attention fast and usually ends up selling for six figures—or more.
Tips
If you’re ever going through old coin jars or inherited a collection, here’s what to look for:
- Check the date: Is it 1943?
- Look for the mint mark: Does it have an “S” below the date?
- Test the magnet: Steel pennies stick, bronze ones don’t.
- Get it graded: Only a certified grading company like PCGS or NGC can confirm authenticity and assign a value.
The 1943-S Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny is the kind of coin that gets collectors dreaming. It’s rare, it’s beautiful, and it’s got a story straight out of American history.
Whether you’re a hardcore collector or just someone with a lucky find, this is one penny that could make you rich overnight.
FAQs
Why is the 1943-S penny rare?
It was accidentally struck on bronze instead of steel.
How much is it worth?
One sold for $282,000 at auction in 2023.
What does the ‘S’ mean?
It means the coin was minted in San Francisco.
How many exist?
Only a few 1943-S bronze pennies are known to exist.
How can I check mine?
Use a magnet and get it certified by PCGS or NGC.
