A seemingly ordinary penny, tucked away in a long-forgotten military footlocker, has stunned collectors by selling for a staggering $150,000.
This 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny, one of the rarest coins in U.S. history, resurfaced recently and quickly became the center of the numismatic world’s attention. Here’s the full story behind this extraordinary discovery.
The Unbelievable Discovery
During a home cleanout, the family of a late World War II veteran uncovered a military footlocker in their attic. Among letters, medals, and service records was a small pouch of coins.
What looked like an everyday Lincoln penny turned out to be an ultra-rare 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny, an error coin few people ever get to see, let alone own.
This one, preserved in excellent condition, would go on to be authenticated, graded, and ultimately auctioned off for six figures.
Why the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny Is So Rare
In 1943, the U.S. Mint made a major change: to conserve copper for the war effort, they produced pennies using zinc-coated steel. However, a few leftover bronze planchets (blanks used in 1942) accidentally got mixed in with the new steel ones at various mints.
These bronze pennies were struck in extremely limited numbers, making them one of the most sought-after error coins in American history.
Key Features of the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | 95% copper, 5% tin & zinc (bronze) |
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Mints Involved | Philadelphia, San Francisco, Denver |
| Estimated Minted | Fewer than 20 |
| Auction Value | Ranges from $150,000 to over $1 million |
| Visual Clue | Will not stick to a magnet |
Authentication and Auction
Experts confirmed the coin’s authenticity using a multi-step process that included weight testing, X-ray fluorescence, and visual inspection. The penny was graded AU50 (About Uncirculated) by a top-tier grading company, confirming both its legitimacy and quality.
Collectors across the country participated in the high-stakes bidding war. The winning bid reached $150,000, a price that reflects both rarity and historical significance.
Notable Sales of 1943 Bronze Lincoln Pennies
| Year | Mint | Grade | Auction Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | D | MS64 | $1,750,000 |
| 2019 | S | MS63 | $504,000 |
| 2023 | P | AU50 | $150,000 |
What to Look for in Your Own Pocket Change
If you come across a 1943 penny, the first thing to do is use a magnet. The standard 1943 penny is steel and will stick to a magnet. If yours doesn’t, it may be bronze—and that’s a potential jackpot.
Other tests include checking the weight (bronze pennies weigh more) and examining the coin’s color and sheen. Still unsure? A professional appraisal can offer clarity.
The recent auction of a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny discovered in a military footlocker has once again shown how everyday items can hold extraordinary value.
Beyond just monetary worth, coins like this serve as historical artifacts that tell stories of wartime America, manufacturing shifts, and human error that led to numismatic treasures.
If you ever stumble across a jar of coins, don’t overlook that old penny—it could be your ticket to an unexpected fortune.
FAQs
How can I tell if my 1943 penny is bronze and not steel?
A genuine 1943 bronze lincoln penny will not stick to a magnet and should weigh around 3.11 grams.
What makes this penny worth $150,000?
It’s a rare minting error from wartime America, with fewer than 20 known examples. Scarcity and demand drive the value.
Where can I get my old coins checked?
You can consult a certified coin dealer or send it to a professional coin grading service for authentication.