At Pennyverse.info, we specialize in uncovering the fascinating stories behind America’s most historic coins. Today, we examine the unique 1943 steel penny – a coin born from wartime necessity that still captures collectors’ imaginations 80 years later.
Why the 1943 Steel Penny Exists
America’s Wartime Coinage Crisis
- Copper shortage: WWII required copper for shell casings and radio equipment
- Temporary solution: Zinc-coated steel planchets (1-year only)
- Production numbers:
- Philadelphia: 684,628,670
- Denver: 217,660,000
- San Francisco: 191,550,000
Identifying Authentic 1943 Steel Pennies
Key Characteristics
✔ Magnetic (sticks to magnets)
✔ Silver-gray appearance
✔ Weight: 2.7 grams (vs. 3.11g for copper pennies)
✔ Edge: Plain (no copper sandwich visible)
Mint Mark Locations
- No mintmark: Philadelphia
- “D”: Denver
- “S”: San Francisco
1943 Steel Penny Values
| Condition | Philadelphia | Denver | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circulated | 0.10−0.10−0.50 | 0.15−0.15−1 | 0.20−0.20−2 |
| Uncirculated | 1−1−5 | 2−2−10 | 3−3−15 |
| MS-67+ | 50−50−200 | 75−75−300 | 100−100−500 |
The Famous 1943 Copper Penny Error
Why It’s So Valuable
- Accidental copper strikes: Estimated 10-15 exist
- Record sale: $1.7 million (2010)
- Identification:
- Weighs 3.11g (not 2.7g)
- Non-magnetic
- Reddish-brown color
Collecting Tips
Building a Complete Set
- Three-mint collection: P, D, and S versions
- Condition matters: Look for original luster
- Error varieties:
- Double dies
- Repunched mintmarks
- Off-center strikes
Preservation Advice
- Store properly: Avoid PVC flips
- Handle carefully: Steel corrodes easier than copper
- Climate control: Prevent rust with silica gel
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all 1943 pennies valuable?
A: Only the copper versions. Most steel pennies are common.
Q: How can I test if mine is copper?
A: Use a magnet (won’t stick) and weigh it (3.11g).
Q: Why do some look rusty?
A: The zinc coating wears off, exposing steel to oxidation.
Where to Buy/Sell 1943 Pennies
✅ Reputable dealers (PCGS/NGC authorized)
✅ Coin shows (examine in person)
✅ Certified auctions (Heritage, GreatCollections)
🚫 Avoid:
- Uncertified “rare” claims on eBay
- Pawn shops
- Social media “deals”
The Historical Significance
These coins represent:
- American homefront sacrifice during WWII
- The mint’s problem-solving ingenuity
- A one-year-only composition experiment
Want to learn more about wartime coinage? Explore our WWII coin series
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