At PennyVerse.info, we’ve uncovered stories of some of the most valuable pennies ever struck—but few are as iconic or sought after as the legendary 1943 copper Lincoln penny. One of these rare coins sold for a jaw-dropping $1.7 million, and yours might be sitting unnoticed in a jar, drawer, or old coin collection.
▶ Watch Now: [The $1.7 Million Penny – Full Video Analysis]
🪙 Why the 1943 Copper Penny Is So Valuable
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to zinc-coated steel to preserve copper for the war effort. All 1943 pennies were supposed to be made of steel—but a few copper blanks (planchets) were mistakenly left in the presses. The result? A small number of genuine 1943 copper pennies, now worth hundreds of thousands to over $1 million.
📌 Key Facts:
- Year: 1943
- Metal: Copper (not steel)
- Known Specimens: Only 10 to 15 confirmed
- Record Price: $1.7 million (Sold in 2010, PCGS MS-63)
🔍 How to Identify a Genuine 1943 Copper Penny
Think you’ve found one? Follow these three quick tests:
1️⃣ Magnetic Test
- Steel penny? It sticks to a magnet.
- Copper penny? It won’t stick at all.
2️⃣ Weight Check
- Steel penny = ~2.7 grams
- Copper penny = ~3.11 grams
Use a precision digital scale to be sure.
3️⃣ Visual Inspection
- Look for the distinct copper color (not silver-gray)
- Check for signs of re-plating—altered coins have no value
- Genuine copper 1943s have a natural tone and even wear
💎 Value by Grade
| Coin Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| AG-3 (heavily worn) | $100,000+ |
| MS-60 (Uncirculated) | $500,000+ |
| MS-63 (Certified Mint State) | $1,000,000–$1,700,000 |
🏠 Where These Rare Pennies Are Found
You don’t need to be a dealer to strike it rich. Some of these copper treasures were discovered in:
- Old coin collections (misidentified as steel)
- Unsearched bank rolls from the 1940s
- Estate sales and garage finds
✅ What To Do If You Think You Have One
- Handle it carefully – Use cotton gloves to avoid damage
- Don’t clean it – Even wiping can destroy its value
- Place in a hard plastic holder – Avoid PVC flips
- Send for authentication – Contact PCGS or NGC immediately
- Insure it before transporting or shipping
⚠️ Important Warning
Never clean or alter your coin—this could cut the value by 90% or more, or even make it unsellable. Always consult a professional before taking any action.
🎯 Join the Million-Dollar Penny Hunt
Here’s your action plan tonight:
- Check every 1943 penny in your possession
- Use a magnet and scale for quick verification
- Compare with our video visual guide
- Visit PennyVerse.info for expert evaluation options
💬 Collector’s Question:
Would you rather find one $1.7M copper penny—or 100 solid gold coins?
👉 Join the debate at PennyVerse.info and share your discovery stories.
This penny isn’t just a mint error—it’s one of the most legendary numismatic discoveries in U.S. history. At PennyVerse, we help collectors like you spot life-changing coins hiding in plain sight.
Ready to hunt for yours?
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