1943 Copper Penny

1943 • United States • 1¢

About This Coin

One of the most famous mint errors - a bronze penny struck on a copper planchet when all 1943 pennies should have been steel. Only about 40 are known to exist. Several have sold for over $100,000.

Specifications

Composition

95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc

Weight

3.11 grams

Diameter

19 mm

Edge

Plain

Designer

Victor D. Brenner

Mintage

~40 known (error)

Estimated Values by Condition

Condition	Estimated Value
Poor (P)	$60,000-100,000
Good (G)	$100,000-150,000
Fine (F)	$150,000-200,000
Very Fine (VF)	$200,000-300,000
Extremely Fine (EF/XF)	$300,000-500,000
Uncirculated (MS)	$500,000-1,700,000+

* Values are estimates based on market data and may vary significantly based on specific condition, mint mark, and market demand.

Identification Tips

Use a magnet - genuine 1943 steel pennies are magnetic, copper pennies are NOT. Check the weight: 3.11g for copper vs 2.7g for steel. The color should be bronze/brown, not silver-gray. Beware of fakes: altered date 1948 pennies or copper-plated 1943 steel cents. Authentication by PCGS/NGC is essential before purchase.

Historical Context

In 1943, copper was needed for WWII ammunition, so the U.S. Mint switched to zinc-coated steel pennies. However, a few bronze planchets from 1942 remained in the presses and were struck with 1943 dies. The error wasn't discovered until the late 1940s. About 40 are confirmed: 12 from Philadelphia, ~5 from Denver, ~5 from San Francisco. One sold for $1.7 million in 2010.

Notable Varieties

1943 (no mint mark) - Philadelphia
1943-D Denver
1943-S San Francisco

Frequently Asked Questions

How many 1943 copper pennies exist?

Approximately 40 are confirmed: about 12 from Philadelphia (no mint mark), 5-6 from Denver (D), and 5-6 from San Francisco (S). More may exist in circulation or collections, but these numbers are based on authenticated examples.

How do I test if my 1943 penny is copper?

Use a magnet: copper is non-magnetic, steel is magnetic. Check weight: 3.11g (copper) vs 2.7g (steel). Look at color: bronze vs silver-gray. Many "1943 copper pennies" are actually altered 1948 cents or copper-plated steel. Get it authenticated by PCGS or NGC before celebrating!