$840000 1943 Penny: If you’ve ever found an old penny in your change and wondered if it’s worth more than a cent, you might be in for a surprise. A rare 1943 copper penny could be worth as much as $840,000! This coin is one of the most valuable errors in U.S. history, and collectors are willing to pay top dollar for an authentic one.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about the 1943 copper penny, how to spot one, and what makes it so valuable.
$840000 1943 Penny
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1943 Copper Penny |
| Estimated Value | Up to $840,000+ |
| Reason for Rarity | Minting error: Struck on leftover copper planchets |
| Composition | 95% Copper, 5% Zinc & Tin |
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
| How to Identify | Non-magnetic, proper weight, clear date |
| Where to Authenticate | PCGS, NGC, ANACS |
| Official Reference | United States Mint |
The 1943 copper penny is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in U.S. history, with some examples selling for up to $1.7 million. If you think you have one, perform the magnet test, weight check, and professional authentication to confirm its authenticity.
If you discover a genuine 1943 copper penny, you could be holding a fortune in your hands!
Why Is the 1943 Copper Penny So Valuable?
During World War II, copper was needed for ammunition and war supplies. To conserve this metal, the U.S. Mint switched to steel pennies coated with zinc. However, a few pennies were accidentally struck using leftover copper planchets from 1942, creating one of the rarest coins in U.S. history.
Because of this minting mistake, only about 15 to 40 genuine 1943 copper pennies are known to exist today, making them highly valuable to collectors.
How Much Is a 1943 Copper Penny Worth?
The value of a genuine 1943 copper penny depends on its condition and mint mark:
- 1943 (No Mint Mark – Philadelphia): Up to $250,000 – $840,000
- 1943-D (Denver Mint): Over $1.7 million
- 1943-S (San Francisco Mint): Around $500,000 – $750,000
In 2010, a Denver-minted 1943 copper penny sold for $1.7 million at a private auction!
How to Spot a 1943 Copper Penny (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Check If It’s Magnetic
One of the easiest ways to determine if you have a rare 1943 copper penny is to use a magnet:
If the coin sticks to the magnet, it’s a common 1943 steel penny (worth about 10-50 cents).
If it does not stick, you might have a real 1943 copper penny!
2. Weigh the Coin
Use a precision scale to check the weight:
- A genuine 1943 copper penny weighs 3.11 grams.
- A 1943 steel penny weighs 2.7 grams.
If your penny weighs 3.11 grams, you may have found a valuable rarity!
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3. Inspect the Date Closely
Some fake 1943 copper pennies are actually altered 1948 pennies where the “8” is filed down to look like a “3.” Use a magnifying glass to ensure the date is not altered.
4. Look for a Mint Mark
- A “D” (Denver Mint) or “S” (San Francisco Mint) mark below the date makes the coin even rarer.
- No mint mark means it was struck in Philadelphia.
5. Get Professional Authentication
If your coin passes the magnet and weight test, send it to a professional grading service like:
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation)
- ANACS (American Numismatic Association Certification Service)
They will verify its authenticity and assign it a grade, which affects its market value.
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Frequently Asked Questions About $840000 1943 Penny
1. How many 1943 copper pennies exist?
Experts estimate that 15 to 40 genuine 1943 copper pennies exist today.
2. What if I find a 1943 steel penny?
A 1943 steel penny is common and worth 10 to 50 cents in circulated condition. High-grade ones can be worth $10 to $100.
3. Can I clean my coin to make it more valuable?
No! Cleaning a rare coin can significantly reduce its value. Leave it as-is and get it authenticated professionally.
4. Where can I sell a 1943 copper penny?
You can sell it through:
- Major auction houses (Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers)
- Online coin marketplaces (eBay, PCGS)
- Reputable coin dealers
5. Are there fake 1943 copper pennies?
Yes, many fakes exist. Always check for weight, magnetism, and authenticity grading before assuming it’s real.
