The 1943 wheat penny is one of the most famous error coins in U.S. numismatic history. This penny was accidentally minted in copper instead of the steel planchets that were supposed to be used that year due to World War II conservation efforts. As a result, the 1943 copper penny is quite rare and valuable for collectors today.
Background on the 1943 Wheat Penny
The wheat penny was issued by the U.S. Mint from 1909 to 1958. It got its name from the depiction of two stalks of wheat featured on the reverse side of the coin. The obverse featured a profile bust of President Abraham Lincoln.
In 1943, the composition of the wheat penny was changed from a bronze alloy (95% copper, 5% zinc and tin) to zinc-coated steel due to copper conservation for the war effort. However, a small number of 1943 cents were mistakenly struck on leftover bronze planchets at the Denver Mint before the switch was made. These rare copper examples are known as 1943 copper pennies.
Mintages of the 1943 Wheat Penny
The reported mintages for the different 1943 wheat penny types are:
- 1943 steel cents – Over 1 billion coins minted
- 1943-D copper cents – Around 20 known specimens
- 1943-S copper cents – Around 12-15 known specimens
As you can see, the steel 1943 cents were mass produced while the copper versions are extraordinarily scarce.
Value of a 1943 Copper Wheat Penny
Due to its rarity, a 1943 copper wheat penny is very valuable for collectors. Let’s take a look at some example values:
Mint State Grades
In pristine, uncirculated condition, a 1943 copper cent can fetch huge premiums. Some recent sales include:
- MS63 graded 1943-D copper cent – $82,500 in 2010
- MS64 graded 1943-D copper cent – $126,500 in 2008
- MS65 graded 1943-D copper cent – $217,000 in 2019
For MS64 and better condition coins, valuations easily climb into the 6-figures.
Circulated Grades
Even in well-worn condition, 1943 copper cents carry large premiums. Some recent sales in circulated grades include:
- VG8 graded 1943-D copper cent – $60,000 in 2015
- F12 graded 1943-S copper cent – $114,000 in 2019
- VF20 graded 1943-D copper cent – $140,000 in 2018
As you can see, worn 1943 copper wheat pennies are usually worth tens of thousands at minimum, even in heavily circulated condition.
Authentication
Since a 1943 copper cent in top condition can be worth over $100,000, authentication is highly recommended from a reputable coin grading service such as PCGS, NGC or ANACS. This will confirm that the coin is genuine and not a counterfeit or altered date piece. Grading will also verify the condition and minting quality.
Finding a 1943 Copper Wheat Penny
Very few 1943 copper cents are discovered in circulation today. Many were likely retrieved shortly after being struck and never entered circulation. Of those that did circulate, most were probably picked out of change over the decades by attentive collectors and enthusiasts. Nonetheless, it’s always wise to check your wheat pennies just in case!
Realistically, most collectors will need to purchase a 1943 copper cent from a reputable dealer, auction house, or collector. Be prepared to pay at minimum $50,000 and upwards for authentic specimens.
The 1944 Steel Wheat Penny
Another well-known wheat penny error is the 1944 steel cent. Like 1943 copper cents, these were created by an incorrect planchet mix at the Mint. Some key points on 1944 steel wheat pennies:
- Made from steel instead of copper like normal 1944 wheat cents
- Fewer than 20 examples confirmed to exist
- Can be worth $100,000+ in high grades
- Authenticity needs to be verified by a professional grading service
While not as universally famous as the 1943 copper error, the 1944 steel penny is also a significant 20th century U.S. coin error.
Conclusion
In summary, the 1943 copper wheat penny is an extremely valuable coin due to its status as a rare mint error. Even in worn condition, authentic specimens are worth at minimum $50,000 to collectors today. Uncirculated examples can fetch six-figure prices at auction. If you happen to find a 1943 copper cent in your change or collection, be sure to get it authenticated and graded by a reputable coin expert. This fascinating error coin will always have a place of distinction in American numismatic history.