Imagine finding a penny worth more than $85,000! It sounds unbelievable, but one specific penny from 1943 could make it a reality. This rare penny has been causing quite a buzz lately, with news sources like Coin Trackers, the New York Post, KHOU, and Daily Mail UK all talking about its value.
Back in 1943, during World War II, copper was a crucial resource for making ammunition and military equipment, so pennies that year were made from steel and coated with zinc to prevent rust. According to Coin Week, “Because copper was needed for purposes relating to World War II, all 1943 cents were planned to be struck on zinc-coated steel planchets.”
However, a few copper blanks somehow slipped through, and these accidental “copper wheat pennies” are now worth a small fortune.
If you’re lucky enough to find one of these in mint condition, you could earn as much as $85,000! Coin Trackers reports that even pennies in slightly worn condition are going for around $60,000. These coins aren’t just valuable – they’re a collector’s dream.
Saul Teichman, an expert on U.S. Mint errors, explains what makes these pennies so appealing to collectors. “1943 copper cents have a special cachet with collectors.
As for market value, the 1943 cents sell for much more than other errors struck around the same time.” He adds that while other errors from the World War II period might actually be rarer, none hold the same unique appeal as the 1943 copper penny.
With all the excitement around these coins, though, there’s been an increase in counterfeit versions hitting the market. Coin Trackers warns collectors to be careful, as some scammers file down the number 8 on a 1948 copper penny to make it look like a 1943, while others coat regular steel pennies with copper.
To check if your penny is the real deal, there’s a simple trick: use a magnet. As Daily Mail UK explains, “A solid copper penny will not stick to a magnet, while a steel penny with copper plating will.” It’s an easy way to find out if your penny is a genuine copper treasure or just a clever fake.
So, if you have a collection of old pennies, now is the time to take a closer look. Who knows? You might be holding a piece of history worth thousands of dollars! And don’t keep this a secret – share it with friends and family. One of them might have a hidden fortune in their piggy bank!
What do you think? Could you have a lucky penny worth thousands? Let us know in the comments!
