The Lincoln Wheat Penny, minted between 1909 and 1958, is a cherished piece of American numismatic history.
While most of these pennies are valued at their face value of one cent, certain rare varieties have fetched astonishing prices at auctions.
Notably, a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent has been valued at $991,000, underscoring its exceptional rarity and desirability among collectors.
Understanding the Lincoln Wheat Penny
Designed by Victor David Brenner, the Lincoln Wheat Penny features President Abraham Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse and two stalks of wheat on the reverse, symbolizing prosperity and unity.
This design was in circulation until 1958, when it was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial design.
The 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent: A Rare Find
In 1943, due to copper shortages during World War II, the U.S. Mint produced pennies using zinc-coated steel.
However, a few copper planchets (blanks) were mistakenly used, resulting in the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent. Only a handful of these error coins exist, making them highly valuable.
Key Features of the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Weight | Approximately 3.11 grams |
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Mint Marks | Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), San Francisco (S) |
| Design | Obverse: Abraham Lincoln’s portrait; Reverse: Two stalks of wheat |
Valuation and Rarity
Due to their rarity, 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cents have commanded high prices at auctions. For instance, a 1943-D Bronze Cent from the Denver Mint sold for $840,000, and a 1943-S Bronze Cent from the San Francisco Mint fetched $504,000.
Identifying a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent
To determine if you have a 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent:
- Check the Date: Ensure the coin is dated 1943.
- Magnet Test: Place the coin near a magnet. If it sticks, it’s likely a steel cent; if it doesn’t, it could be bronze.
- Weight Measurement: Weigh the coin. A genuine 1943 bronze penny weighs about 3.11 grams.
Other Valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies
While the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent is the most famous, other rare varieties include:
- 1909-S VDB: Only 484,000 minted; features the designer’s initials.
- 1955 Double Die: Exhibits a noticeable doubling of the date and lettering.
- 1922 No D: Minted in Denver but lacks the mint mark.
Preservation and Authentication
Given their value, it’s crucial to handle rare pennies carefully:
- Storage: Use acid-free holders or capsules to prevent damage.
- Authentication: Consult professional grading services like the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) for accurate assessments.
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, particularly the 1943 Bronze variety, exemplifies the intersection of history and numismatics. While most of these pennies are of modest value, certain rare specimens continue to captivate collectors and can be worth substantial amounts.
FAQs
What makes the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent so valuable?
Its rarity stems from a minting error where a few copper planchets were mistakenly used instead of steel during World War II.
How can I tell if my 1943 penny is bronze or steel?
Perform a magnet test; if the coin doesn’t stick, it’s likely bronze. Additionally, a genuine 1943 bronze penny weighs about 3.11 grams.
Are there other valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies?
Yes, varieties like the 1909-S VDB, 1955 Double Die, and 1922 No D are also highly sought after by collectors.