The $1.7 Million 1943 Penny: How to Identify This Rare Copper Treasure
At Pennyverse.info, we’ve tracked the most valuable pennies in existence – including the legendary 1943 copper penny that sold for $1.7 million. Watch our exclusive video analysis and learn how to spot this rare coin in your collection.
Why the 1943 Copper Penny Is So Valuable
The Wartime Coinage Error
- Historical context: 1943 pennies should be steel (wartime conservation)
- Rarity: Only 10-15 confirmed specimens exist
- Record sale: $1.7 million (2010, PCGS-certified MS-63)
How to Identify a Genuine 1943 Copper Penny
3 Critical Identification Steps
- Magnetic Test
- Steel pennies: Will stick to magnet
- Copper pennies: Will not stick
- Weight Verification
Steel: 2.7 grams
Copper: 3.11 grams - Visual Inspection
- Copper color (not silver-gray)
- No signs of plating or alteration
Grading & Value Breakdown
| Grade | Value Range |
|---|---|
| AG-3 | $100,000+ |
| MS-60 | $500,000+ |
| MS-63 | 1,000,000−1,000,000−1,700,000 |
Where These Rare Pennies Are Found
- Old coin collections (often unrecognized)
- Bank storage vaults (unsearched rolls)
- Estate sales (misidentified as steel pennies)
What To Do If You Find One
- Handle carefully with cotton gloves
- Store in protective holder
- Get PCGS/NGC certified immediately
- Insure before transport
Critical Warning:
Never clean the coin – this destroys its authenticity and value!
Join the Million-Dollar Penny Hunt!
Your Action Plan:
- Check all 1943 pennies tonight
- Use our magnet and weight tests
- Watch our video for visual identification
Question for You:
“Would you rather find one $1.7M penny or 100 gold coins?”
Debate at Pennyverse.info!
Why This Matters
This penny represents one of the most famous mint errors in history. At Pennyverse.info, we help collectors identify these life-changing discoveries.
Think you found a 1943 copper penny? Get expert evaluation before making any decisions!
