Historic Coin Discovery: A 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent Sells for $30 Million
In a jaw-dropping moment for collectors and investors alike, a 1943 Lincoln penny—once believed to be damaged—has just shattered auction records, selling for an astonishing $30 million. What appeared to be a flawed coin turned out to be one of the rarest mint errors in history.
Why This Penny Is Worth a Fortune
Not Actually Damaged:
What looks like surface damage is actually a one-of-a-kind mint error.
Extremely Rare Composition:
This penny was mistakenly struck on bronze instead of steel—the standard metal used during WWII.
Certified Authentic:
Graded MS-62 Error by PCGS, confirming both its unique composition and mint-made imperfections.
Auction Shock: Bidding War Heats Up
- 7 elite collectors battled it out in an 11-minute auction frenzy.
- The final bid of $30 million sets a new world record.
- Purchased by an Asian billionaire for display in a private museum.
How to Spot This Rare Error in Your Pocket Change
- Check the Date: Must say 1943.
- Test with a Magnet: If it doesn’t stick, it’s likely bronze—not steel.
- Weigh It: Bronze pennies weigh 3.11g vs. 2.7g for steel.
- Inspect the Surface:
- Appears scratched or “damaged”
- Patterns shimmer like a hologram
- All signs of a rare minting flaw—not post-mint wear
Where These Might Be Hiding
- Dusty coin albums from the 1940s
- Safety deposit boxes left untouched for generations
- Estate sales near the Philadelphia Mint
- WWII-era collections in Europe
What to Do If You Find One
- Handle with gloves – Oils can reduce value
- Photograph under UV light – Error glows distinctly
- Contact PCGS – This coin requires expert authentication
- Secure transportation – Some even hire armored carriers
“This isn’t damage—it’s the most spectacular mint error ever found.”
— Michael Tremonti, President of PCGS
Could Your “Damaged” Penny Be Worth Millions?
Check your change, dig through old collections—you just might be sitting on a piece of history.
