Most pennies are worth just one cent… but a single coin can change your life.
One ultra-rare 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent has been privately sold for an astonishing $15 million — making it one of the most valuable coins in the world.
Could one be hiding in your change jar? Let’s find out.
The Legendary 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to steel cents to save copper for the war effort.
But a small handful of pennies were mistakenly struck in bronze — creating one of the most famous mint errors in history.
Key Facts:
- Mint Error: Struck in bronze instead of steel
- Known Survivors: Only 10–15 exist (most in museums or elite collections)
- Record Sale: $1.7 million (2010) — top experts now value the finest examples at $15M+
How to Spot a $15M Penny
- Check the Date → Must say 1943
- Magnet Test → Steel cents stick to a magnet; bronze cents do not
- Weigh It → Bronze = 3.11g | Steel = 2.7g
Other Rare Pennies Worth Big Money
| Coin & Year | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1914-D Lincoln Cent | Low mintage (1.1M) | $100K – $2M |
| 1909-S VDB Penny | “S” mint + designer initials | $1K – $1.5M |
| 1969-S Doubled Die | Extreme doubling | $24K – $126K |
| 1992 Close AM | “A” & “M” nearly touching | $10K – $102K |
Pro Tip: Use a 10x magnifier to check for doubling and mint marks.
How to Verify Your Penny
- Check the Date & Composition
- Real 1943 cents are steel (silver-gray, magnetic)
- Copper-colored + non-magnetic could mean bronze error
- Examine Under Magnification
- Sharp details in Lincoln’s beard and wheat stalks
- No signs of copper plating over steel
- Get It Certified
- Submit to PCGS or NGC (trusted grading services)
- Authentication cost: $300+ — worth it for million-dollar coins
Where to Sell a Multi-Million Dollar Penny
- Heritage Auctions – World’s leading rare coin auctioneer
- Legend Rare Coin Auctions – Specialists in ultra-rarities
- Elite Dealers – Direct connections to private collectors
Avoid These Costly Mistakes
Never sell to random “quick cash” buyers- Don’t clean or polish — destroys value instantly
- Avoid uncertified sales for high-value coins
Join the $15M Penny Hunt!
Check every 1943 penny with a magnet today
Post clear photos in the comments — our team will help you analyze them
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