Most collectors know about the famous 1943 copper penny — but did you know there’s an even rarer version?
Recently, PCGS stunned the coin world by authenticating a mysterious 1943 experimental penny struck on a World War II shell case planchet. Only 2–3 examples are known to exist, and one has already sold for $167,000 at auction! 
Here’s why this discovery is groundbreaking — and how you might spot one yourself.
What Makes This 1943 Penny So Special?
Unlike the standard 1943 steel cent (produced due to copper shortages), this experimental strike is a complete mystery:
- Not Copper, Not Steel: Struck on a WWII shell case planchet with a classified alloy composition.
- Weight Trick: Weighs 3.11 grams, just like a normal copper penny — which fooled collectors at first.
- Historic Significance: Likely created as a secret test strike during America’s wartime metal shortage.
- Record Auction Sale: The only other known piece brought $167,000 at auction.
Simply put: this is one of the most elusive experimental coins in U.S. history.
How to Spot a 1943 Experimental Shell-Case Penny
Think you might have found one? Here are key checks:
1. Weigh the Coin
- 3.11 grams = Possible copper or experimental alloy.
- 2.7g–2.8g = Regular steel penny (common).
2. Magnet Test
- Some experimental alloys may not react the same as steel.
- If it doesn’t stick but weighs 3.11g — it’s worth investigating further!
3. Look for Odd Coloration
- Authentic shell-case pennies may appear dull gray or have a brassy tone.
4. Professional Authentication is Key
- Submit to PCGS or NGC for confirmation.
- Without professional grading, value is impossible to prove.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve discovered this experimental rarity:
Don’t Clean It! Cleaning alters the surface and destroys value.
Use Cotton Gloves: Oils from skin can damage rare alloys.
Get Insurance Immediately: Specialist coverage is crucial for six-figure coins.
Other Rare Experimental Pennies to Watch For
This isn’t the only U.S. Mint experiment that slipped into circulation.
| Year | Type | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 | Shell Case Planchet | $100,000+ |
| 1974 | Aluminum Penny | $250,000+ |
| 1982 | Transitional Copper (instead of zinc) | $20,000+ |
These coins often look “normal” — but they’re worth a fortune if authenticated.
Final Warning: Fakes Are Everywhere
Because of the huge market value, counterfeiters target 1943 pennies more than almost any other U.S. coin. Beware of:
- Filed-Off Steel Coins: Fakers sometimes remove zinc coating to fake “copper.”
- Wrong Weight: Anything outside ±0.13g tolerance is suspicious.
- Incorrect Tones: Real experimental alloys show unique color, not shiny copper.
Why This Coin Matters
The 1943 experimental shell-case penny is more than just a coin — it’s a glimpse into America’s WWII history, when every scrap of metal was precious.
With only a couple of known examples, it’s one of the most valuable experimental U.S. coins ever struck. And who knows? The next one could still be hiding in a collection or coin jar somewhere. 
