It’s easy to overlook the loose change at the bottom of a drawer or between the cushions — but one of those old pennies could be worth far more than its face value. Among ordinary coins, the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent stands out as one of the most remarkable discoveries in U.S. minting history. Created by accident during World War II, this small copper coin has sold for as much as $336,000 at auction — and a few rare pieces may still be in circulation today. Its value lies not only in its rarity but also in the fascinating story behind its creation.
In 1943, the U.S. Mint stopped using copper for pennies so the metal could be reserved for wartime manufacturing. Instead, the Mint produced cents made of zinc-coated steel, giving them a silvery finish. However, during the transition, a few leftover bronze blanks from 1942 were accidentally used in production. These bronze 1943 Lincoln cents quietly entered circulation, nearly identical to the steel ones except for their color and composition — until collectors began to take notice.
When the first examples were identified in 1947, they sparked widespread curiosity. People across the country began examining their change in hopes of uncovering one of these rare coins. Over the years, the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent has become a legendary collectible. Fewer than 20 authentic pieces are confirmed to exist, and each carries a story of history, luck, and discovery.
Today, this coin remains a symbol of how unexpected treasures can be found in the most ordinary places. Experts recommend checking coins carefully: a genuine bronze 1943 cent will not stick to a magnet and will have a warm copper tone rather than a silvery sheen. Whether it’s tucked inside an old coin jar, handed down through family, or sitting unnoticed in your wallet, that simple penny might just be one of the rarest finds in American coin history.