March 8, 1999
What’s So Special About the 1943 Copper Penny?
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According to the American Numismatic Association, the 1943 copper-alloy
cent is one of the most idealized and potentially one of the most
sought-after items in American numismatics. Nearly all circulating pennies
at that time were struck in zinc-coated steel because copper and nickel
were needed for the Allied war effort.
Approximately 40 1943 copper-alloy cents are known to remain in
existence. Coin experts speculate that they were struck by accident when
copper-alloy 1-cent blanks remained in the press hopper when production
began on the new steel pennies.
A 1943 copper cent was first offered for sale in 1958, bringing more
than $40,000. A subsequent piece sold for $10,000 at an ANA convention in
1981. The highest amount paid for a 1943 copper cent was $82,500 in 1996.
Because of its collector value, the 1943 copper cent has been
counterfeited by coating steel cents with copper or by altering the dates
of 1945, 1948, and 1949 pennies.
The easiest way to determine if a 1943 cent is made of steel, and not
copper, is to use a magnet. If it sticks to the magnet, it is not copper.
If it does not stick, the coin might be of copper and should be
authenticated by an expert.
To find out about coin experts in your area, you may call the American
Numismatic Association at (719) 632-2646.
Contact: Press inquiries: Michael White (202) 354-7222 Customer Service
information: (800) USA MINT (872-6468)
www.usmint.gov |
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