What started as a simple afternoon with his grandfather turned into a life-changing moment for a 10-year-old boy. While sorting through an old jar of pennies, he stumbled upon a rare 1943 bronze Lincoln cent—a coin so valuable it sold for over $800,000.
This incredible discovery proves that hidden treasures can be found in the most unexpected places. Here’s the full story of how a seemingly ordinary penny turned into a fortune.
The Unexpected Discovery
The boy and his grandfather, a retired schoolteacher and coin enthusiast, were going through an old glass jar filled with pennies that had been stored away for years. Most of the coins were common, but one stood out—it was darker, heavier, and made of copper, unlike the typical steel 1943 pennies.
His grandfather immediately recognized that this coin was special. After some research, they realized they might have found one of the rarest pennies in U.S. history.
Why Is the 1943 Bronze Lincoln Penny So Valuable?
During World War II, the U.S. Mint stopped using copper for pennies to conserve metal for the war effort. Instead, they made 1943 pennies from zinc-coated steel, giving them a silvery appearance.
However, a few bronze planchets (coin blanks) from 1942 were accidentally left in the presses, resulting in a small number of copper 1943 pennies. These coins were never supposed to exist, making them extremely rare.
Key Factors Behind Its Value
Factor Details Historical Rarity Only 10-20 genuine 1943 bronze cents are known to exist. Minting Error Made by accident due to leftover copper planchets. Condition Well-preserved coins fetch the highest prices. Collector Demand Museums and private buyers compete for these rare coins.
Because of these factors, a 1943 bronze Lincoln penny in top condition can sell for $500,000 to over $1 million.
From a Dusty Jar to a Life-Changing Sale
After confirming the coin’s authenticity with professional graders, the family decided to sell it. News of the discovery spread quickly, attracting interest from collectors and auction houses.
The final sale? Over $800,000—enough to pay off their home, set up college funds, and secure their financial future.
The Boy Behind the Fortune
Despite the sudden wealth, the boy remains a typical 10-year-old—playing video games, riding his bike, and going to school. His grandfather summed up their luck perfectly:
“We weren’t looking for treasure. It found us. We were just lucky enough to recognize it.”
Could You Find a Rare Coin Too?
Most people won’t stumble upon a coin worth hundreds of thousands, but this story reminds us to pay attention to the small things. Old jars, inherited collections, or even spare change might hold hidden rarities.
If you’re curious, here’s what to look for:
- 1943 copper pennies (they should be steel)
- 1955 doubled-die pennies
- 1913 Liberty Head nickels (only 5 exist)
You never know—your pocket change could be worth a fortune!
FAQs About the Rare 1943 Penny
1. Why is the 1943 bronze penny so rare?
The U.S. Mint only made steel pennies in 1943, but a few copper ones were accidentally struck. Fewer than 20 are known to exist.
2. How much is a 1943 bronze penny worth?
Depending on condition, they can sell for $500,000 to over $1 million. The boy’s coin sold for $800,000.
3. How can I tell if my 1943 penny is valuable?
- A magnet won’t stick to a bronze penny (steel pennies are magnetic).
- It should weigh 3.11 grams (steel pennies weigh 2.7 grams).
- Check for a copper color instead of silver.
4. Are there other valuable pennies to look for?
Yes! Keep an eye out for:
- 1955 doubled-die penny
- 1909-S VDB penny
- 1969-S doubled-die penny
5. What should I do if I find a rare coin?
Get it authenticated by a professional grading service (like PCGS or NGC) before selling it to a collector or auction house.
Final Thought: Always Take a Second Look
This heartwarming story proves that treasure can be hiding anywhere—even in a forgotten jar of pennies. Whether you’re a coin collector or just curious, it pays to examine old coins carefully. Who knows? You might just find the next million-dollar penny!
Have you ever found a rare coin? Share your story in the comments!