The 1943 D Lincoln cent is one of the most interesting coins ever made in the United States. Minted during World War II, this penny is special because of its unusual materials and the rarity of some of its error versions.
In this article, we will look at why this coin is so popular, its history, key features, and how much different versions of this penny are worth today.
The History Behind the 1943 D Lincoln Cent
In 1943, the U.S. Mint faced a serious shortage of copper, which was needed for war materials. To solve this problem, the U.S. Treasury decided to make pennies using zinc-coated steel instead of the usual bronze. This change led to the production of over one billion steel cents at mints in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco.
The Denver Mint alone produced 217,660,000 steel pennies, which included a rare version of the 1943 D Lincoln cent that was mistakenly made using leftover copper planchets from 1942.
The Composition of the 1943 D Lincoln Cent
Most 1943 Lincoln pennies are made from steel coated with zinc, giving them a shiny, silver-like look. These steel pennies are quite common. However, a tiny number of 1943 Lincoln pennies were accidentally struck on leftover copper planchets from the previous year. These copper pennies are very rare and can be worth a lot of money.
Mint Composition and Mintage
- Denver Mint (Steel): 217,660,000 coins
- Denver Mint (Copper Planchet Error): Fewer than 10 known coins
Current Value of the 1943 D Lincoln Cent
The current value of a 1943 D Lincoln cent depends on its type and condition.
Current Value (Uncirculated)
- Steel Pennies: $3.30 to $192
- Copper Planchet (Error): Up to $1.7 million
Why Is the 1943 D Lincoln Cent So Rare?
Several reasons make the 1943 D Lincoln cent so rare:
Copper Planchet Error
The most valuable versions of the 1943 D penny were made on copper planchets by mistake. There are only a few of these coins left, and one sold for $1.7 million in 2010!
D over D Mintmark Error
Another valuable variety is the “D over D” mintmark error. In this case, the mintmark was struck twice. This error is easy to see and is highly sought after by collectors.
Zinc-Coated Steel Variations
While most 1943 pennies are steel, their value can vary based on their condition. Uncirculated, high-quality steel pennies can be worth a lot of money.
The 1943 Copper Cent: The Ultimate Treasure
The copper versions of the 1943 Lincoln penny are famous among coin collectors. Fewer than 10 of these copper cents from the Denver Mint are believed to exist today.
These coins weigh about 3.11 grams (compared to 2.7 grams for the steel versions) and do not stick to a magnet. This makes it easier for collectors to spot the copper coins.
Current Values of 1943 D Lincoln Cents
The value of a 1943 D Lincoln cent varies based on its type, errors, and condition.
Steel Pennies
- Good Condition: $0.22
- Extremely Fine: $0.50
- Gem Uncirculated: $8 to $45
- Superb Gem Uncirculated: $111 to $192
Copper Pennies
- Uncirculated (Copper Planchet): Up to $1.7 million
The 1943 D Lincoln cent is a highly prized coin in the world of collecting. Its rarity and unique errors make it a fascinating piece of American history.
What is the 1943 D Lincoln cent?
The 1943 D Lincoln cent is a penny minted during World War II, made primarily of zinc-coated steel due to a copper shortage.
Why are some 1943 D Lincoln cents valuable?
Some 1943 D pennies were mistakenly struck on copper planchets, making them extremely rare and valuable.
How can I tell if my 1943 D penny is steel or copper?
Steel pennies are silver-colored and stick to a magnet, while copper pennies are a darker color and do not stick to a magnet.
What is the most valuable version of the 1943 D Lincoln cent?
The most valuable version is the copper planchet error, with one selling for up to $1.7 million.
How many 1943 D Lincoln cents were made?
Over 217 million steel cents were made at the Denver Mint, but fewer than 10 copper planchet errors are known to exist today.
