1943 Steel Lincoln Wheat Cent (Penny)
United States Mint · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1940s (Minted specifically in 1943 during WWII)
Material
Zinc-coated steel (low carbon steel core with a .001 inch coating of zinc)
Condition
Good to Very Good (Circulated). Shows significant surface wear, loss of detail in Lincoln's hair and coat, and moderate oxidation/toning common for steel coins.
Demand Level
Niche/Moderate. High supply exists, but it is a fundamental 'must-have' for every beginner coin collector.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $0.10, Mid: $0.50, High: $2.00 (Uncertified/Raw circulated condition)
Estimated Retail Value
$0.01 (Original face value in 1943)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings show individual circulated 1943 steel cents selling for $0.50 to $1.50 plus shipping. Roll sets (50 coins) often sell for $15-$25.
Description
A 1943 Lincoln Wheat Cent, notable for its unique steel composition necessitated by copper shortages during World War II. The obverse features Abraham Lincoln and the date 1943. The coin has a distinct grey/silver metallic appearance compared to standard copper pennies.
Key Features
WWII emergency issue; unique one-year material; magnetic properties (identifies it as genuine steel); highly recognizable historic artifact.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. The date 1943 matches the steel material. Key test: The coin must be magnetic. If non-magnetic, it is a plated copper coin or a multi-thousand dollar rarity (extremely unlikely).
Flaws to Note
Significant surface wear and smoothing of fine details. Likely has 'zinc rot' or minor oxidation (dark spots). This is a common circulated specimen, not a mint-state or rare error strike.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (as a single or in a lot), local coin shops, or as a 'treasure' item in a flea market booth.
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean or polish the coin, as this destroys numismatic value. Use a magnet in your listing photos to prove it is steel. Best sold as part of a 'WWII Coin Set' bundle to increase total profit margin against shipping costs.