This is the 1943 penny you will see. The steel penny of 1943 is made primarily out of steel with a zinc coating. But why was steel used this year? The answer is unfortunate: War.

During World War II, copper was in such demand for tank shells and ammunition that pennies were made of steel this year. But this is not why most people search for information on the 1943 penny. The real find is actually copper 1943 pennies.

According to the ANA (American Numismatic Association), there are 40 known 1943 copper alloy pennies in existence. Speculation is these exist due to left over copper blanks still in the minting machinery.

Copper pennies are worth more in metal value than their face value and are worth collecting in large amounts for investing in copper pennies. See what people are paying for copper pennies.
[widgets_on_pages id=”ebayadnewone”] But this particular penny is so elusive it trades much higher in value due to its coin collector value. Think you have a 1943 copper penny? The best first test is with a magnet. If it sticks to the magnet, it’s probably a counterfeit as it is most likely made of steel. Be careful not to risk causing damage to your coin if you think it is a legit copy. Even the slightest “ding” can reduce value.

Another very highly sought after penny is known as the “1909 VDB” penny which, if it came from the San Francisco mint, is even more of a treasured prize.

Read more: 1909 VDB Lincoln Cent Wheat Penny