Expert: PAPAJACK - 6/14/2008

Question
I have a 1943 silver penny. I did the magnet test, and it does stick to the magnet. My question is . . . Is this penny worth anything to us? It seems to be thinner than the more recent penny, and Lincoln's beard also seems more prominent. Just curious as to its worth,if any. Thank you very much for your time.

Answer
Hello Helen,                        

No copper/bronze cents were officially made that year, although a few do exist. And through a similar error some steel cents dated 1944 also exist.  

All three Mints made the Zinc Coated Steel one cent coins so they are not considered rare.
Philadelphia produced 684,628,670 of them.
Denver Mint produced 217,660,000 of them.
San Francisco produced 191,550,000 of them.

It is very likely there are many rolls of them left. Or even to collect a 50 to 100 of them would have been easy in the 1960's to 1970's. I don't see too much in circulation any more. A lot of them rot away if exposed to the elements.

Their value ranges from .20 cents for lower grade specimens to about $3.00 in brilliant uncirculated condition to collectors.

Please remember to rate this answer at the bottom of this page. And check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Thank You and Good Luck

PapaJack