Lincoln penny: A forgotten Lincoln penny once used in a middle school science experiment has shocked coin experts and collectors by turning out to be worth more than $15,000. What started as just another old coin from a desk drawer has now become a piece of American history — and a collector’s dream.
In this article, we’ll dive into how this penny, used in a simple classroom demonstration, became a rare and valuable find. We’ll also explore what makes certain coins incredibly valuable, how to identify them, and what this amazing discovery can teach us about looking closely at everyday objects.
Quick Snapshot: The Lincoln Penny That Changed Everything
| Feature | Description |
| Coin Year | 1943 |
| Coin Type | Lincoln penny |
| Special Feature | Minted on a rare copper blank |
| Original Use | Classroom science project |
| Discovery | Found during spring cleaning |
| Appraisal Value | Estimated $15,000–$18,000 |
| Rarity Level | Fewer than 20 known |
A Coin From the Classroom to the Auction Block
Years ago, a retired science teacher used a handful of coins — including a Lincoln penny dated 1943 — to show students how magnets attract certain metals. The penny wasn’t shiny or new. In fact, it looked like any other small change and had been stored with paper clips and nails in a plastic bag.
After sitting untouched for years, the coin was rediscovered during a cleaning session. Out of curiosity, it was shown to a local coin shop. The shop owner noticed the 1943 date and immediately knew it might be something special.
What’s So Special About the 1943 Lincoln Penny?
In 1943, the U.S. was deep in World War II. Copper was needed for war supplies, so the U.S. Mint began making pennies from steel coated in zinc instead. These coins are silver in color and stick to magnets, which is why they’re often used in school experiments.
But by mistake, a few copper coin blanks — known as planchets — ended up in the minting machines. These rare Lincoln pennies were struck in copper instead of steel, making them incredibly rare. Today, fewer than 20 genuine examples of the 1943 copper penny are known to exist.
Confirming the Coin’s True Identity
After seeing the 1943 date, the coin shop recommended a professional evaluation. Tests were done to measure its weight, check the metal content, and examine the coin under magnification. Since copper is heavier than steel and doesn’t stick to magnets, the results confirmed this was one of the extremely rare copper 1943 Lincoln pennies.
Even though the coin had scratches and wasn’t in perfect condition, its rarity made it extremely valuable. It recently sold at a private auction, drawing attention from collectors across the country.
Why This Coin Is Worth Thousands
There are two main reasons why this Lincoln penny became a five-figure item:
- It Was a Rare Minting Mistake
Only a tiny number of copper coins were accidentally struck in 1943, making them valuable mint errors. - The Supply Is Extremely Limited
With fewer than 20 examples known today, demand far outweighs supply, pushing the price up at auctions.
How You Can Tell If You Have a Rare Penny
Do you have a 1943 Lincoln penny lying around? It could be worth checking! Here’s how you can spot a rare one:
- Color Check: Copper pennies are reddish-brown. Steel ones are silver-colored.
- Magnet Test: If the coin sticks to a magnet, it’s steel — not copper.
- Weight Test: Copper pennies weigh about 3.11 grams. Steel ones weigh less.
- Get an Appraisal: If your penny looks different, get it checked by a professional.
It only takes a few minutes to check, and you never know — your change jar could hold a hidden treasure.
When Science Meets Luck
The beauty of this story is how unexpected it was. A classroom tool meant to teach magnetism ended up being a rare piece of U.S. history. The retired teacher who once used the coin in lessons was stunned. “We used it to explain simple science,” he said. “I had no idea it was a five-figure coin.”
This incredible find is a reminder that curiosity can lead to amazing discoveries. One small decision — getting the coin checked — turned an old school memory into a collector’s dream.
Two Key Takeaways from This Rare Coin Discovery
- Even Common Coins Can Hold Hidden Value
Just because a coin looks old or worn doesn’t mean it’s worthless. Some of the rarest finds look completely ordinary. - It Pays to Be Curious
Taking a moment to look closer — and getting a second opinion — could lead to an unexpected reward.
Why Coin Collectors Are Always on the Hunt
Coin collectors, or numismatists, are always searching for unusual pieces like the 1943 copper Lincoln penny. What makes a coin collectible isn’t just its age — it’s about rarity, condition, minting errors, and historical value.
This penny checks all the boxes. It’s rare, tied to a unique period in history, and has an incredible backstory. That’s why it sold for so much, and why collectors were willing to pay top dollar.
A Coin With a Lesson
At the end of the day, this story isn’t just about a lucky find. It’s about what happens when you mix curiosity with a bit of history and chance. A forgotten Lincoln penny turned out to be a gateway into the past — a link to World War II, U.S. minting history, and one unforgettable classroom.
FAQs
Are all 1943 Lincoln pennies valuable?
No, most are made from steel and are quite common. Only the copper ones are rare and valuable.
How many copper 1943 Lincoln pennies exist?
Fewer than 20 verified examples are known today, making them extremely rare.
What is the easiest way to check if I have a rare one?
Try the magnet test. Copper coins won’t stick. If it passes that, get it weighed or appraised.
Can scratches or damage lower the value?
In rare cases like this, minor damage doesn’t reduce the value much because the coin is so scarce.
Where can I get my coins appraised?
Visit a trusted local coin shop or use a certified grading service for an expert opinion.
Final Thought
This incredible tale of a Lincoln penny proves that amazing discoveries can happen anywhere — even in a school supply box. If you enjoyed this story, leave a comment, share it with a fellow collector, or explore more surprising finds in the world of coins and collectibles. Who knows? Your next big discovery might be sitting in your pocket.
