Lincoln Wheat Penny

Country of Origin: United States

Year of Issue: 1943

Denomination: 1 Cent

Composition: Zinc-coated steel (in 1943), previously copper

Lincoln Wheat Penny

Brief Description

The 1943 Lincoln penny features a depiction of President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse. It is significant as it was produced during World War II when copper was needed for the war effort, leading to a switch to steel for that year's coinage.

Historical Significance

The 1943 penny was made of steel to conserve copper for the war. The switch reflects wartime resource management and has led to specific variations in 1943 coins, with rare copper versions from that year also existing.

Estimated Value

Generally worth 10 to 50 cents in circulated condition; rare variations can be valued at much higher.

Care Instructions

Store in a dry environment; avoid handling with bare hands to prevent oil transfer; use a protective holder or sleeve to prevent scratches.

Created At: 2025-05-02T02:21:48.204766