1 Cent

Lincoln Wheat Cent

United States · 1943

A dark, heavily corroded or oxidized coin showing the profile of Abraham Lincoln facing right. The surface appears rusty and dull due to its steel composition reacting with moisture.

Country: United States
Year: 1943
Denomination: 1 Cent
Metal: Zinc-coated Steel

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified February 15, 2026More united states coins →

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Overview

A dark, heavily corroded or oxidized coin showing the profile of Abraham Lincoln facing right. The surface appears rusty and dull due to its steel composition reacting with moisture.

Historical significance

Known as 'Steelies', these were produced during WWII to conserve copper for the war effort, specifically for the manufacture of bullet casings and other military equipment. It is the only regular-issue U.S. coin that can be picked up with a magnet.

Estimated value

$0.05 - $1.00

Care & preservation

Store in a cool, dry place to prevent further rust. Avoid cleaning with abrasive chemicals or acids, as steel pennies are highly susceptible to corrosion. Handle by the edges using cotton gloves to avoid transferring skin oils that can accelerate oxidation.