Lincoln Wheat Cent

Brief Description

The obverse features the profile of Abraham Lincoln facing right with the word 'LIBERTY' and the date. The reverse (not shown but characteristic of this year) features two stalks of wheat encircling the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.

Historical Significance

Due to the critical need for copper during World War II for ammunition and military equipment, the U.S. Mint produced the 1943 penny from low-grade steel coated with a thin layer of zinc. This is the only year a regular-issue U.S. cent contained no copper.

Estimated Value

$0.10 to $5.00 (Value varies significantly based on condition and mint mark; common circulated examples are worth a few cents, while high-grade uncirculated examples can be worth more).

Care Instructions

Do not clean the coin, as scrubbing or using chemicals can remove the zinc coating and damage its numismatic value. Store in a cool, dry place inside a non-PVC coin flip or capsule to prevent 'zinc pest' or rusting of the steel core.

Created At: 2026-02-07T04:30:32.603556