What started as a routine clean-up turned into a jaw-dropping discovery when an ordinary cookie tin revealed a rare coin worth a staggering $250,000. Tucked away among old keepsakes and forgotten trinkets was a 1943 Lincoln penny — but this wasn’t your average cent.
Let’s dive into how a penny ended up worth a quarter of a million dollars, who found it, and how you might have one just like it hiding at home.
The Mystery of the 1943 Copper Penny
In 1943, the U.S. Mint temporarily switched from copper to steel to conserve metal during World War II. But by mistake, a small number of copper planchets (blanks) from 1942 were still in the coin presses, resulting in an extremely limited run of 1943 Lincoln pennies made of copper.
Why It’s So Valuable:
- Minting Error: Only a handful of copper 1943 pennies were ever produced.
- Material: It should’ve been steel, not copper.
- Magnet Test: Steel pennies stick to magnets — copper ones do not.
- Market Demand: Collectors are willing to pay top dollar for this ultra-rare coin.
The $250,000 Discovery
The penny was discovered by a retired teacher during spring cleaning in 2025. While sorting through his late father’s belongings, he opened a vintage cookie tin filled with old keys, coins, and memorabilia. One shiny brown penny stood out from the rest.
After a quick magnet test revealed the coin was not steel, he took it to a local coin expert who confirmed it was indeed a genuine 1943 copper penny in excellent condition. After certification, it went to auction and sold for $247,500.
Details of the Rare Coin
| Coin Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Year | 1943 |
| Composition | Copper (instead of steel) |
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
| Magnet Test | Non-magnetic |
| Estimated Value (2025) | $200,000 – $250,000+ |
| Known Circulating Examples | Less than 20 |
Could You Have One Too?
The odds are slim, but not impossible. Here’s what you can do to check your old change jar, cookie tin, or coin box:
- Check the Year: Look for 1943.
- Use a Magnet: If it doesn’t stick, it might be copper.
- Weigh the Coin: Copper pennies weigh 3.11 grams, steel ones weigh less.
- Inspect with a Loupe: Look for sharp details and no signs of tampering.
- Consult an Expert: Don’t sell it until it’s verified and graded.
The discovery of a $250,000 penny in a cookie tin is a powerful reminder that sometimes, treasure is closer than we think. Whether you’re a collector or just someone with a drawer full of loose change, it pays to check your coins carefully.
Who knows? That old penny you’ve been ignoring could be worth a fortune. It’s time to check your cookie tins, jars, and shoeboxes — your own life-changing find might be just a magnet test away.
FAQs
How can I tell if my 1943 penny is copper?
Use a magnet — if it doesn’t stick, there’s a chance it’s copper. Have it weighed and verified professionally.
What makes this penny so rare?
It’s a wartime error coin, minted by accident using leftover copper blanks, with only a handful known to exist.
Where can I get my coin appraised?
You can contact a certified coin grading service or visit a reputable local coin dealer for authentication and valuation.