Most collectors have heard of the famous 1943 steel penny—made during World War II when copper was needed for ammunition. But there’s a lesser-known coin from the same year that’s even more mysterious and valuable: the 1943 experimental bronze cent.
These aren’t minting errors like the accidental bronze pennies from that year—they were intentional test strikes by the U.S. Mint. And today, they’re worth a fortune.
Let’s break down what makes these coins so special, how to identify one, and what they could be worth if you’re lucky enough to find one.
Table of Contents
Experiments
During 1943, the Mint experimented with different metal blends to find a new formula for pennies. The idea was to make coins that didn’t rely on valuable copper, which was in high demand for the war effort.
One of these test coins was made with a mix of:
- 91.7% copper
- 7.5% zinc
- 0.8% silver
That blend gave the coin a unique appearance—slightly duller than standard bronze pennies. Because the metal didn’t strike as cleanly, these experimental coins often have weaker designs and softer details compared to other coins of the time.
Identification
So, how can you tell if a 1943 penny in your collection is one of these experimental pieces and not just a common steel or error bronze cent?
Experts look for:
- Color: The tone is different due to the silver content—usually duller than normal copper coins.
- Design Strength: Experimental coins often have weaker or mushier detail because of the soft metal blend.
- Weight and Composition: A professional test will show a slightly different weight and metal makeup.
If you have a 1943 penny that seems a bit off, it’s always worth having it checked by a grading service like PCGS or NGC. These are the professionals that can give you a clear answer.
Museum
These coins were never meant for public use. Most were kept at the Mint or sent to researchers. Today, very few survive. One verified example is housed at the Edward C. Rochette Money Museum in Colorado Springs, serving as proof of this rare experiment in U.S. coinage.
Value
The big question—how much is a 1943 experimental bronze cent worth?
If real, you could be looking at a minimum value of $150,000 or more. That’s not a typo. Because these were experimental and only a few are known to exist, their value skyrockets based on condition, verification, and provenance.
Some may sell for even more if they have pristine surfaces or are linked to a well-documented origin. For collectors, museums, or historians, these coins are gold—figuratively, of course.
| Coin Type | Composition | Estimated Value | Rarity Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Steel Penny | Zinc-coated steel | $0.10 – $1 | Common |
| 1943 Bronze Error Penny | 95% copper, 5% zinc/tin | $100,000+ | Extremely Rare |
| 1943 Experimental Bronze Cent | 91.7% Cu, 7.5% Zn, 0.8% Ag | $150,000+ | Ultra Rare |
Finding
If you think you’ve found one, don’t spend it! Instead:
- Keep it in a safe place
- Get it authenticated by a top grading company
- Contact a coin expert or museum for insight
- Avoid cleaning or polishing it—it can reduce the value
The 1943 experimental bronze cent isn’t just a rare coin—it’s a part of wartime history, wrapped in copper, zinc, and a tiny trace of silver.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious beginner, finding one of these coins could mean you’ve stumbled on a six-figure piece of American heritage. It’s one of those hidden gems that could truly change your life.
FAQs
What is a 1943 experimental bronze cent?
It’s a rare test coin made with a unique copper-zinc-silver mix.
How many were made?
Only a few were made as test pieces, not for circulation.
How is it different from the bronze error penny?
Experimental cents were intentional tests, not mistakes.
Where can I see one?
One is displayed at the Edward C. Rochette Money Museum.
How much is it worth?
They can sell for $150,000 or more depending on condition.
