1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny are part of America’s rich coin history. Minted between 1909 and 1958, these coins were used in everyday life. Most of them are not worth much today, but some rare versions are highly valuable.
In fact, certain wheat pennies have been sold for more than $50,000, and in some cases, even millions! If you’re a coin collector or just curious about your old pennies, you might have one of these rare and valuable coins sitting in your collection. Let’s explore six of the most valuable wheat pennies.
1. 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny – The Rarest Coin Ever!
One of the rarest and most expensive wheat pennies is the 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny. During World War II, the US Mint switched to steel pennies to save copper. However, a few old bronze planchets were accidentally used, resulting in a few bronze 1943 pennies. This rare mistake makes the 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny one of the most sought-after coins.
- Mint Mark: Denver (D)
- Composition: Bronze
- Special Feature: Bronze used by mistake
- Auction Record: $840,000 (January 2021)
- Rarity: Only 1 known coin
If you happen to find one of these pennies, you could become a millionaire!
2. 1943-S Bronze Wheat Penny – A Priceless Mistake
Another rare penny from 1943 is the 1943-S Bronze Wheat Penny. Just like the Denver version, the San Francisco Mint accidentally used bronze planchets instead of steel ones. While there are more of these than the 1943-D version, they’re still incredibly valuable.
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Composition: Bronze
- Special Feature: Rare Minting Error
- Auction Record: $504,000 (November 2020)
- Rarity: Only 6 known coins
Finding one of these rare coins could also change your life, as its value could continue to increase.
3. 1944-S Steel Wheat Penny – A Minting Mistake
After World War II, the US Mint switched back to copper for penny production in 1944. However, some old steel planchets from 1943 were used by mistake in minting, resulting in the rare 1944-S Steel Wheat Penny.
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Composition: Steel
- Special Feature: Rare 1943 Steel Planchet
- Auction Record: $408,000 (August 2021)
- Rarity: Only 2 Known Coins
This penny is identified by its steel composition, which makes it stand out among other 1944 pennies.
4. 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny – No Mint Mark, High Value
The Philadelphia Mint also made steel pennies in 1943 but accidentally used bronze planchets in a few cases. This error makes the 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny extremely rare and valuable.
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia Mint)
- Composition: Bronze
- Special Feature: Accidental use of bronze
- Auction Record: $372,000 (February 2021)
- Rarity: About 20 known coins
If you have a 1943 penny that looks like copper, it could be a highly valuable find.
5. 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Wheat Penny – A Printing Error
The 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Wheat Penny features a unique error where the letters and designs on the front of the coin appear doubled. This mistake occurred during the minting process, making the coin extremely rare and valuable.
- Mint Mark: None
- Composition: Copper
- Special Feature: Doubled Die Error
- Auction Record: $336,000 (March 2018)
- Rarity: Only a few known
If you come across a 1958 penny, make sure to check the obverse for the doubled design – it might be worth a lot!
6. 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny – The Designer’s Mark Coin
The 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny is one of the most famous and valuable wheat pennies. This coin was the first to feature the initials “VDB” (Victor David Brenner) of the designer on the back. However, due to public controversy, the initials were later removed, making the 1909-S VDB a rare collector’s item.
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Composition: Copper
- Special Feature: “VDB” initials imprinted
- Auction Record: $168,000 (April 2022)
- Rarity: Only 484,000 made
This penny is highly coveted by collectors due to its historical significance.
Do You Have Any Rare Wheat Pennies?
Here’s a quick look at the six valuable wheat pennies and their auction records:
| Year | Mint Mark | Composition | Notable Feature | Auction Record | Year of Sale |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 | D | Bronze | Accidental use of bronze | $840,000 | 2021 |
| 1943 | S | Bronze | Accidental use of bronze | $504,000 | 2020 |
| 1944 | S | Steel | Accidental use of steel planchet | $408,000 | 2021 |
| 1943 | – | Bronze | Accidental use of bronze | $372,000 | 2021 |
| 1958 | – | Copper | Doubled die obverse error | $336,000 | 2018 |
| 1909 | S | Copper | VDB initials inscribed | $168,000 | 2022 |
If you have any of these coins, it could mean you have a valuable piece of history worth thousands, if not millions of dollars!
Conclusion: Can Your Coin Make You a Millionaire?
Wheat pennies are more than just old coins – some are rare and valuable enough to sell for a fortune. Coins like the 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny and the 1909-S VDB are highly sought after by collectors and auction houses. Their unique minting errors and historical significance make them extremely valuable, and their prices continue to rise.
If you have old wheat pennies lying around, it’s worth checking them carefully. You might have a rare find that could change your life! Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, keep an eye out for these special coins that could bring you millions.
FAQ’s
How much is a 1943 D bronze wheat penny worth?
According to the NGC Price Guide, as of April 2025, a Wheat Penny from 1943 in circulated condition is worth between $0.05 and $1.25.
How many 1943 bronze pennies have been found?
Only about 10 to 15 genuine 1943 bronze pennies (or 1943 copper pennies) have been discovered, making them extremely rare and valuable coins.
What 1943 penny is worth 2 million dollars?
Among the most valuable and elusive U.S. coins is the 1943 copper Lincoln Wheat Penny, a mistake from history that could be hiding in plain sight.
