Most people know that in 1943, the U.S. Mint made steel Lincoln pennies due to copper shortages during World War II. But few know about the rare and valuable experimental bronze cents that were secretly tested that same year. These coins weren’t minting errors—they were deliberate experiments using special metal mixtures. And today, they’re worth a fortune.
Let’s uncover what makes these test coins so rare and how to identify one.
What Are the 1943 Experimental Bronze Cents?
During the war, the U.S. Mint explored different metal combinations to create a more practical and affordable penny. While the mass-produced steel cents met those needs, the Mint also struck a few bronze test coins using experimental alloy formulas.
Here’s a look at the alloy used in one known test piece:
| Metal Composition | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Copper | 91.7% |
| Zinc | 7.5% |
| Silver | 0.8% |
These coins were different from both the common steel cents and the rare bronze error coins accidentally struck that year. Because of the unusual metal mix, they may look slightly different in color and have softer design details.
How to Identify a 1943 Experimental Bronze Cent
Finding one of these is like discovering buried treasure. To distinguish it from a regular 1943 error penny, look for these clues:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Color | Duller bronze tone, not as shiny |
| Strike Quality | Slightly weaker design details |
| Weight | Typically around 3.11 grams |
| Material | Not magnetic (unlike steel cents) |
| Professional Grading | Required for proper identification |
Since they were only test strikes, most of these coins were never released. A few are now housed in museum collections—like the Edward C. Rochette Money Museum in Colorado Springs.
What Are They Worth?
Because these coins were never meant for circulation and only a handful exist, their value is enormous. If authenticated, a 1943 experimental bronze cent could be worth $150,000 or more, depending on its condition and provenance.
Collectors, historians, and museums are always on the lookout for one of these elusive cents. If you suspect you have one, don’t clean it—get it graded by a trusted third-party service like PCGS or NGC.
Conclusion
The 1943 experimental bronze cent is one of the rarest pieces in U.S. coin history. While not a minting error, it was a behind-the-scenes test that never made it to full production. That makes it an extraordinary find—historically significant, ultra-rare, and extremely valuable.
So, if you’re ever sorting through old coins or inherit a collection, keep your eyes open. You might just stumble upon a penny that could change your life.
FAQs
What is a 1943 experimental bronze cent?
It’s a rare test coin made with a special bronze alloy during World War II—not an error, but a deliberate experiment by the U.S. Mint.
How is it different from a 1943 bronze error penny?
While both are rare, the experimental cent has a unique metal mix and was struck intentionally, unlike the error coins, which were accidental.
Are these coins magnetic?
No. Unlike steel cents, experimental bronze coins are non-magnetic.
What is the value of a 1943 experimental bronze cent?
They can fetch $150,000 or more, depending on condition and authenticity.
Where can I get it authenticated?
Use a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC for verification.