Uploaded September 2023 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
In the throes of World War II, the U.S. Mint made a bold move. They struck pennies in steel coated with zinc, instead of the usual 95%-copper-based bronze, due to wartime needs of copper for ammunition and other military equipment. These unique coins, known as Steel War Pennies, are pieces of history symbolizing a nation's adaptability in times of crisis. Only minted in 1943, yet some extremely rare 1944 were minted.
Most steel pennies are worth between 20 cents and 20 dollars. But certain rare specimens like the 1943-S Steel penny graded MS68 by PCGS sold for $7,200! Another high-value example is a 1943-D Lincoln penny that sold for $218,500!
Finding Steel War Pennies in pocket change isn't easy, but it's not impossible either. Keep an eye out for that unique silver color and remember they're magnetic, unlike regular copper pennies.
So let's start checking our pockets and coin jars! You might be carrying a small piece of history or even a small fortune right now. Remember, every penny counts, especially if it's a Steel War Penny! Happy hunting!
Thank you for Watching Cash and Coins!!!
In the throes of World War II, the U.S. Mint made a bold move. They struck pennies in steel coated with zinc, instead of the usual 95%-copper-based bronze, due to wartime needs of copper for ammunition and other military equipment. These unique coins, known as Steel War Pennies, are pieces of history symbolizing a nation's adaptability in times of crisis. Only minted in 1943, yet some extremely rare 1944 were minted.
Most steel pennies are worth between 20 cents and 20 dollars. But certain rare specimens like the 1943-S Steel penny graded MS68 by PCGS sold for $7,200! Another high-value example is a 1943-D Lincoln penny that sold for $218,500!
Finding Steel War Pennies in pocket change isn't easy, but it's not impossible either. Keep an eye out for that unique silver color and remember they're magnetic, unlike regular copper pennies.
So let's start checking our pockets and coin jars! You might be carrying a small piece of history or even a small fortune right now. Remember, every penny counts, especially if it's a Steel War Penny! Happy hunting!
Thank you for Watching Cash and Coins!!!
