Coin Collector’s Dream $21,000 Penny Found In Old Lunchbox
In a remarkable twist of fate, a rare 1943 copper penny—mistakenly minted during World War II—was discovered by a teenager in his school lunch change.
Initially dismissed as ordinary, this coin later fetched a staggering $204,000 at auction, captivating numismatists and collectors worldwide.
The Accidental Treasure: Discovery of the 1943 Copper Penny
In 1947, Don Lutes Jr., a 16-year-old from Pittsfield, Massachusetts, received a peculiar penny in his school cafeteria change.
Unbeknownst to him, this was one of the few 1943 Lincoln pennies erroneously struck in copper instead of the wartime-standard zinc-coated steel.
At the time, the U.S. Mint denied the existence of such coins, leading Lutes to keep it in his collection for over seven decades.
Why the 1943 Copper Penny Is So Valuable
During World War II, copper was essential for military manufacturing, prompting the U.S. Mint to produce pennies from zinc-coated steel in 1943.
However, a few copper planchets from 1942 inadvertently remained in the minting presses, resulting in a limited number of 1943 copper pennies. These coins are exceedingly rare, with only about 10 to 15 known specimens in existence.
Key Details of the 1943 Copper Penny
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Year Minted | 1943 |
| Composition | 95% Copper, 5% Zinc |
| Mint Error | Struck on leftover copper planchets |
| Estimated Quantity | Approximately 10–15 known examples |
| Auction Sale Price | $204,000 |
| Collector’s Value | Considered the “Holy Grail” of U.S. coin errors |
The Auction and Its Significance
After Lutes’ passing in 2018, his cherished penny was consigned to Heritage Auctions. In January 2019, the coin was sold for $204,000, underscoring its immense value and the fascination it holds among collectors.
This sale not only honored Lutes’ legacy but also highlighted the importance of vigilance in recognizing rare collectibles.
How to Identify a 1943 Copper Penny
To determine if you possess a genuine 1943 copper penny:
- Magnet Test: Copper is non-magnetic. If the coin sticks to a magnet, it’s likely steel.
- Color Inspection: Copper pennies have a reddish-brown hue, unlike the grayish appearance of steel pennies.
- Weight Check: Copper pennies weigh approximately 3.11 grams, whereas steel pennies are about 2.7 grams.
- Professional Appraisal: Consult a reputable coin dealer or grading service for authentication.
The story of Don Lutes Jr. and his 1943 copper penny serves as a compelling reminder of the hidden treasures that can reside in everyday places.
This extraordinary find underscores the importance of awareness and curiosity, as even a simple coin from lunch change can turn out to be a collector’s dream worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
FAQs
How many 1943 copper pennies are known to exist?
Approximately 10 to 15 specimens are confirmed, making them extremely rare and valuable.
Why were some 1943 pennies minted in copper?
Due to a minting error, leftover copper planchets from 1942 were inadvertently used in 1943, resulting in a few copper pennies.
Can I find a 1943 copper penny in circulation today?
It’s highly unlikely, but not impossible. Most known specimens are in private collections or museums.