1943 (S) Lincoln Wheat Cent - Bronze

Strike Type

Coin Details

Year

1943

Denomination

Cent

Mint Mark

Strike Type

Regular Strike

Series

Lincoln Wheat Cents 1909-1958

Designer

Victor David Brenner

Composition

95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc

Weight

3.11g

Diameter

19.05mm

Edge

Plain

Value Estimates

$0.02 - $635,711

Values as of May 2026, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.

Auction Record

Price realized: $504,000
Sold: 22 November 2020
Grade: MS63BN
Auction house: Heritage Auctions

Description

The 1943 (S) Lincoln Wheat Cent - Bronze represents a San Francisco Mint issue from the Lincoln Wheat Cents 1909-1958 series. San Francisco struck 191.6 million cents dated 1943 in all, nearly all of them on steel; how many bronze pieces were struck is not recorded. The obverse features Abraham Lincoln facing right, the first real person depicted on a U.S. circulating coin and the reverse displays two wheat stalks framing ONE CENT, symbolizing American agriculture. Struck in error on a leftover 1942 bronze planchet; regular 1943 cents are zinc-coated steel. A few 1943 bronze cents were accidentally struck and are among the most famous U.S. error coins. San Francisco's storied mint, born of the California Gold Rush, has evolved into the primary producer of U.S. proof coins. Estimated market value ranges from $0.02 to $636K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19.05 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #82715.