The Mysterious WWII-Era Penny That Stumped Experts
A follower of @TheCoinChannel thought they had discovered a legendary 1943 copper penny worth six figures. But when the coin was submitted to PCGS, experts revealed something even rarer: a 1943 penny struck on a secret experimental shell casing planchet. Only 2–3 examples are known, making this one of the most mysterious coins of World War II.
🔎 What Makes This Penny So Special?
- Not Standard Copper or Steel: Minted on a WWII shell casing planchet, with an alloy never publicly disclosed.
- Tricky Weight: Weighs 3.11 grams, just like a normal copper cent, fooling even seasoned collectors.
- Historic Experiment: Believed to be a secret mint test during the wartime metal shortage.
- Auction Record: A similar example sold for $167,000, cementing its place among the rarest U.S. coins.
🕵️♂️ How to Spot Ultra-Rare Experimental Pennies
- Weigh It: A true piece should weigh about 3.11g.
- Magnet Test: Results may vary—some experimental alloys react differently.
- Check the Color: Shell-case cents often show a dull gray or brass-like tone, unlike standard copper or shiny steel cents.
- Get Certified: Only PCGS or NGC can confirm authenticity.
⚠ What to Do If You Find One
- Never Clean It: Cleaning destroys the unique surface and slashes value.
- Handle With Gloves: Protects against oils that can damage the alloy.
- Insure Immediately: Even circulated examples could be worth six figures.
🔮 Other Experimental U.S. Pennies to Watch For
| Year | Type | Potential Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1943 | Shell Casing Planchet | $100,000+ |
| 1974 | Aluminum | $250,000+ |
| 1982 | Transitional Copper | $20,000+ |
🚨 Beware of Fakes!
- Some altered 1943 steel cents are copper-plated to trick buyers.
- Only certified coins from top graders should be trusted.
🎯 Final Thought
Most collectors dream of finding the famous 1943 copper penny—but the experimental shell-case variety is even rarer. If one slipped into circulation, it could still be sitting in a jar, roll, or collection today.
👉 Check every coin carefully—your next penny could be a $167,000 discovery.
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