Most people barely look at pennies anymore. They collect in jars, disappear beneath car seats, and sometimes get handed back as change without a second thought. But certain Lincoln cents can be dramatically more valuable than their one-cent face value, which is why collectors carefully examine dates, mint marks, and unusual manufacturing errors.

One of the most famous examples comes from 1943, when the United States produced most pennies from zinc-coated steel because copper was needed during World War II. However, a tiny number were accidentally struck on bronze planchets left over from the previous year, creating one of America’s best-known rare coin errors.

Authentic 1943 bronze Lincoln cents are extraordinarily scarce, and exceptional examples have sold for enormous sums. Depending on the coin’s mint, condition, authenticity, and the particular auction, specimens can command six-figure prices—explaining eye-catching claims that one could be worth around $336,000.

What makes the story especially exciting is that these coins originally entered circulation like ordinary pennies. That means collectors have spent decades checking old collections and accumulated change hoping an undiscovered example might still exist. A genuine 1943 bronze cent should not simply be judged by color, however, because altered dates and copper-plated steel cents can imitate the real thing.

So before getting excited about an old Lincoln penny, check the date carefully and have any promising discovery authenticated by a reputable coin-grading service. That forgotten penny might still be worth only one cent—but if it turns out to be one of the exceptionally rare wartime errors, it could be worth a life-changing amount to the right collector.