How much is a 1943 steel penny worth?
In 1943, for one year only, the Mint made cents from steel with a zinc coating. The purpose for this change from previously minted copper cents was to save the copper for use in artillery shells during World War II. Because 1943 cents have a different color, many people believe they were made in error or are very rare. In fact, over 1 billion 1943 cents were minted. Values for this coin, as with all coins, depends on condition. Circulated 1943 cents have a very modest value.