1943-D 1C MS68 Certification #07994463, PCGS #2714

Type: Lincoln Cent (Wheat Reverse), Type 2, Steel (1943) Designer: Victor David Brenner Content: Zinc-coated Steel Weight: 2.70 grams Diameter: 19.00 millimeters Edge: Plain Mint: Denver Production Strikes: 12,672,000 General Description: World War II required vast amounts of strategic metals for the war effort. Among these was copper, which was being used in large quantities to create Cents for circulation. A number of substitutes were tested as replacements before the Mint settled on a zinc-coated, steel blank. When new, Steel Cents are exceptionally bright and flashy, but the zinc oxidizes quickly if the coin is not protected, resulting in a dull, powdery finish that comes off quickly in circulation, leaving a dark gray planchet underneath. Steel Cents were minted in the hundreds of millions, so they are still easy to locate today, even in high grade. Keep Gems away from humidity and they should retain their bright luster for decades. (Source: Guth, Ron. PCGS CoinFacts) Specific Issue Description: In 1943 the U.S. Mint struck Steel Lincoln Cents at Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco. Most coins came in exceptional quality with many of them being hoarded from circulation since they appeared different than copper cents. The 1943-D Lincoln Cent is still abundant in circulated grades and even low Uncirculated grades. In MS65 - MS67 condition they usually sell as singles, with most higher-graded examples already being certified. In MS67 they are traded frequently and even in MS68. In MS68 condition they are very scarce and highly desired. There are possibly less than 200 examples that exist in MS68 with none being known in any higher condition. (Source: Hernandez, Jamie. PCGS CoinFacts) Exemplar Notes: Steel-blue and pale gold-green are the most prominent shadings on this exquisitely preserved D-mint steel cent. Acquired via Heritage Auctions, 8/2012. Photography/Imaging c/o Todd Pollock, BluCCPhotos.com

Jaime Hernandez

In 1943 the U.S. Mint struck Steel Lincoln Cents at Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco. Most coins came in exceptional quality with many of them being hoarded from circulation since they appeared different than copper cents. 

The 1943-D Lincoln Cent is still abundant in circulated grades and even low Uncirculated grades. In MS65 - MS67 condition they usually sell as singles, with most higher graded examples already being certified. In MS67 they are traded frequently and even in MS68. In MS68 condition they are very scarce and highly desired. There are possibly less than 200 examples that exist in MS68 with none being known in any higher condition.