1943 Lincoln Steel Cents

This image features two 1943 Lincoln Wheat Cents, a unique World War II-era mintage. Produced during a period of copper shortages due to the war effort, these coins are composed of zinc-coated steel rather than the traditional bronze alloy, giving them a distinct silvery-grey or dull metallic appearance. Both specimens shown are from the Philadelphia Mint, indicated by the absence of a mint mark below the 1943 date. Characterized by the classic Victor David Brenner profile of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse, these coins measure 19.05 mm in diameter. The specimen on the left displays a darker, more uniform oxidation or 'zinc rot' patina often seen on steel pennies exposed to moisture over decades. The specimen on the right appears slightly brighter but shows significant surface wear, particularly on the higher points of Lincoln's hair and cheekbone, along with visible dark spotting and rim dings. Both coins exhibit circulated condition with softened details in the lettering of 'LIBERTY' and 'IN GOD WE TRUST,' indicating they were in general commerce for some time before being placed into the blue numismatic display folder. Due to their magnetic properties and susceptibility to corrosion, surviving examples in high grades are prized; however, these specific examples show common mid-grade wear and surface degradation consistent with mid-20th-century circulation.

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