1943 Steel Cents
In 1943 the composition of the Lincoln Cent was changed due to the wartime needs for copper. Instead of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, a composition of steel coated with zinc was used.In circulation, the new composition proved unpopular. The steel would sometime rust at the rims of the coins. Also the new cent was similar in size and color to the dime. Steel Cents lasted for only one year before reverting to the traditional composition. Steel Cents were minted at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints.
Find a selection of Steel Cents available for sale below, including coins certified by PCGS and NGC.
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