What is a 1943 silver-colored Penny?

The 1943 silver-colored penny is a wartime coin issue made of steel and coated with zinc. During World War II, the war effort required a lot of copper to make shell casings and munitions. In 1943 U.S. Mint produced the penny out of zinc plated steel to save copper for the war effort, so most 1943 pennies are silver colored.

Are 1943 pennies worth more than their face value?

All 1943 pennies are worth more than their face value, but how much more is the question a lot of folks want to know the answer to. * Values are for problem-free coins (no cleanings, holes, porosity, etc.) in circulated condition unless otherwise specified. Uncirculated 1943 pennies are worth significantly more than the prices listed here.

Why were 1943 pennies silver plated?

During World War II, the war effort required a lot of copper to make shell casings and munitions. In 1943 U.S. Mint produced the penny out of zinc plated steel to save copper for the war effort, so most 1943 pennies are silver colored. Metal was not the only commodity that was critical to the war effort.