• What is a 1943 Steel Penny, and why was it made?

    During America's participation in World War II the United States Mint created the special 1943 Steel Penny Value. During World War II the U.S. Mint minted pennies from zinc-coated steel because the military needed all available copper for war equipment. By using steel to create the coins they gained these pieces a reflective sheen that differed from copper pennies. America used its creativity to produce steel coins during the war but these pieces now interest coin collectors.