Error Detail: Wrong metal – In 1943, pennies were supposed to be made from zinc-coated steel due to WWII copper shortages. However, a few were accidentally struck on leftover bronze planchets from 1942.
How to Spot It: – Use a magnet. The genuine 1943 steel penny will stick; the bronze error won’t. – Bronze has a dull brown appearance; steel pennies are shiny silver.
Error Detail: Double die obverse – One of the most famous errors in U.S. coin history. The date and lettering (especially “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”) appear strongly doubled.
How to Spot It: – No magnification needed: the doubling is very obvious to the naked eye. – Very thick lettering and blurry appearance are telltale signs.
Error Detail: Double die obverse – Much rarer than the 1955 version. The doubling is prominent in the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” as well as the date.
How to Spot It: – Look for extremely clear doubling—especially around the “9” in 1969 and the “S” mint mark (though the mint mark itself is not doubled). – Only a few dozen are known to exist.