During WWII, the military used copper for everything from shell casings to radio wire. To ensure a steady supply of copper, the U.S. Mint halted copper cents and issued special steel Lincoln Cents - but for just one year - 1943! These "Steelies" are popular with collectors and are difficult to locate. We recently acquired a cache of 1943 Steel Cents, and they're available in 50 - coin rolls only while supplies last!
As the lowest denomination circulating coin issued, the cent, which is the proper numismatic term for coins that many call pennies, was the first coin (along with half cents) struck by the U.S. Mint beginning in 1793. Made using hand-engraved dies, those first cents, as well as all the other types issued until 1857, are known as large cents and have a diameter similar to that of half dollars. The low…
