Finds Rare 1943 Penny in Car Ashtray: What began as an ordinary car cleaning session turned into an extraordinary discovery for Lisa Henderson, an Ohio school teacher. While deep cleaning her sedan, she nearly dismissed a tarnished penny sitting in her car’s unused ashtray. That seemingly insignificant coin turned out to be one of the rarest pennies in U.S. history—a 1943 bronze Lincoln cent—which later sold at auction for an astonishing $25,300.
A Life-Changing Moment of Curiosity
As Henderson cleared out years of accumulated clutter from her car, she almost tossed the dirty penny into her spare change jar without a second thought. But something about its unusual copper appearance caught her eye. Unlike typical 1943 pennies—which were made of steel due to wartime copper shortages—this one had a distinct bronze hue. Her curiosity led her to research the coin, setting in motion a chain of events that would change her life.
The Rarity of the 1943 Bronze Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to zinc-coated steel pennies to conserve copper for military supplies. However, a few bronze planchets (coin blanks) from 1942 were accidentally left in the presses, resulting in a handful of rare 1943 bronze cents. Experts believe fewer than forty of these error coins exist today, making them one of the most sought-after treasures in numismatics.
From Forgotten Coin to Auction Sensation
After consulting with local coin experts, Henderson sent her penny to professional authenticators, who confirmed its rarity and excellent condition. News of the discovery spread quickly among collectors, leading to a competitive auction. A California-based collector ultimately secured the coin for $25,300—a staggering sum for a penny that had been overlooked for years in an ashtray.
A Financial Windfall at the Perfect Time
For Henderson, the unexpected fortune came when she needed it most. “This was completely out of the blue,” she shared. “That little penny is helping me pay off some bills and will go toward my daughter’s college fund.” Her story serves as a heartwarming reminder that life-changing opportunities can come from the most unexpected places.
A Growing Wave of Hidden Treasures
Henderson’s discovery is part of a growing trend of valuable coin finds across the country. As more people become aware of rare and error coins, similar stories are emerging—proof that treasures can be hiding in everyday places, from old jars to forgotten drawers. Numismatists encourage everyone to take a closer look at their spare change, as you never know what might be lurking in plain sight.
The Power of Paying Attention
Reflecting on her find, Henderson admitted, “I could have easily tossed it with the rest of my loose change.” Her decision to pause and investigate turned an ordinary day into an unforgettable moment. This inspiring story reminds us all to stay curious—because sometimes, the smallest discoveries can have the biggest impact.
Whether you’re sorting through old coins, cleaning out a car, or checking your pocket change, remember: history’s most valuable treasures might be right under your nose.
