This Memorial Day, we remember through the coins that carry history in their metal.

As Americans pause to remember those who gave their lives for our country, collectors know that history isn’t just found in textbooks — it’s found in our hands.

From wartime coin shortages to special commemoratives, the coins we collect tell a deeper story of American sacrifice, resilience, and patriotism. This Memorial Day, let’s look at some of the most compelling pieces that reflect those values.

The 1943 Steel Cent – Copper for the War Effort

In the middle of World War II, copper was in short supply. It was too valuable for shell casings and wiring — so the U.S. Mint produced pennies from zinc-coated steel instead. These one-year-only coins remind us that even the smallest denominations contributed to the war effort.

Collector’s Tip: Look for high-grade steel cents or the ultra-rare 1943 copper penny — a minting error that’s become legendary.

In 1943, all U.S. cents were supposed to be made from zinc-coated steel to conserve copper for WWII ammunition and wiring. But a few leftover copper planchets from 1942 were accidentally used — and the result was one of the most famous mint errors in American history.

How to Spot a Real One:

• Non-magnetic: Unlike steel cents, genuine 1943 copper cents won’t stick to a magnet.

• Weighs more: Real copper examples weigh 3.11 grams (vs. 2.7g for steel).

• Must be authenticated: Counterfeits abound. Many are altered 1948 coins with the “8” filed to look like a “3.”

Value:

• Genuine 1943 copper cents have sold for $100,000 to over $1 million, depending on condition and mint mark.

If you think you’ve found one, don’t clean it — call us and we will have it authenticated by PCGS or NGC.

The Silver Jefferson War Nickels (1942–1945)

To conserve nickel for armor plating, the U.S. altered the composition of the 5-cent coin — using silver, copper, and manganese. You can spot these “war nickels” by the large mint mark above Monticello. These were the only U.S. nickels ever made with silver, making them a wartime oddity and a meaningful collector's item.

WWII Commemorative Coins & Medals

While not minted during the war, several U.S. commemorative coins honor WWII heroes and veterans.
Notables include:

• 1993 World War II 50th Anniversary Silver Dollar

• 2010 American Veterans Disabled for Life Dollar

• 2020 End of World War II 75th Anniversary American Eagle

Each coin reflects a different part of the American experience — from victory and sacrifice to remembrance and hope.

Civil War Tokens & Sutler Coins

Long before federal coin shortages were addressed, private businesses and merchants issued their own coins during the Civil War. These tokens were often inscribed with patriotic slogans or Union symbolism — and they circulated among both soldiers and civilians.

Final Thoughts

Coins minted in times of sacrifice carry more than monetary value — they carry a message. A steel penny or a war nickel is a piece of the American story, a tangible connection to those who gave everything so others could live in freedom. Holding one today is like shaking hands with history.

This Memorial Day, honor their memory by remembering their story — and preserving it.