The 1973 silver penny is one of the most popular coin searches online. Many people find a shiny silver-colored 1973 Lincoln cent and wonder if it’s a rare aluminum prototype or valuable error.
Short answer: Almost every 1973 silver penny is a common plated copper cent worth 1¢. True experimental aluminum cents were struck in 1973 but dated 1974, and surviving examples are extremely rare, legally problematic, and potentially worth hundreds of thousands to millions.
Why People Call It the 1973 Silver Penny (The 1974 Aluminum Story)
In 1973, copper prices rose so high that the U.S. Mint spent nearly 1¢ to make a 1¢ coin. They experimented with a 96% aluminum alloy to cut costs, improve durability, and reduce die wear. Over 1.5 million aluminum Lincoln cents were struck in 1973 all dated 1974 for planned circulation.
The plan failed due to opposition from:
- Copper industry lobbyists
- Vending machine companies (compatibility fears)
- Pediatric radiologists (aluminum’s radiodensity — swallowed coins would be nearly invisible on X-rays)
The Mint recalled and destroyed nearly all the coins. Only about 10–14 are believed to have never returned. The U.S. government considers any surviving 1974 aluminum cents as federal property.
How to Tell If Your 1973 Silver Penny Is Valuable
Use these simple at-home tests:
- Weight Test (Most Reliable): Genuine aluminum = ~0.93–0.94 grams (extremely light). Normal copper penny = 3.11 grams. Struck on dime planchet (real silver-looking error) = ~2.27 grams.
- Magnet Test: Aluminum is non-magnetic. If it sticks, it’s likely nickel- or steel-plated.
- Visual Inspection: Check for plating peel (especially between “O” and “N” in ONE) or excess buildup around “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Real aluminum has a consistent light silver finish without peeling.
- Rim Check: Gently rub the edge — copper showing through means it’s plated.
If your coin is silver-colored, weighs ~3.11g, and shows any peeling or buildup, it’s almost certainly a post-mint plated novelty worth face value.
1973 Penny Errors That Are Actually Worth Money
Here are documented valuable 1973 Lincoln cent errors:
| Error Type | Typical Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Struck on Dime Planchet | $450 – $26,000+ | Silver appearance, lighter weight (~2.27g) |
| Large Die Break (Cud) | $100 – $450+ | Raised blank area |
| Capped Die | $140 – $470+ | Distorted strike |
| Brockage (Mirror Image) | $200 – $300+ | Reversed design |
| High Grade MS67 Red | $3,700 – $4,900+ | 1973 or 1973-D Gems |
| Off-Center / Double Die | $50 – $250+ | Common but popular |
Plated “silver” 1973 pennies rarely have numismatic value.
1974 Aluminum Penny Value
Authentic examples have never sold publicly due to legal risks. Expert estimates for a clear, high-grade specimen range from $200,000 to over $2 million. A verified 1974-D example was once valued in that range before being returned to the Mint.
Important Legal Note: Owning a genuine experimental aluminum cent is considered illegal by the U.S. Mint. Most experts recommend surrendering any suspected prototype to authorities or a major grading service.
FAQ – 1973 Silver Penny Questions
Is my 1973 silver penny aluminum?
Only if it weighs under 1 gram and is non-magnetic. Almost none dated 1973 are real aluminum.
What makes a 1973 penny silver-colored?
Usually nickel, chrome, or zinc plating from science experiments, novelty items, or chemical alteration.
Should I get my 1973 silver penny appraised?
Yes if it passes the weight and magnet tests. Take it to a reputable dealer or submit to PCGS or NGC without cleaning it.
Are there real 1973 silver pennies worth thousands?
Only rare mint errors like dime planchet strikes. Plated ones are not.
If you found a suspicious 1973 silver penny, weigh it accurately first. True rarities are legendary because so few exist — and most “silver” finds turn out to be ordinary plated cents.
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