Lincoln Wheat Penny: The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a small copper coin that has captured the fascination of collectors for over a century. First minted in 1909 to honor Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, this penny was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person rather than a symbolic figure. With its simple design of Lincoln’s profile on the front and wheat stalks on the back, the Lincoln Wheat Penny quickly became a staple in everyday life.
While most of these pennies are only worth their face value, a few rare varieties have sold for over $100,000. Surprisingly, some of these valuable coins are still in circulation, waiting to be discovered in pocket change or old piggy banks. This article will explore the history of the Lincoln Wheat Penny, its rare editions, and tips on identifying a valuable coin.
Quick Overview of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
| Feature | Details |
| First Minted | 1909 |
| Designer | Victor David Brenner |
| Obverse (Front) | Abraham Lincoln’s profile |
| Reverse (Back) | Two wheat stalks framing “ONE CENT” |
| Mint Locations | Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), San Francisco (S) |
| Most Valuable Varieties | 1909-S VDB, 1943 Copper, 1955 Doubled Die |
| Highest Auction Price | Over $100,000 |
| Circulation Period | 1909 to 1958 |
| Rarity Factors | Low mintage, minting errors, excellent condition |
A Brief History of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
The creation of the Lincoln Wheat Penny marked a turning point in U.S. coin design. Before 1909, coins typically featured symbolic figures like Lady Liberty. However, President Theodore Roosevelt wanted American coins to reflect the nation’s history. He commissioned Victor David Brenner, a Lithuanian-born sculptor, to design a penny featuring Abraham Lincoln.
Brenner’s design was inspired by a photograph of Lincoln taken in 1864. The coin’s reverse side, with two wheat stalks framing the words “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” symbolized America’s agricultural heritage. This design earned the penny its nickname: the Lincoln Wheat Penny.
Production continued until 1958 when the wheat design was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial design. Despite this, the Lincoln Wheat Penny remains popular among collectors, with certain rare editions commanding impressive prices.
Why Are Some Lincoln Wheat Pennies Worth $100K?
Most Lincoln Wheat Pennies are common and worth only a few cents. However, a few rare varieties are highly valuable due to limited production, minting errors, and their condition. Here’s what makes a Lincoln Wheat Penny worth up to $100,000:
- Low Mintage: Coins produced in limited quantities, like the 1909-S VDB, are rare and valuable.
- Minting Errors: Mistakes during the minting process, such as the 1955 Doubled Die, create unique coins that collectors prize.
- Wartime Metal Shortages: During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to steel pennies, making copper 1943 pennies extremely rare.
- Excellent Condition: Coins with minimal wear and clear details are worth more. Collectors often seek coins graded by services like PCGS or NGC.
Top 3 Lincoln Wheat Pennies Worth Over $100K
- 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny
- This coin is one of the most famous in American numismatics. The “S” mint mark indicates it was minted in San Francisco, and “VDB” are the initials of designer Victor David Brenner.
- Only 484,000 were produced before the U.S. Mint removed Brenner’s initials due to public criticism.
- A well-preserved 1909-S VDB can sell for more than $100,000.
- 1943 Copper Lincoln Wheat Penny
- During World War II, copper was needed for military equipment, so pennies were made from steel. However, a few copper blanks were accidentally used, creating the rare 1943 Copper Penny.
- Experts estimate that only 20 to 40 of these pennies exist, making them incredibly valuable.
- One of these pennies sold for over $200,000 at auction.
- 1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Wheat Penny
- This coin features a striking error caused by a misalignment during the minting process. The date and inscriptions appear visibly doubled, making the error easy to spot.
- Approximately 20,000 of these pennies were released into circulation.
- In mint condition, the 1955 Doubled Die Penny can fetch over $100,000.
How to Identify a Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny
Want to know if you have a valuable Lincoln Wheat Penny? Here’s what to look for:
- Check the Date and Mint Mark: The mint mark (S for San Francisco, D for Denver, and no mark for Philadelphia) is located below the date. Focus on rare combinations like 1909-S VDB, 1943 Copper, and 1955 Doubled Die.
- Look for Design Errors: The 1955 Doubled Die Penny has noticeable doubling on the date and inscriptions. Other errors include repunched mint marks and off-center strikes.
- Test the Metal for 1943 Pennies: Use a magnet to check 1943 pennies. Copper pennies won’t stick to a magnet, while steel ones will.
- Examine the Condition: Coins with minimal wear and sharp details are more valuable. Uncirculated coins with original shine are especially prized.
If you suspect your penny is valuable, have it authenticated and graded by a professional service like PCGS or NGC.
Where to Find a Valuable Lincoln Wheat Penny
Believe it or not, rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies still occasionally turn up in everyday circulation. Here are the best places to search:
- Your Pocket Change: Always check your coins—you might find a hidden gem.
- Coin Rolls from Banks: Buy rolls of pennies from banks and search through them for rare editions.
- Estate Sales and Garage Sales: Look for old coin collections that may include Wheat Pennies.
- Online Auctions: Sites like eBay often have valuable pennies, but verify authenticity before buying.
Tips for Preserving Your Lincoln Wheat Penny
If you find a valuable Lincoln Wheat Penny, proper care is essential to maintain its worth:
- Store Coins in Protective Holders: Use coin albums or plastic holders to prevent damage.
- Avoid Cleaning Your Coins: Cleaning can reduce a coin’s value by removing its natural patina.
- Handle Coins Carefully: Always hold coins by the edges to avoid fingerprints and smudges.
- Keep Coins in a Cool, Dry Place: Protect coins from moisture, heat, and humidity to prevent corrosion.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my Lincoln Wheat Penny is valuable?
Look at the date, mint mark, and condition. Rare varieties like the 1909-S VDB, 1943 Copper, and 1955 Doubled Die are especially valuable.
2. Can I still find a rare Lincoln Wheat Penny in circulation?
Yes, although it’s rare. Some collectors still discover Wheat Pennies in their pocket change or coin rolls from banks.
3. How much is a common Lincoln Wheat Penny worth?
Most Wheat Pennies are worth just a few cents, but coins in excellent condition can be worth a few dollars.
4. Why is the 1943 Copper Penny so valuable?
Only 20 to 40 were accidentally minted during a year when pennies were supposed to be made of steel, making them incredibly rare.
5. Should I clean my Lincoln Wheat Penny?
No. Cleaning can damage the coin’s surface and reduce its value. Always leave coins in their original condition.
Final Thoughts
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just a coin—it’s a piece of American history. With some rare editions selling for over $100,000, it’s worth taking a closer look at the pennies in your pocket or old coin jars. Who knows? You might discover a hidden treasure that could change your life!
If you found this article helpful, leave a comment below and share your coin-collecting experiences. Curious about other rare coins? Explore more articles and start your own coin-hunting adventure!