1914-D Wheat Penny
The 1914 D Penny had a tiny mintage compared to some of the other years in the Wheat Penny series. It had just under 1.2 million total coins struck from the Denver Mint. In fact, this is one of the smallest mintages in the series making it a Wheat Penny key date that is well worth finding. Compared to the Philadelphia Mint of this same year that minted over 75 million coins, it’s no wonder this coin is so special and sought after. Continue reading to learn more about 1914 D Wheat Penny Value.
History of the 1914-D Wheat Penny
The 1914-D Wheat Penny is an extremely valuable coin within the Wheat Penny series and can cost upwards of $150,000 for a full red high grade version. When searching for this coin, it’s important to get it authenticated as there are many counterfeits out there. The Wheat Penny was designed by Victor David Brenner. President Theodore Roosevelt wanted to prepare new coin designs that had more artistic merit. He chose Brenner based on a plaque he created with Lincoln’s profile. The Wheat Penny depicts a bust and profile of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse, with the D mint mark under the date. The reverse features two stalks of durum wheat.
1914 D Penny Worth
The 1914 D Penny value is incredibly high, with it bringing in over $158,000 in the past. This coin is a key date within the series making it valuable and a treasured piece for the Wheat Penny series. Authenticating any 1914-D Wheat Penny you find will be important to ensure you are actually getting the Denver Mint coin that is so elusive. Once you’ve found it, you’ll have a special piece of history added to your collection.
Value Range:
- Mint State (Uncirculated): The value for 1931-S Wheat Pennies in Mint State ranges from $5,000 to $7,000, depending on the coin's color and grade (brown, red-brown, or red).
- Circulated Condition: Prices for circulated examples start much lower, typically ranging from $80 to $150, making it accessible to those on a budget.
Why It’s Affordable:
While the 1931-S Wheat Penny is rare, its affordability stems from the large number of coins hoarded by collectors when the U.S. Mint announced its low mintage. This saved a significant portion of the coins in better condition, keeping prices reasonable for collectors.
Building a Wheat Penny Collection on a Budget:
The Wheat Penny series, including the 1931-S, is perfect for collectors who want to assemble a full collection without overspending. Here’s how you can approach it:
- Start with Circulated Coins: Focus on finding circulated 1931-S Wheat Pennies to add to your collection. These are much more affordable and still hold significant historical value.
- Upgrade Over Time: As your budget grows, consider upgrading to higher-grade examples, such as red or red-brown uncirculated coins.
- Check Auctions and Dealer Listings: Watch for auctions or reputable dealers offering 1931-S Wheat Pennies, as these can provide opportunities to find coins in your desired condition and price range.
- Inspect for Authenticity: The rarity of the 1931-S Penny has made it a target for counterfeits. Ensure any purchase is authenticated by a reputable grading service, such as PCGS or NGC.
Whether you’re just starting your coin-collecting journey or looking to enhance an existing collection, the 1931-S Wheat Penny is a must-have for its historical significance and investment potential.
Type of coin: Penny
Year: 1914-D Wheat Penny
Wheat Penny Mint Mark: Denver
Total mintage: 1,193,000
Metal content: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
Face value: 1 cent
Weight: 3.11 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: Victor David Brenner
Diameter: 19.00 millimeters