1919-S Wheat Penny
The 1919-S Wheat Penny had a massive mintage, especially for the San Francisco Mint, with just under 140 million total coins minted. Due to the high volume of coins produced, it is likely that their abundance has made for more accessible prices. The San Francisco Mint coins are valuable due to the S-Mint mark. It is possible to find gorgeous full red varieties of the 1919-S Wheat Penny with some searching.
History of the 1919-S Wheat Penny
The 1919-S Wheat Penny is a great coin to add to any Wheat Penny series collection. It comes at a more affordable price than some of the other San Francisco coins, and is well worth the effort to find a well-struck 1919-S Wheat Penny with an attractive luster. 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 S mint mark under the date. The reverse features two stalks of durum wheat.
1919-S Wheat Penny Worth
The 1919 S Penny value ranges to under $1,000 for higher grade Mint State coins in the brown variety. As you move towards the highest grades in the red examples of this coin, prices climb a little higher towards $30,000. It can be difficult to find this coin in Gem condition, and would definitely increase the price and value if you were to come across one.
A Mint State (MS) Brown strike can range from $75 to $540, a Red Brown strike from about $125 to $1,750, and a coin with Red luster could be worth between $180 to $55,000 in the current market. These values indicate the coin's worth rises significantly with better preservation and more vibrant original color, especially for coins in full red, gem condition, which are rare for the 1919-S mint.
Type of coin: Penny
Year: 1919-S Wheat Penny
Wheat Penny Mint Mark: San Francisco
Total mintage: 139,760,000
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
FAQ
1. What is the average 1919 S Wheat Penny value?
The average 1919 S Wheat Penny value ranges from $0.20 to $2 for coins in circulated condition. For uncirculated coins, the value can start from $10 and increase significantly based on the coin's grade and condition.
2. How does the condition of the 1919 S Wheat Penny affect its value?
The condition of the 1919 S Wheat Penny greatly affects its value. Coins in uncirculated condition with minimal wear and strong original luster are valued much higher than those in circulated condition. The 1919 S Wheat Penny value can exceed $100 for coins in MS-60 (Mint State) condition, with premium values for higher grades.
3. What is the highest value ever recorded for a 1919 S Wheat Penny?
The highest value recorded for a 1919 S Wheat Penny can exceed several hundred dollars for coins in top uncirculated grades (MS-65 or higher). The exact value depends on the coin's condition, with the finest known examples fetching the highest prices at auctions.
4. Does the 1919 S Wheat Penny have any rare errors that increase its value?
While the 1919 S Wheat Penny itself is not known for major errors, any Wheat Penny with noticeable errors such as double dies, off-center strikes, or repunched mint marks can be more valuable. However, specific error coins from 1919 S are less common, and their value would depend on the rarity and appeal of the error.
5. How can I accurately determine my 1919 Penny value?
To accurately determine your 1919 S Wheat Penny value, it's recommended to consult with a professional coin grader or numismatist. They can assess the coin's condition, authenticity, and any unique features, providing a more precise valuation. For an official grade, consider submitting your coin to a reputable grading service like PCGS or NGC.
6. Are there any key factors that collectors look for in a 1919 Penny?
Collectors often look for the 1919 S Wheat Penny in high-grade uncirculated condition with strong luster and sharp details. Full, clear wheat stalk lines on the reverse and a lack of significant marks or blemishes enhance the coin's appeal and value. The presence of a mint mark ("S" for San Francisco) and the overall eye appeal are also key factors.