1919 Penny

The 1919 penny, also known as the 1919 Lincoln cent, is a one-cent coin from the United States. It was produced at the Philadelphia Mint and is part of the Lincoln penny series introduced in 1909. The 1919 penny is notable for its historical significance, marking the end of World War I and reflecting the economic conditions of post-war America.

 

AUCTION RECORD: $547 • MS65BN

Image source: PCGS

History of the 1919 Wheat Penny

The 1919 Wheat Penny is a more affordable coin within the series due to the massive total mintage. It should be very easy to cherrypick with the 1919 Wheat Penny to ensure you find one with a sharp strike and 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. The reverse features two stalks of durum wheat. 

 

1919 Penny Value

The value of a 1919 penny, or Lincoln cent, varies based on its condition and mint mark. As of 2024, a 1919 penny in average circulated condition is worth approximately $0.10 to $10.00. In higher grades, such as uncirculated or gem mint condition, the value can range from $10.00 to $20.00. Key factors affecting its value include the coin's preservation, the presence of any errors or unique features, and its overall rarity.

The 1919 Wheat Penny worth, in the highest grade Mint State condition, is valued up to $18,000 for the red variety, which is more sought after, while brown varieties are worth significantly less. These prices are relatively lower compared to many other coins in the series. The Wheat Penny series remains an affordable option for collectors aiming to complete their collection at a more accessible price point.

1. 1919-S Penny

• Mintage: 139,760,000
• Value Range: In circulated conditions, its value can range from a few cents to about $50. Uncirculated examples, especially those with a high grade (MS-65 and above), can fetch between $100 and $600, with exceptional pieces reaching higher.

2. 1919-D Penny

• Mintage: 57,154,000
• Value Range: Similar to the 1919-S, circulated 1919-D pennies are relatively common and might be worth a few cents to $50. Uncirculated coins in high grades can command prices from $100 to over $500, depending on the grade and eye appeal.

3. 1919 Wheat Penny (No Mint Mark - Philadelphia)

• Mintage: Over 392 million
• Value Range: Given its high mintage, the Philadelphia minted 1919 Wheat Penny is quite common, even in higher grades. Circulated coins are worth a few cents to about $2. Uncirculated examples can range from $10 to $100+, with premiums for coins in MS-67 or higher grades.

Special Considerations for Value

• Condition: The value of a 1919 Wheat Penny increases significantly with its condition. Coins in uncirculated condition with no signs of wear and strong luster are more desirable.
• Full Red (RD) Designation: Pennies with the original copper luster (referred to as "Red" or "RD") are particularly valuable. The grading scale includes designations such as Red (RD), Red-Brown (RB), and Brown (BN), with "Red" coins being the most sought after.
• Errors and Varieties: While not as commonly noted for the 1919 Wheat Penny, any coins with minting errors or unique varieties can be more valuable. Collectors should look out for double dies, off-center strikes, or repunched mint marks.

Type of coin: Penny

Year: 1919 Wheat Penny

Wheat Penny Mint Mark: Philadelphia

Total mintage: 392,021,000

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 a 1919 Wheat Penny? A 1919 Wheat Penny is a one-cent coin produced by the United States Mint as part of the Lincoln Wheat Penny series, which ran from 1909 to 1958. It features the bust of President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two wheat stalks surrounding the words "ONE CENT" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" on the reverse.

2. How much is a 1919 Wheat Penny worth? The value of a 1919 Wheat Penny varies widely depending on its condition and mint mark. Circulated coins are generally worth a few cents to a few dollars, while uncirculated coins in pristine condition can fetch $10 to over $100. Coins with the "S" or "D" mint marks, especially in higher grades, can be more valuable.

3. Are there any rare 1919 Wheat Pennies? While the 1919 Wheat Penny itself is not considered rare due to its high mintage, certain conditions, such as uncirculated coins with full original luster or those with specific mint marks ("S" and "D"), can be more valuable to collectors.

4. What are the mint marks on a 1919 Wheat Penny? The 1919 Wheat Penny can come with three possible mint marks: none (Philadelphia), "D" (Denver), and "S" (San Francisco). The mint mark is located below the date on the obverse side of the coin.

5. How can I tell if my 1919 Wheat Penny is valuable? To determine if your 1919 Wheat Penny is valuable, examine its condition, check for a mint mark, and consult a current price guide or a professional coin appraiser. Coins in higher grades or those with less common mint marks tend to be more valuable.

6. What is the highest grade a 1919 Wheat Penny can have? The highest grade a 1919 Wheat Penny can have is MS 70 (Mint State Perfect), but such a grade is extremely rare for coins of this age. Most high-value 1919 pennies are found in lower uncirculated grades, such as MS 63 to MS 65.

7. Can a 1919 Penny have errors? Yes, like any coin, the 1919 Wheat Penny can have minting errors, such as double dies, off-center strikes, or repunched mint marks. While not commonly reported for this year, errors can significantly increase a coin's value.

8. How do I care for my 1919 Penny? To care for your 1919 Wheat Penny, handle it by the edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin, store it in a cool, dry place, and use acid-free holders or albums designed for coin storage to protect its condition.

9. Is it worth getting a 1919 Penny graded? If you believe your 1919 Wheat Penny is in exceptional condition or has a potential error, it may be worth getting it graded by a reputable grading service like PCGS or NGC. Grading can authenticate and assess the coin's condition, potentially increasing its value.

10. Where can I sell my 1919 Penny? You can sell your 1919 Wheat Penny through coin dealers, auctions, online marketplaces, or numismatic shows. For valuable or rare examples, consider consulting with a professional numismatist to ensure you receive a fair price.

 

Learn more about 1941 Wheat Penny, 1942 Wheat Penny, 1944 Wheat Penny, 1945 Wheat Penny, 1946 Wheat Penny, 1952 Wheat Penny, 1953 Wheat Penny, 1953-D Wheat Penny, 1955 Wheat Penny, 1956 Wheat Penny, 1956 D Wheat Penny, 1957 Wheat Penny, 1957 D Wheat Penny, 1958 Wheat Penny, 1958 D Wheat Penny, 1920 wheat penny, 1919 Penny.