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1919 Penny Value

1919 Penny Value

1919 wheat penny value in 2026 is usually about $0.40 to $5 for a circulated coin, depending on mint mark and condition. Common uncirculated 1919 wheat pennies typically range from about $20 to $150+, with 1919-D and 1919-Soften worth more than the no-mint-mark Philadelphia issue. The highest reported sale is $421,875 for a 1919 Philadelphia Lincoln wheat penny graded PCGS MS69 RD CAC, sold in 2023. Continue reading to learn more about 1919 penny value. 

1919 Penny value

AUCTION RECORD: $547 • MS65BN

Image source: PCGS

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.

 

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. 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.

1919 Penny Value in 2026

As of 2026, a 1919 Lincoln Wheat penny is worth more than most common 1940s–1950s wheat cents, especially with a D or S mint mark. Value depends mainly on mint mark, grade, color, and whether the coin is certified.