null
Categories
  • Home
  • 1920 Wheat Penny value

1920 Wheat Penny value

1920 Penny

The 1920 penny, also known as the 1920 Wheat Penny, features the classic Lincoln Wheat design on its obverse and reverse sides. Made of 95% copper, 5% tin, and zinc, this coin is a popular piece among collectors due to its historical significance and age. This coin is a key part of the Wheat Penny series, making it a desirable addition for those completing a full set.

 

1920 Penny value

AUCTION RECORD: $1,500 • NGC Genuine 

Image source: PCGS

History of the 1920 Wheat Penny

The 1920 Wheat Penny is an attractive coin that is well worth the effort of cherrypicking to find the ideal coin for your collection. When searching, look for a coin with a sharp strike and an attractive luster and surface. 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. The Wheat Penny series is an affordable series for collectors looking to complete their project at a more accessible cost. 

1920 Penny Value

As of 2024, the value of a 1920 penny varies significantly based on its condition. In circulated condition, it typically ranges from $0.20 to $5. For uncirculated or mint state coins, the value can be much higher, often reaching up to $50 or more. The coin's value is influenced by factors such as its grade, rarity, and demand among collectors.

The 1920 Wheat Penny worth ranges to upwards of $500 for a high grade Mint State coin, which is very affordable. As the 1920 Wheat Penny moves into the red varieties, the price goes up into the low tens of thousands. It’s possible to find a gorgeous coin to add to your Wheat Penny series collection, and at a fraction of the cost of some of the others in the series. 

Here's an overview of the most valuable 1920 Wheat Pennies based on their mint marks and conditions:

1. 1920-S Wheat Penny

  • Mintage: 46,220,000
  • Value Range: Circulated coins are generally worth a few dollars, but uncirculated examples, especially those in higher grades (MS-65 and above), can fetch between $100 and $600. Exceptionally well-preserved coins with full original mint luster and no significant marks or blemishes can be valued higher.

2. 1920-D Wheat Penny

  • Mintage: 49,280,000
  • Value Range: Similar to the 1920-S, circulated 1920-D pennies might be worth a few dollars, but uncirculated coins in pristine condition can command prices from $100 to over $500. The price increases significantly for coins in top uncirculated conditions with sharp details and full luster.

3. 1920 Wheat Penny (No Mint Mark - Philadelphia)

  • Mintage: 310,165,000
  • Value Range: Given its high mintage, the Philadelphia minted 1920 Wheat Penny is quite common, even in higher grades. Circulated coins are worth a few cents to a couple of dollars. 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 1920 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 that retain their 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 specific errors and varieties for the 1920 Wheat Penny are not as commonly noted as in other years, any coins with noticeable errors (e.g., double dies, off-center strikes) can be more valuable. However, no widely recognized major errors significantly increase the value for this year.

 

Type of coin: Penny

Year: 1920 Wheat Penny

Wheat Penny Mint Mark: Philadelphia

Total mintage: 310,165,000

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 1920 Wheat Penny? A 1920 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 President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two wheat stalks on the reverse, symbolizing national prosperity.

  2. How much is a 1920 Wheat Penny worth? The value of a 1920 Wheat Penny can vary widely based 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 1920 Wheat Pennies? While the 1920 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 1920 Wheat Penny? The 1920 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 1920 Wheat Penny is valuable? To determine if your 1920 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 1920 Wheat Penny can have? The highest grade a 1920 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 1920 pennies are found in lower uncirculated grades, such as MS 63 to MS 65.

  7. Can a 1920 Wheat Penny have errors? Yes, like any coin, the 1920 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 1920 Wheat Penny? To care for your 1920 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 1920 Wheat Penny graded? If you believe your 1920 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 1920 Wheat Penny? You can sell your 1920 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, 1919 wheat penny value, 1917 wheat penny value, 1909 penny.