1930 Wheat Penny Value

1930 Wheat Penny

The 1930 Wheat Penny is a U.S. cent featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and wheat stalks on the reverse. Made from 95% copper, this coin is part of the Wheat Penny series, which is prized by collectors for its historical significance and classic design. The 1930 Wheat Penny is particularly noted for its role in the series during the Great Depression era. Continue reading to learn more about 1930 wheat penny value.

 

 

AUCTION RECORD: $432 • MS67RB

Image source: PCGS

 

1930 Wheat Penny Value

As of 2024, the value of a 1930 Wheat Penny typically ranges from $0.20 to $2.00 in circulated condition. Uncirculated examples can be worth between $10 and $30 or more, depending on their quality and mint mark. The coin’s value is influenced by its condition, rarity, and collector demand.

The 1930 Wheat Penny had over 157 million coins minted at the Philadelphia Mint. This is an average total mintage for Philadelphia, but a massive amount of coins struck overall. Due to the large mintage, the 1930 Wheat Penny is a more affordable coin and relatively easy to find in most circulated and uncirculated Mint State grades. 

History of the 1930 Wheat Penny

The 1930 Wheat Penny is possible to find with a sharp strike and attractive surfaces. Wheat Pennies produced at the Philadelphia Mint were typically crafted very well, making cherrypicking a fun adventure for those seeking a perfect fit for their Wheat Penny series collection. 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.

1930 Wheat Penny Worth

The 1930 Wheat Penny value ranges from around $300 for a Mint State brown coin and the price climbs a little higher for the red varieties towards $11,000. The 1930 Wheat Penny is the first in the series to be produced in the 1930s and would make a valuable addition to any Wheat Penny series collection. 

 

Type of coin: Penny

Year: 1930 Wheat Penny

Wheat Penny Mint Mark: Philadelphia

Total mintage: 157,415,000

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

 

The value of a 1930 Wheat Penny largely depends on its condition, mint mark, and any potential errors or varieties. 

No Mint Mark (Philadelphia)

• Circulated Condition: Most circulated 1930 Wheat Pennies from the Philadelphia mint, which do not have a mint mark, are worth about 10 to 50 cents.
• Uncirculated Condition: Uncirculated or mint state examples can range from $5 to $20 or more, depending on the grade. Coins in higher uncirculated grades (MS-65 and above) can fetch higher prices, especially if they have retained their original mint luster.

"S" Mint Mark (San Francisco)

• Circulated Condition: The 1930-S Wheat Penny is slightly more valuable in circulated condition than its Philadelphia counterpart, generally ranging from 20 cents to $1 or more.
• Uncirculated Condition: Uncirculated 1930-S pennies can be worth $10 to $50 or more, with premium grades reaching higher values.

Errors and Varieties

• Errors: Specific errors, such as double dies or off-center strikes, can increase the value of a 1930 Wheat Penny. However, significant and widely recognized errors for this year are not commonly noted.
• Varieties: While there are no major varieties for the 1930 Wheat Penny that significantly impact its value, collectors always seek unique features that might set a coin apart.

Considerations

• Condition: The coin's condition is a critical factor in determining its value. Higher grades, indicated by less wear and more original detail, command higher prices.
• Market Fluctuations: The values mentioned can fluctuate based on the current market demand for Wheat Pennies and the overall interest in coin collecting.
• Professional Grading: For the most accurate assessment of a coin's grade and value, consider having it professionally graded by a reputable service like PCGS or NGC.

Remember, the prices mentioned are estimates and can vary based on several factors, including the coin's appearance, market demand, and where it's sold.

FAQ 

1. What is a 1930 Wheat Penny? A 1930 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 1930 Wheat Penny worth? The value of a 1930 Wheat Penny varies based on its condition and mint mark. Circulated examples are generally worth about 10 to 50 cents, while uncirculated coins can range from $5 to $20 or more, with higher grades fetching higher prices.

3. Are there any rare 1930 Wheat Pennies? While the 1930 Wheat Penny itself is not considered rare, uncirculated examples in high grades or coins with specific errors can be more valuable and sought after by collectors.

4. What errors can be found on a 1930 Wheat Penny? Errors on a 1930 Wheat Penny can include double dies, off-center strikes, and lamination errors. However, significant errors that dramatically increase the coin's value are not widely recognized for this specific year.

5. Does the 1930 Wheat Penny have a mint mark? The 1930 Wheat Penny can come with or without a mint mark. Coins minted in Philadelphia do not have a mint mark, while those minted in San Francisco bear an "S" mint mark.

6. How can I tell if my 1930 Wheat Penny is valuable? To determine if your 1930 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 errors tend to be more valuable.

7. What is the highest grade a 1930 Wheat Penny can have? The highest grade a 1930 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 1930 pennies are found in lower uncirculated grades, such as MS 63 to MS 65.

8. How do I care for my 1930 Wheat Penny? To care for your 1930 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 1930 Wheat Penny graded? If you believe your 1930 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 1930 Wheat Penny? You can sell your 1930 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.

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