1936 Wheat Penny
The 1936 Penny is a U.S. cent featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and wheat stalks on the reverse. Made from 95% copper, this penny can be worth from a few cents to several dollars depending on its condition and mint mark, with some rare varieties fetching higher prices. Although there were a large amount of the coins struck, they can still be difficult to find in full red varieties by the roll. Many went out into circulation, and they should be relatively easy to find in most circulated and uncirculated grades. Continue reading to learn more about 1936 wheat penny value.
Image source: PCGS
AUCTION RECORD: $920
History of the 1936 Wheat Penny
The 1936 Wheat Penny is an attractive coin that should be easy to find with a solid strike. Philadelphia often produced coins with excellent craftsmanship and a sharp strike. Cherrypicking should be easy with the plentiful nature of the 1936 Wheat Penny. The Wheat Penny was designed by Victor David Brenner. At the time, 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.
1936 Wheat Penny Worth
The 1936 Wheat Penny value ranges from under $1,000 to under $3,000 for the brown and red varieties in Mint State condition. The Wheat Penny can be found in brown, brown-red, and red varieties, with red varieties commanding higher prices. The 1936 Wheat Penny would make a great addition to any Lincoln Cent series collection.
Type of coin: Penny
Year: 1936 Wheat Penny
Wheat Penny Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Total mintage: 309,632,000
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
1936 Wheat Penny Value
The value of a 1936 Wheat Penny varies based on its condition and mint mark.. The highest prices paid for 1936 Wheat Pennies at coin auctions are for those in exceptional condition, typically graded MS67 or higher with the "Red" (RD) designation. Here are some notable auction results:
- 1936 (Philadelphia) MS67+ Red: These coins can fetch around $5,000 to $6,000 at auction.
- 1936-D (Denver) MS67 Red: Coins in this grade have been known to sell for approximately $3,000 to $4,000.
- 1936-S (San Francisco) MS67 Red: These coins can command prices in the range of $4,000 to $5,000.
FAQ
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What is the value of a 1936 Wheat Penny?
- The value of a 1936 Wheat Penny depends on its condition and mint mark. A circulated coin is typically worth between $0.10 and $1.00. Uncirculated coins can range from $5 to over $1,000 for high-grade examples with the "Red" (RD) designation.
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Are there any rare varieties of the 1936 Wheat Penny?
- Yes, the 1936 Wheat Penny has a notable variety: the 1936 Doubled Die Obverse. These are rare and can be worth significantly more, ranging from $50 in lower grades to several thousand dollars in high grades.
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How can I identify a 1936 Doubled Die Obverse Wheat Penny?
- The 1936 Doubled Die Obverse Wheat Penny displays noticeable doubling on the date, the word "LIBERTY," and the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST." A magnifying glass or microscope can help in identifying this variety.
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What is the highest grade for a 1936 Wheat Penny?
- The highest grade for a 1936 Wheat Penny is typically MS67 or MS68, with the "Red" (RD) designation being the most sought after. Coins in these grades can fetch high prices at auctions.
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What are the mint marks for the 1936 Wheat Penny?
- The 1936 Wheat Penny was minted in three locations: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D mint mark), and San Francisco (S mint mark).
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How many 1936 Wheat Pennies were minted?
- In 1936, the Philadelphia Mint produced approximately 309,632,000 pennies, the Denver Mint produced about 40,620,000 pennies, and the San Francisco Mint produced around 29,130,000 pennies.
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What makes a 1936 Wheat Penny valuable?
- Factors that make a 1936 Wheat Penny valuable include its condition (grade), mint mark, rarity of any error varieties (such as the Doubled Die Obverse), and whether it has the "Red" (RD) designation.
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Where can I sell a 1936 Wheat Penny?
- You can sell a 1936 Wheat Penny through various channels, including coin dealers, auction houses, online marketplaces (such as eBay), and coin shows. Having the coin graded by a professional service can help maximize its value.
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How do I preserve the condition of my 1936 Wheat Penny?
- To preserve the condition of your 1936 Wheat Penny, store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in a coin holder or capsule to protect it from handling, moisture, and environmental factors. Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can reduce its value.
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What are the key characteristics to look for in a high-grade 1936 Wheat Penny?
- In a high-grade 1936 Wheat Penny, look for sharp details in Lincoln’s portrait, clear and distinct lines on the wheat stalks, and minimal wear or contact marks. The "Red" (RD) designation indicates that the coin has retained much of its original copper color, which adds to its value.
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