1945 Wheat Penny
The 1945 Wheat Penny is a U.S. cent featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and wheat stalks on the reverse. Minted after World War II, it is valued by collectors for its historical context and design. Collectibility is influenced by factors such as mint mark, condition, and rarity, with well-preserved examples being particularly sought after among numismatists. The 1945 Wheat Penny can be difficult to find in some of the highest grades of the coin, possibly due to many of them going into circulation rather than being saved by the lower like many that have a lower mintage. Continue reading to learn more about 1945 wheat penny value.
AUCTION RECORD: $1,000 • NGC Genuine
Image source: PCGS
History of the 1945 Wheat Penny
The 1945 Wheat Penny is a unique coin due to the enormous mintage and also the scarcity of finding higher Mint State grades of the coin. This one can go for a higher price if found in higher grades. 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.
1945 Wheat Penny Worth
The 1945 Wheat Penny value ranges from around one thousand dollars to upwards of four thousand dollars depending on the grade and coloring of the coin. The Wheat Penny comes in colors ranging from brown to brown-red to red. The full red versions of the coin typically command higher prices. The 1945 Wheat Penny would make a great addition to any Lincoln Cent series collection.
Type of coin: Penny
Year: 1945 Wheat Penny
Wheat Penny Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Total mintage: 1,040,515,000
Metal content: 95% Copper, 5% Zinc
Face value: 1 cent
Weight: 3.11 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: Victor David Brenner
Diameter: 19.00 millimeters
1945 Wheat Penny Value
As of 2024, the value of a 1945 Wheat Penny typically ranges from $0.10 to $5.00 in circulated condition. Uncirculated examples can be worth between $5 and $20 or more, depending on their quality and mint mark. The coin’s value is influenced by its condition, rarity, and demand among collectors.
The value of a 1945 Wheat Penny varies based on its condition and color. Typically, these pennies range in value from a few cents for circulated coins to potentially several thousand dollars for those in mint condition or with unique characteristics. Higher-grade examples, especially those with a red or near-red coloration, command the highest prices among collectors, often reaching values between one thousand to fourteen thousand dollars. The 1945 Wheat Penny series is prized for its accessibility and historical significance, making it a favored choice for both new and seasoned numismatists looking to enhance their collections.
FAQ
What is the average value of a 1945 Wheat Penny?
The average value of a 1945 Wheat Penny in circulated condition ranges from 10 to 20 cents, but in uncirculated condition, it can be worth thousands of dollars.
Are there any rare 1945 Wheat Pennies?
While most 1945 Wheat Pennies are not rare, certain mint error coins or those in exceptionally high grades can be valuable.
What factors influence the value of a 1945 Wheat Penny?
Condition, mint mark, and rarity of mint errors significantly influence the value of a 1945 Wheat Penny.
How much is a 1945 Wheat Penny worth with no mint mark?
A 1945 Wheat Penny with no mint mark, indicating it was minted in Philadelphia, typically ranges from 10 to 20 cents in circulated condition and can be worth more in higher grades.
What is the highest recorded sale price for a 1945 Wheat Penny?
High-grade 1945 Wheat Pennies, especially those with errors, can fetch several hundred dollars, but specific sale prices can vary widely based on condition and market demand.
Can the condition of a 1945 Wheat Penny greatly affect its value?
Yes, the condition can greatly affect its value, with uncirculated or higher grade coins being worth significantly more than those in circulated condition.
What mint marks are found on 1945 Wheat Pennies, and how do they affect value?
1945 Wheat Pennies can have "D" (Denver) or "S" (San Francisco) mint marks, or no mint mark for Philadelphia. Coins from Denver or San Francisco can sometimes be more valuable than those from Philadelphia.
Is a 1945 Wheat Penny made of steel?
No, 1945 Wheat Pennies are not made of steel; they are made of bronze. The steel pennies were only produced in 1943.
How can I verify if my 1945 Wheat Penny is authentic and valuable?
Authenticity and value can be verified through professional grading services, which assess the coin’s condition, authenticity, and provide a market value.
What is a 1945 Steel Wheat Penny, and is it valuable?
A 1945 Steel Wheat Penny would be extremely rare and likely a product of mint error, making it very valuable. However, no official steel pennies were minted in 1945.
What should I do if I find a 1945 Wheat Penny?
Assess the coin’s condition, check for a mint mark, and consult with a coin expert or professional grading service to determine its value.
How does a 1945 Wheat Penny compare in value to other Wheat Pennies from the 1940s?
The 1945 Wheat Penny is generally common and less valuable compared to key date Wheat Pennies like the 1943 copper or 1944 steel pennies, but its value can increase with higher grades or rare errors.
What errors should I look for in a 1945 Wheat Penny?
Look for doubled die errors, off-center strikes, or any other minting anomalies that can increase the coin’s value.
How many 1945 Wheat Pennies were minted?
Over a billion 1945 Wheat Pennies were minted across the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints, making them quite common.
Where is the best place to sell a 1945 Wheat Penny?
The best place to sell a 1945 Wheat Penny would be through reputable coin dealers like Bullion Shark, auctions, online marketplaces, or coin shows, where collectors are likely to pay fair market value.
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