1956 D Wheat Penny
The 1956-D Wheat Penny had a massive total mintage of over 1 billion coins struck at the Denver Mint. This was one of the largest mintages at the Denver Mint. The 1956-D Wheat Penny is common and can be found in most circulated and many uncirculated grades. The higher the grades, the more scarce the coin becomes. But it is still relatively easy to find in many of the higher Mint State grades, which keeps the prices more affordable for even serious collectors.
AUCTION RECORD: $18,000 • MS67+RD
Image source: PCGS
History of the 1956-D Wheat Penny
The 1956-D Wheat Penny would make a great addition to any Lincoln Cent series collection. Cherrypicking is advised to ensure a well-struck coin with nice details. 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, with the D mint mark under the date. The reverse features two stalks of durum wheat.
1956-D Wheat Penny Worth
The 1956-D Wheat Penny value ranges from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars to upwards of seven thousand dollars for the highest grade red versions. The Wheat Penny comes in colors ranging from brown to brown and red to a red variety, with the red versions typically commanding higher prices than the others. The Wheat Penny series is an affordable series for those looking to build a circulated grade coin collection for only a few hundred dollars, while also offering value for the serious collector.
Type of coin: Penny
Year: 1956-D Wheat Penny
Wheat Penny Mint Mark: Denver
Total mintage: 1,098,201,100
Metal content: 95% Copper, 5% Zinc and Tin
Face value: 1 cent
Weight: 3.11 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: Victor David Brenner
Diameter: 19.00 millimeters
FAQ
What is a 1956 D Wheat Penny?
A 1956 D Wheat Penny is a United States one-cent coin produced by the Denver Mint, as indicated by the "D" mint mark. It features the iconic Lincoln profile on the obverse and the wheat ears design on the reverse, characteristic of the Wheat Penny series.
How can I identify a 1956 D Wheat Penny?
You can identify a 1956 D Wheat Penny by examining the coin's obverse for the profile of Abraham Lincoln and the year 1956. The "D" mint mark, located below the date, signifies its Denver Mint origin. The reverse side will have the wheat ears design.
Are there any rare variants of the 1956 D Wheat Penny?
While the 1956 D Wheat Penny is generally considered common, certain error coins, such as those with repunched mint marks or doubled dies, are sought after by collectors and can be more valuable.
What makes the 1956 D Wheat Penny valuable?
The value of a 1956 D Wheat Penny is primarily determined by its condition, with uncirculated coins or those with significant errors being more valuable. Most circulated 1956 D pennies are common and have modest values.
How much is a 1956 D Wheat Penny worth?
A standard 1956 D Wheat Penny in circulated condition typically holds nominal value above its face value. However, uncirculated examples or coins with errors can fetch higher prices, especially in the eyes of specific collectors.
Where can I find a 1956 D Wheat Penny?
1956 D Wheat Pennies can be found in old coin collections, estate sales, from coin dealers, and online auctions. They may also occasionally appear in circulation, though this is increasingly rare.
How many 1956 D Wheat Pennies were minted?
The Denver Mint produced over 1 billion 1956 D Wheat Pennies, making it one of the most common dates for Wheat Pennies. This high mintage contributes to its availability on the market today.
What is the composition of the 1956 D Wheat Penny?
The 1956 D Wheat Penny is made of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, following the standard composition for Lincoln Wheat Pennies during that period.
Can a 1956 D Wheat Penny be a good investment?
While most 1956 D Wheat Pennies are not rare and carry modest values, high-grade examples or those with significant errors can be a good investment for collectors focusing on condition and rarity.
How should I store my 1956 D Wheat Penny collection?
Your 1956 D Wheat Penny collection should be stored in a cool, dry place, ideally in acid-free holders, albums, or sleeves designed for coin storage. Proper storage helps protect the coins from environmental damage and preserves their condition.
Learn more about: 1957-D Wheat Penny, 1956 Wheat Penny, 1955 Wheat Penny, 1954 Wheat Penny, 1953 Wheat Penny, 1956-D Wheat Penny, 1955-S Wheat Penny, 1954-D Wheat Penny, 1892-1915 Barber Half Dollar, 1930-P Standing Liberty Quarter, 1837-1873 Seated Half Dime, 90% Silver Mercury Dime Roll, 1909 VDB Lincoln Penny, 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, 1883 No Cents V Nickel, Indian Head Cent Roll, 1958 wheat penny value.