1957 D Wheat Penny
The 1957 D Wheat Penny is a U.S. cent featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and wheat stalks on the reverse, with a 'D' mint mark indicating it was minted in Denver. Made from 95% copper, it is part of the final years of the Wheat Penny series before the design changed to the Lincoln Memorial in 1959. Collectors appreciate the 1957 D Wheat Penny for its historical significance and classic design. Continue reading to learn more about 1957 D Wheat penny.
AUCTION RECORD: $322
Image source: PCGS
The 1957-D Wheat Penny had a total mintage of over 1 billion coins. This is the second year that the Denver Mint struck over a billion coins, which is an astronomical amount of coins. The 1957-D Wheat Penny is relatively easy to find in most circulated and uncirculated grades. Although it can be difficult to find in some of the highest Mint State grades, likely because most of the coin went out into circulation upon release.
History of the 1957-D Wheat Penny
When searching for your ideal 1957-D Wheat Penny, cherrypicking is advised. Look to see if the coin has any carbon spotting. The most attractive, high-grade coins are usually spot-free with a sharp strike, and excellent details. The color is typically a full-blazing red, as well. 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.
1957-D Wheat Penny Worth
The 1957 D Wheat Penny value ranges from a few hundred dollars to upwards of six thousand dollars for the highest grade coins. This makes the 1957-D Wheat Penny relatively affordable, even for the serious collector. The Wheat Penny comes in colors ranging from a brown coloring to red and brown and then on to the full red versions that typically cost more than the other colors.
Type of coin: Penny
Year: 1957-D Wheat Penny
Wheat Penny Mint Mark: Denver
Total mintage: 1,051,342,000
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
1957 D Wheat Penny Value
The value of a 1957 D Wheat Penny can vary significantly based on its condition, any unique characteristics, and the current market demand among collectors. In general, most 1957 D Wheat Pennies are considered common among collectors, as they were produced in large quantities. However, their value can still range from a few cents for coins in circulated condition to several dollars for those in uncirculated condition with a high grade. Exceptionally rare varieties or error coins can be worth more.
The most money paid for a 1957 D Wheat Penny is typically for coins in exceptional condition or those with rare errors. While it's difficult to pinpoint a single highest sale price without access to the latest auction results, high-grade examples of the 1957 D Wheat Penny, especially those graded MS-67 or higher by reputable grading services like PCGS or NGC, can fetch several hundred dollars.
For instance, a 1957 D Wheat Penny in MS-67+ (plus) condition might be valued at or above $1,000, depending on the market demand and the coin's eye appeal. However, prices can vary widely, and exceptional pieces with unique characteristics or provenance can exceed these estimates.
Error coins, such as those with significant doubling, off-center strikes, or other minting anomalies, can also command high prices, potentially outpacing even the highest-graded regular issues due to their rarity and uniqueness among collectors.
FAQ
What is the 1957 D Wheat Penny value?
A 1957 D Wheat Penny is generally worth around 5 cents in circulated condition and can be worth several hundred dollars in uncirculated condition.
How rare is a 1957 D Wheat Penny?
The 1957 D Wheat Penny is not particularly rare due to its high mintage, but high-grade examples and those with errors can be more valuable.
What factors influence the value of a 1957 D Wheat Penny?
The coin's condition, grade, and presence of any minting errors primarily influence its value.
What is the highest recorded sale price for a 1957 D Wheat Penny?
High-grade or rare error coins have fetched significant prices, with some sales reaching thousands of dollars.
Does the condition of a 1957 D Wheat Penny significantly affect its value?
Yes, the better the condition and the higher the grade, the more valuable the coin is likely to be.
Are there any known errors on 1957 D Wheat Pennies that make them more valuable?
Yes, errors like re-punched mint marks or double dies can increase the value of these pennies.
How can I determine if my 1957 D Wheat Penny is valuable?
Examine the coin's condition, look for errors, and consult a reputable coin grading service or a numismatic expert.
What is the average selling price of a 1957 D Wheat Penny?
The selling price can vary, with circulated coins often worth just a few cents, while uncirculated or error coins can command higher prices.
What makes the 1957 D Wheat Penny unique compared to other Wheat Pennies?
Its mintage year and potential errors can make it unique, along with its condition and market demand.
Can a 1957 D Wheat Penny be a good investment?
For collectors, high-grade examples or those with rare errors can be considered good investments.
What should I do if I find a 1957 D Wheat Penny?
Assess its condition, check for any unique features or errors, and consider having it appraised by a professional.
Where is the best place to sell a 1957 D Wheat Penny?
Coin dealers, numismatic auctions, and online platforms are good places to sell, especially if the coin is rare or in high-grade condition.
What historical significance does the 1957 D Wheat Penny hold?
It represents one of the last years of the Wheat Penny series, making it a piece of numismatic history.
Are there any special collecting tips for 1957 D Wheat Pennies?
Focus on finding coins in the best possible condition, and be on the lookout for rare errors that can increase their value.
How does the 1957 D Wheat Penny fit into the overall Wheat Penny collection?
As one of the final years of the Wheat Penny series, it's a crucial part of completing a collection of Lincoln Wheat Cents.
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