1957 Wheat Penny
The 1957 Wheat Penny is a U.S. cent featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and wheat stalks on the reverse. Made from 95% copper, it is part of the final years of the Wheat Penny series before the transition to the Lincoln Memorial design in 1959. Collectors appreciate the 1957 Wheat Penny for its classic design and its role as one of the last coins in the series. Continue reading to learn more about 1957 wheat penny.
The 1957 Wheat Penny had a total mintage of over 282 million coins struck at the Philadelphia Mint. The 1957 Lincoln Cent is relatively easy to find in circulated and uncirculated grades, although it can sometimes be more difficult to find in some of the highest Mint State grades. When looking for a 1957 Wheat Penny, look with care to find a coin that is well-struck, has attractive surfaces, and nice details.
AUCTION RECORD: $2,280 • MS64BN
Image source: PCGS
1957 Wheat Penny value
As of 2024, the value of a 1957 Wheat Penny generally ranges from $0.10 to $2 in circulated condition. Uncirculated examples can be worth between $2 and $10 or more, depending on their quality and mint mark. The coin’s value is influenced by its condition, rarity, and demand among collectors.
History of the 1957 Wheat Penny
The 1957 Wheat Penny would make a great addition to any Lincoln Cent series collection. It’s possible to find Full Red versions of the coin, although they often come at a premium. 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.
1957 Wheat Penny Worth
The 1957 Wheat Penny value ranges from around two thousand dollars to twelve thousand dollars depending on the coloring and grade of the coin. The Wheat Penny comes in colors ranging from brown to a red and brown to a red version, with the red variety commanding higher prices under most circumstances. The 1957 Wheat Penny is worth the effort to find. If you’re looking to build a circulated collection of the Wheat Penny, it’s possible to do so for only a few hundred dollars.
Type of coin: Penny
Year: 1957 Wheat Penny
Wheat Penny Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Total mintage: 282,540,000
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
FAQ
What is a 1957 Wheat Penny?
A 1957 Wheat Penny is a United States one-cent coin featuring the profile of President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two wheat stalks surrounding the words "ONE CENT" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" on the reverse. It's part of the Wheat Penny series, which ran until 1958.
How can I identify a 1957 Wheat Penny?
You can identify a 1957 Wheat Penny by looking at the date below Abraham Lincoln's bust on the obverse side. The reverse side will feature two wheat ears, which is characteristic of all Wheat Pennies.
Are there any rare variants of the 1957 Wheat Penny?
The most sought-after variants of the 1957 Wheat Penny include the 1957-D (minted in Denver) doubled die obverse, where the date and inscriptions show noticeable doubling. These are relatively rare and highly valued by collectors.
What makes the 1957 Wheat Penny valuable?
The value of a 1957 Wheat Penny is primarily determined by its condition and rarity of errors, such as the doubled die obverse. Most 1957 pennies are common, but those in uncirculated condition or with errors can be more valuable.
How much is a 1957 Wheat Penny worth?
A standard 1957 Wheat Penny in circulated condition is worth only a few cents above its face value. However, uncirculated examples, especially those with mint errors like the doubled die, can fetch higher prices.
Where can I find a 1957 Wheat Penny?
1957 Wheat Pennies can be found in old coin collections, estate sales, from coin dealers, and online auctions. They occasionally appear in circulation, though this is increasingly rare.
How many 1957 Wheat Pennies were minted?
In 1957, there were two minting locations: Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (D mint mark). Philadelphia minted over 282 million pennies, while Denver produced over 1.05 billion.
What is the composition of the 1957 Wheat Penny?
The 1957 Wheat Penny is made of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, consistent with the composition of Wheat Pennies since 1944.
How should I store my 1957 Wheat Penny collection?
Your 1957 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.