1958 Wheat Penny
The 1958 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 one of the last coins in the Wheat Penny series before the design was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial design in 1959. Collectors value the 1958 Wheat Penny for its place in the series' history and its classic design. Continue reading to learn more about 1958 wheat penny value.
The 1958 Wheat Penny had a total mintage of over 252 million coins from the Philadelphia Mint. While this is a large mintage, the 1958 Wheat Penny can be difficult to find in the highest grades, which is common among many in the Wheat Penny series. The 1958 Wheat Penny can be found with a sharp strike and nice details, and cherrypicking is advised to find your ideal example.
AUCTION RECORD: $336,000 • MS64RD
Image source: PCGS
History of the 1958 Wheat Penny
The 1958 Wheat Penny remains a significant piece of American coinage. It represents one of the final years of the Wheat cent design, initially introduced in 1909 by Victor David Brenner. The coin's reverse side depicts two wheat stalks, a symbol of national prosperity. 1958 precedes the 1959 introduction of the Lincoln Memorial reverse. Pennies were minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver ("D" mint mark).
The coin's collectibility stems from its place in the Wheat cent series and its historical context. Collectors seek to complete sets, making the 1958 examples desirable. Value depends on the coin's condition. Uncirculated examples command higher prices than circulated ones. Color, specifically red, red-brown, and brown, also impacts value, with red being the most valuable.
1958 Wheat Penny Worth
The 1958 Wheat Penny value ranges from around two thousand dollars to nine thousand dollars for the highest grades of the coin. The Wheat Penny can be found in colors ranging from brown to brown and red to a full red version. The red varieties, usually ones that are spot-free and well-struck, are the most desirable and command the highest prices. The 1958 Wheat Penny would make an excellent addition to any Wheat Penny series collection.
The 1958 Wheat Penny is possible to find in full red Mint State versions, oftentimes with a higher price to match. 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.
Type of coin: Penny
Year: 1958 Wheat Penny
Wheat Penny Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Total mintage: 252,525,000
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
1958 Penny Error Values
Errors, such as doubled dies, occur in 1958 Wheat Pennies. These errors increase a coin's value. Other errors include off-center strikes and clipped planchets. Authentication by a grading service is important for error evaluation.
The value of a 1958 Wheat Penny varies with condition and errors. Circulated coins have minimal value. Uncirculated coins, especially red examples, have higher values. Error coins can achieve high prices at auction. A 1958 red doubled die obverse, graded MS64, sold for a significant amount in 2018. Coin values fluctuate. Grade, color, and errors determine a coin's worth. A coin dealer or grading service can provide accurate assessments.
General Value Factors:
- Condition:
- Circulated 1958 Wheat Pennies are typically worth only a few cents.
- Uncirculated examples, particularly those graded MS (Mint State) 65 or higher, command higher prices.
- "RD" (Red) designation signifies a coin with a high percentage of its original copper color, which is highly desirable.
- Errors:
- Doubled die errors significantly increase value.
- Other errors, like off-center strikes, also affect price.
- Mint Mark:
- Both Philadelphia (no mint mark 1958 penny) and Denver ("D") mint marks exist.
Notable Auction Information:
- It is important to understand that when looking at auction records, that the grading of the coin is very important.
- High Value Examples:
- Reports indicate that a 1958 red doubled die obverse, graded MS64, has sold for very high prices, with one example selling for $336,000 in 2018. This highlights the potential value of rare error coins.
- To find up to date auction information, websites like the PCGS and NGC auction central sites are very helpful.
- General Auction Trends:
- Websites like PCGS and NGC provide auction data that can be helpful in understanding general trends. For example, you can find records of various sales of 1958 D wheat pennies in various grades, and see the amounts that they sold for.
- It is possible to find records of 1958 wheat pennies in MS67 red grades selling for prices ranging from a couple of hundred dollars, to a couple of thousand dollars, depending on the specific auction.
- It is important to keep in mind that the coin market is subject to change.
Where to Find More Information:
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service): Provides auction price data and coin information.
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation): Offers similar resources to PCGS.
When considering the value of a 1958 Wheat Penny, it's essential to consult reputable sources and, if possible, seek professional appraisal.
FAQ
What is a 1958 Wheat Penny?
The 1958 Wheat Penny is a United States one-cent piece that features the Lincoln bust on the obverse and two wheat ears on the reverse. It represents the final year of the Wheat Penny design before transitioning to the Lincoln Memorial design in 1959.
How can I identify a 1958 Wheat Penny?
A 1958 Wheat Penny can be identified by the Lincoln bust on the obverse side and the distinctive wheat ears on the reverse. The year "1958" is prominently displayed below Lincoln's shoulder.
Are there any rare variants of the 1958 Wheat Penny?
The most notable variant of the 1958 Wheat Penny is the 1958 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO). This error coin features noticeable doubling on the date and inscriptions on the obverse side, making it highly sought after by collectors.
What makes the 1958 Wheat Penny valuable?
The value of a 1958 Wheat Penny is primarily determined by its condition and whether it is a rare doubled die variety. Most 1958 pennies are common, but those in uncirculated condition or with errors can be more valuable.
How much is a 1958 Wheat Penny worth?
The value of a standard 1958 Wheat Penny in circulated condition is typically only a few cents above face value. However, uncirculated examples or those with the doubled die error can fetch significantly higher prices.
Where can I find a 1958 Wheat Penny?
1958 Wheat Pennies can be found in old coin collections, estate sales, coin dealerships, and online auctions. They can occasionally be found in circulation, though this is less common.
How many 1958 Wheat Pennies were minted?
In 1958, there were two mint locations for the Wheat Penny: Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (D mint mark). Philadelphia minted over 252 million pennies, while Denver produced over 800 million.
What is the composition of the 1958 Wheat Penny?
The 1958 Wheat Penny is made of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, following the standard composition for Lincoln Wheat Pennies at the time.
Can a 1958 Wheat Penny be a good investment?
While most 1958 Wheat Pennies are common and not particularly valuable, high-grade examples, especially those with errors like the doubled die, can be a good investment for coin collectors.
How should I store my 1958 Wheat Penny collection?
Store your 1958 Wheat Penny collection in a cool, dry place, ideally in acid-free holders, albums, or sleeves designed for coin storage. This protects the coins from environmental damage and preserves their condition.
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