null
Categories

Wheat Penny Value

 wheat-penny-obverse.pngwheat-penny-reverse.png

The Wheat Penny or Lincoln Wheat Penny was originally released on August 2, 1909. People were intrigued about their new cent coin because the mint did not release any pictures of the Lincoln Cent before the release of the actual coin. The mint sent out what was believed to be a sufficient amount of Lincoln Wheat Pennies, but the morning of August 2 proved their predictions to be astoundingly wrong. With long lines outside of each treasury to buy the new Lincoln cent the U.S. Mint was overwhelmed!

The Lincoln Cent's obverse design consisted of a profile of President Lincoln, the side profile was inspired by a photo taken on February 9, 1864. On the reverse of the coin a wheat stock was featured on each side and the words “ ONE CENT” were in-scripted. The wheat stock featured on the coin is the reason why the Lincoln Cent coin got its other name, the Wheat Penny. The designer of the Lincoln Wheat Penny was Victor D. Berner.

The Wheat penny was minted from 1909-1958 in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. Some of these Lincoln cents were also minted in 1909 with the initials “VDB” for the designer of the coin. If someone were to have this rare version of the Lincoln cent these initials will be found on the bottom of the reverse of the coin. 

Wheat Penny Value

Many collectors throughout the United States collect Lincoln Cents. The main reason for this is affordability. Complete sets of the Lincoln Pennies can often be put together for only a couple hundred dollars in circulated quality. Some collectors look to spend a little more money and put together a certified Lincoln Penny set graded either by NGC or PCGS. The key dates in the Lincoln Penny series are the following:

-1909 S VDB Wheat Penny

-1909 S Wheat Penny

-1914-D Wheat Penny

-1922 D No D Wheat Penny

-1924 D Wheat Penny

-1931 S Wheat Penny

Wheat Penny Mintages and Values

Date   Mintage Good Very Fine Extremely Fine Uncirculated
1909 Wheat Penny (VDB) 27,995,000 $15.00 $18.00 $19.00 $25.00
1909-S Wheat Penny  (VDB) 484,000 $600.00 $725.00 $850.00 $1,200.00
1909 Wheat Penny  72,702,618 $4.00 $7.00 $8.00 $17.00
1909-S Wheat Penny  1,825,000 $80.00 $130.00 $150.00 $300.00
1910 Wheat Penny  146,801,218 $0.35 $1.50 $4.00 $18.00
1910-S Wheat Penny  6,045,000 $17.00 $25.00 $45.00 $100.00
1911 Wheat Penny  101,177,787 $0.45 $2.50 $6.00 $21.00
1911-D Wheat Penny  12,672,000 $6.00 $20.00 $50.00 $95.00
1911-S Wheat Penny  4,026,000 $35.00 $60.00 $75.00 $185.00
1912 Wheat Penny  68,153,060 $1.25 $5.50 $1.00 $35.00
1912-D Wheat Penny  10,411,000 $7.00 $25.00 $65.00 $170.00
1912-S Wheat Penny  4,431,000 $20.00 $40.00 $75.00 $180.00
1913 Wheat Penny  76,532,352 $0.85 $4.00 $18.00 $35.00
1913-D Wheat Penny  15,804,000 $3.00 $10.00 $50.00 $110.00
1913-S Wheat Penny  6,101,000 $10.00 $30.00 $60.00 $175.00
1914 Wheat Penny  75,238,432 $0.75 $6.00 $20.00 $55.00
1914-D Wheat Penny  1,193,000 $150.00 $250.00 $700.00 $2,000.00
1914-S Wheat Penny  4,137,000 $20.00 $40.00 $85.00 $325.00
1915 Wheat Penny  29,092,120 $1.75 $18.00 $60.00 $90.00
1915-D Wheat Penny  22,050,000 $2.00 $7.00 $22.00 $85.00
1915-S Wheat Penny  4,833,000 $20.00 $35.00 $70.00 $200.00
1916 Wheat Penny  131,833,677 $0.30 $2.00 $8.00 $18.00
1916-D Wheat Penny  35,956,000 $1.00 $6.00 $15.00 $75.00
1916-S Wheat Penny  22,510,000 $1.75 $8.00 $25.00 $105.00
1917 Wheat Penny  196,429,785 $0.30 $2.00 $4.00 $16.00
1917-D Wheat Penny  55,120,000 $0.80 $4.50 $35.00 $80.00
1917-S Wheat Penny  32,620,000 $0.50 $2.50 $10.00 $75.00
1918 Wheat Penny  288,104,634 $0.20 $1.50 $3.00 $16.00
1918-D Wheat Penny  47,830,000 $0.75 $4.00 $12.00 $80.00
1918-S Wheat Penny  34,680,000 $0.50 $3.00 $11.00 $80.00
1919 Wheat Penny  392,021,000 $0.20 $1.00 $3.25 $14.00
1919-D Wheat Penny  57,154,000 $0.50 $4.00 $10.00 $65.00
1919-S Wheat Penny  139,760,000 $0.20 $2.00 $6.00 $50.00
1920 Wheat Penny  310,165,000 $0.20 $0.50 $2.25 $15.00
1920-D Wheat Penny  49,280,000 $1.00 $0.50 $19.00 $80.00
1920-S Wheat Penny  46,220,000 $0.50 $2.25 $10.00 $110.00
1921 Wheat Penny  39,157,000 $0.50 $2.10 $9.00 $50.00
1921-S Wheat Penny  15,274,000 $1.50 $7.00 $35.00 $135.00
1922-D Wheat Penny  7,160,000 $20.00 $27.00 $40.00 $110.00
1923 Wheat Penny  74,723,000 $0.35 $1.00 $5.00 $15.00
1923-S Wheat Penny  8,700,000 $5.00 $12.00 $40.00 $220.00
1924 Wheat Penny  75,178,000 $0.20 $0.85 $5.00 $24.00
1924-D Wheat Penny  2,520,000 $40.00 $60.00 $125.00 $300.00
1924-S Wheat Penny  11,696,000 $2.00 $5.50 $20.00 $125.00
1925 Wheat Penny  139,949,000 $0.20 $0.60 $3.00 $10.00
1925-D Wheat Penny  22,580,000 $1.00 $0.60 $13.00 $75.00
1925-S Wheat Penny  26,380,000 $1.00 $5.00 $12.00 $90.00
1926 Wheat Penny  157,088,000 $0.20 $4.00 $2.00 $8.00
1926-D Wheat Penny  28,020,000 $1.35 $0.50 $14.00 $85.00
1926-S Wheat Penny  4,550,000 $9.00 $5.25 $35.00 $155.00
1927 Wheat Penny  144,440,000 $0.20 $17.00 $2.00 $10.00
1927-D Wheat Penny  27,170,000 $1.25 $0.60 $7.50 $62.00
1927-S Wheat Penny  14,276,000 $1.50 $3.75 $15.00 $85.00
1928 Wheat Penny  134,116,000 $0.20 $5.00 $2.00 $9.00
1928-D Wheat Penny  31,170,000 $0.75 $0.60 $5.50 $37.00
1928-S Wheat Penny  17,266,000 $1.00 $3.00 $9.50 $75.00
1929 Wheat Penny  185,262,000 $0.20 $3.75 $2.00 $8.00
1929-D Wheat Penny  41,730,000 $0.40 $0.75 $5.50 $25.00
1929-S Wheat Penny  50,148,000 $0.50 $2.25 $5.80 $21.00
1930 Wheat Penny  157,415,000 $0.12 $0.50 $1.25 $6.00
1930-D Wheat Penny  40,100,000 $0.20 $0.55 $2.50 $12.00
1930-S Wheat Penny  24,286,000 $0.20 $0.60 $1.75 $10.00
1931 Wheat Penny  19,396,000 $0.50 $1.50 $4.00 $20.00
1931-D Wheat Penny  4,480,000 $5.00 $8.50 $13.50 $60.00
1931-S Wheat Penny  866,000 $60.00 $100.00 $125.00 $175.00
1932 Wheat Penny  9,062,000 $1.50 $2.50 $4.50 $20.00
1932-D Wheat Penny  10,500,000 $1.50 $2.75 $4.50 $19.00
1933 Wheat Penny  14,360,000 $1.50 $3.00 $6.25 $20.00
1933-D Wheat Penny  6,200,000 $3.50 $7.25 $12.00 $23.00
1934 Wheat Penny  219,080,000 $0.12 $0.30 $1.00 $7.00
1934-D Wheat Penny  28,446,000 $0.20 $0.75 $2.25 $20.00
1935 Wheat Penny  245,388,000 $0.15 $0.25 $0.50 $3.00
1935-D Wheat Penny  47,000,000 $0.15 $0.25 $0.50 $5.00
1935-S Wheat Penny  38,702,000 $0.15 $0.50 $2.00 $12.00
1936 Wheat Penny  309,632,000 $0.15 $0.50 $1.50 $3.00
1936-D Wheat Penny  40,620,000 $0.15 $0.50 $1.00 $3.00
1936-S Wheat Penny  29,130,000 $0.15 $0.55 $1.00 $5.00
1937 Wheat Penny  309,170,000 $0.15 $0.50 $1.00 $3.00
1937-D Wheat Penny  50,430,000 $0.15 $0.40 $1.00 $5.00
1937-S Wheat Penny  34,500,000 $0.15 $0.40 $1.00 $5.00
1938 Wheat Penny  156,682,000 $0.15 $0.40 $1.00 $4.00
1938-D Wheat Penny  20,010,000 $0.20 $0.80 $1.25 $4.00
1938-S Wheat Penny  15,180,000 $0.40 $0.75 $1.10 $4.00
1939 Wheat Penny  316,466,000 $0.15 $0.25 $0.50 $2.00
1939-D Wheat Penny  15,160,000 $0.50 $0.85 $1.25 $4.00
1939-S Wheat Penny  52,070,000 $0.15 $0.75 $1.00 $3.00
1940 Wheat Penny  586,810,000 $0.15 $0.40 $0.60 $2.00
1940-D Wheat Penny  81,390,000 $0.15 $0.60 $0.75 $3.00
1940-S Wheat Penny  112,940,000 $0.15 $0.50 $1.00 $3.00
1941 Wheat Penny  887,018,000 $0.15 $0.30 $0.60 $2.00
1941-D Wheat Penny  128,700,000 $0.15 $0.50 $1.00 $4.00
1941-S Wheat Penny  92,360,000 $0.15 $0.50 $1.00 $4.00
1942 Wheat Penny  657,796,000 $0.15 $0.25 $0.50 $1.00
1942-D Wheat Penny  206,698,000 $0.15 $0.25 $0.50 $1.00
1942-S Wheat Penny  85,590,000 $0.20 $0.85 $1.25 $7.00
1944 Wheat Penny  1,435,400,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1944-D Wheat Penny  430,578,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1944-S Wheat Penny  282,760,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1945 Wheat Penny  1,040,515,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1945-D Wheat Penny  266,268,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1945-S Wheat Penny  121,770,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1946 Wheat Penny  991,655,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1946-D Wheat Penny  315,690,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1946-S Wheat Penny  198,100,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1947 Wheat Penny  190,555,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1947-D Wheat Penny  194,750,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1947-S Wheat Penny  99,000,000 N/A $0.25 $0.25 N/A
1948 Wheat Penny  317,570,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1948-D Wheat Penny  172,637,500 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1948-S Wheat Penny  81,735,000 N/A $0.30 $0.30 N/A
1949 Wheat Penny  217,775,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1949-D Wheat Penny  153,132,500 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1949-S Wheat Penny  64,290,000 N/A $0.30 $0.30 N/A
1950 Wheat Penny  272,635,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1950-D Wheat Penny  334,950,000 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1950-S Wheat Penny  118,505,000 N/A $0.25 $0.25 N/A
1951 Wheat Penny  284,576,000 N/A $0.25 $0.25 N/A
1951-D Wheat Penny  625,355,000 N/A $0.12 $0.12 N/A
1951-S Wheat Penny  136,010,000 N/A $0.30 $0.30 N/A
1952 Wheat Penny 186,775,000 N/A $0.15 $0.15 N/A
1952-D Wheat Penny  746,130,000 N/A $0.15 $0.15 N/A
1952-S Wheat Penny  137,800,004 N/A $0.20 $0.20 N/A
1953 Wheat Penny  256,755,000 N/A $0.15 $0.15 N/A
1953-D Wheat Penny  700,515,000 N/A $0.15 $0.15 N/A
1953-S Wheat Penny  181,835,000 N/A $0.15 $0.15 N/A
1954 Wheat Penny  71,640,050 N/A $0.35 $0.35 N/A
1954-D Wheat Penny  251,552,500 N/A $0.12 $0.12 N/A
1954-S Wheat Penny  96,190,000 N/A $0.12 $0.12 N/A
1955 Wheat Penny  330,958,200 N/A $0.10 $0.12 N/A
1955-D Wheat Penny  263,257,500 N/A $0.10 $0.12 N/A
1955-S Wheat Penny  44,610,000 N/A $0.20 $0.12 N/A
1956 Wheat Penny  420,745,000 N/A $0.10 $0.12 N/A
1956-D Wheat Penny  1,098,201,100 N/A $0.10 $0.12 N/A
1957 Wheat Penny  282,540,000 N/A $0.10 $0.12 N/A
1957-D Wheat Penny  1,051,342,000 N/A $0.10 $0.12 N/A
1958 Wheat Penny  252,525,000 N/A $0.10 $0.12 N/A
1958-D Wheat Penny  800,953,300 N/A $0.10 $0.12

N/A

1959 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1960 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1961 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1962 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1963 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1964 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1964-D Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1966 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1967 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1968 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1968 D penny - Memorial Reverse          
1969 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1969 D Penny - Memorial Reverse          

1970 Penny - Memorial Reverse

         
1971 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1972 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1973 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1974 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1975 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1976 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1977 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1978 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1979 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1980 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1981 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1982 Penny - Memorial Reverse          
1982 D Penny - Memorial Reverse          

*Source Red Book

 

FAQ

What is a Wheat Penny?
A Wheat Penny, also known as a Lincoln Wheat Cent, is a United States one-cent piece produced from 1909 to 1958. It features Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two wheat ears on the reverse.
Why are Wheat Pennies collected?
They are collected for their historical significance, aesthetic appeal, the variety of mint marks and errors, and potential value.
What are the key dates for Wheat Pennies?
Key dates include 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 (no D), 1931-S, and the 1955 double die.
How much is a 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny worth?
Depending on condition, it can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
What does the "S" and "D" mean on Wheat Pennies?
"S" stands for the San Francisco Mint and "D" for the Denver Mint. No mark indicates the Philadelphia Mint.
What is the rarest Wheat Penny?
The 1909-S VDB is considered one of the rarest due to its low mintage and high collector demand.
Can Wheat Pennies be valuable?
Yes, especially those in uncirculated condition, with key dates, or with errors.
How do I know if my Wheat Penny is valuable?
Check its date, mint mark, condition, and for any errors. Consult a price guide or a professional appraiser for a precise value.
What errors increase a Wheat Penny's value?
Common errors include double dies, off-center strikes, and missing letters. The 1955 double die is particularly famous.
What is the value of a 1943 steel Wheat Penny?
While most are worth between 10 to 50 cents in circulated condition, pristine uncirculated examples can fetch higher prices.
How to store and care for Wheat Pennies?
Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight in acid-free holders or albums to prevent damage and corrosion.
Are Wheat Pennies made of gold?
No, they were primarily made of copper, except for the 1943 steel version.
What is the most expensive Wheat Penny ever sold?
A 1943-D bronze Wheat Penny sold for over $1.7 million due to its rarity as a mint error.
How can you clean a Wheat Penny?
Generally, cleaning coins is discouraged as it can decrease their value. If necessary, consult a professional.
What is the "VDB" on some Wheat Pennies?
"VDB" are the initials of Victor David Brenner, the coin's designer, found on the 1909 version.
How to identify a Wheat Penny?
Look for the iconic wheat stalks on the reverse and Abraham Lincoln on the obverse.
Why was the Wheat Penny replaced?
It was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial design in 1959 to honor the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's birth.
How many Wheat Pennies were minted?
Billions were minted over the series' 50-year span, making them relatively common but with some rare exceptions.
What years of Wheat Pennies are most valuable?
Key dates like 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 no D, 1931-S, and those with errors like the 1955 double die.
What do the wheat stalks on the reverse symbolize?
They symbolize prosperity and abundance.
Can you still find Wheat Pennies in circulation?
It's rare, but possible, as some may still be found in change, coin rolls, or collections.
What is the composition of Wheat Pennies?
Primarily 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, except for the 1943 steel cent.
What is a "Lincoln Cent"?
The Lincoln Cent is the current denomination of the U.S. penny, with the Wheat Penny being the first design in this series.
Are there any color variations in Wheat Pennies?
Yes, depending on the metal composition and environmental exposure, they can range from copper red to brown.
How to start collecting Wheat Pennies?
Begin by checking your own change, visiting local coin shops, attending coin shows, and learning about grading and valuation to build your collection.