Lincoln Wheat pennies are among the most often sought-after series of U.S. coins coin collectors want to assemble. Among any Lincoln Wheat penny collection, the 1909-S VDB and 1914-D Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny coins represent the Holy Grails.
Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny
With some Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny examples of achieving amazing values at auctions, the Lincoln Wheat Penny maintains a particular position in American numismatic history.
Although some of these pennies would be valued at up to $10 million according to previous reports, the truth is somewhat different yet equally intriguing.
This all-encompassing examination of the Lincoln Wheat Cent investigates its actual worth, historical relevance, and what makes certain specimens especially sought after by collectors.
Among the most recognizable and cherished coins in American numismatics, the Lincoln Wheat Penny—also called the Wheat Cent—was made between 1909 and 1958, the Wheat Penny was a mainstay of American money for over half a century and is highly prized by collectors.
Key Design Features of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
Examining Lincoln Wheat Penny’s design closely helps one to understand its importance. The coin has these main characteristics:
Obverse (Front) Design:
- Lincoln’s portrait has his right-facing bust on the obverse. Lincoln in his latter years is captured in Brenner’s design by his well-known beard and unique features.
- The phrase ” LIBERTY” runs along the top edge of the coin; the year of minting is shown to the right of Lincoln’s picture. Under his portrait, “IN GOD WE TRUST” is conspicuously placed.
Reverse (Back) Design:
- Two Wheat Stalks: The coin’s reverse side shows two wheat stalks in a circle surrounding the words “UNITED STATES of AMERICA.” A representation of agriculture and wealth, the wheat stalks
- Above the wheat stalks are the words “E PLuribus UNum,” (Out of Many, One), with “CENTS” conspicuously shown at the bottom of the coin. The very evident denomination of the coin indicates that it is worth one cent.
Mintmarks:
- On the opposite side is the mintmark, which marks the location of coin manufacture. The Lincoln Wheat Penny’s probable mintmarks are:
- No Mintmark ( Philadelphia Mint )
- Denver Mint D;
- San Francisco Mint S
How to Identify Valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies
If you want to find worthwhile Lincoln Wheat Pennies, there are a few main items to search for:
- As was already noted, certain years are much more unusual than others. Research notable occurrences include 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 No D, and 1931-S.
- View the backside of the coin for its mintmark. Some mintmarks, notably “D” and “S,” are less frequent than others and may considerably increase the value of the coin.
- A few Lincoln Wheat Pennies have been struck with mistakes like misprints or duplicate strikes. These coins may be really expensive, hence be careful to look for any odd marks.
- The coin’s condition is vital. Coins of uncirculated or higher grades have much greater value than coins subject to wear and tear. Examine the features of the coin using a magnifying lens; notice any wear or deterioration.
Value of the Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny
Several factors, including its rarity, condition, and collector demand, may greatly affect the value of a Lincoln Wheat Penny. While some coins are worth only a few pennies, others may bring hundreds or sometimes thousands of dollars at auction.
- Wheat in Lincoln Some years and mint marks are harder to find than others, which makes penny coins more valuable to collectors. Because of their restricted mintage, for instance, the 1914-D and 1922 No D coins are among the most sought-after coins.
- The worth of the coin—or its grade—is determined in great part by its condition. Generally speaking, uncirculated or mint-state coins are valued more than those that exhibit wear. Coins are routinely graded on the Sheldon Scale, which runs from 1 to 70; 70 is a perfect coin. Graded MS-65 or above coins usually have the most value.
- The site of the coin’s minting influences its worth as well. For example, the 1914-D is among the most expensive Wheat Pennies; coins struck in the San Francisco Mint (S) are frequently worth more than those produced in Philadelphia.