Rare Lincoln Wheat Penny : The simple act of checking your change could be a step back in time. Among the modern coins, you might find a Lincoln Wheat Cent—a small, copper-colored portal to early and mid-20th century America. While the overwhelming majority are valued for their history rather than a high price tag, the fascinating story of their creation and the rare exceptions that captivate collectors make them a perennial treasure hunt for everyday people.
Understanding the Lincoln Wheat Cent
First minted in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, the Lincoln Wheat Cent was a revolutionary design. It was the first regular-issue U.S. coin to feature the portrait of an actual historical figure, moving away from the allegorical Liberty common on earlier coinage. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the obverse (heads) bears Lincoln’s profile, while the reverse (tails) features two stylized wheat stalks, symbolizing national prosperity. This “wheat” design earned the coin its enduring nickname. It remained in circulation until 1958, making it a familiar piece of currency for generations and a tangible piece of shared American heritage.
Lincoln Wheat Cent Key Information Table
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Years Minted | 1909 to 1958 |
| Designer | Victor David Brenner |
| Metal Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin/zinc (1909-1942, 1944-1958). Zinc-coated steel (1943). |
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Abraham Lincoln |
| Reverse Design | Two wheat stalks encircling the denomination “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” |
| Mint Marks | “D” (Denver), “S” (San Francisco), None (Philadelphia) |
| Notable Rare Dates/Varieties | 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 Plain (No D), 1943 Copper, 1944 Steel, 1955 Doubled Die |
The Fascinating Factors Behind High Value
The value of any collectible coin hinges on a blend of scarcity, condition, and historical significance. For the Lincoln Wheat Cent, certain dates and mint marks had exceptionally low production numbers, making them rare from the start. Furthermore, dramatic historical events created unique varieties. During World War II, for instance, pennies were struck in zinc-coated steel in 1943 to conserve copper for the war effort. A minuscule number of 1943 cents were mistakenly struck on copper planchets left over from 1942—a minting error that created one of the most famous and valuable modern coins. Condition, referred to as “grade” in numismatics, is equally critical. A coin that has spent decades in circulation will be worn, while one preserved in a collection since its minting can retain its original luster and sharp details. This difference in preservation can turn a coin worth a few dollars into one worth hundreds or thousands.
A Guide to Identifying Notable Varieties
Begin your search by examining the date and mint mark on the obverse. The mint mark, if present, is located below the date: “D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco, and no mint mark for Philadelphia. Some key dates and varieties to look for include:
- 1909-S VDB: The inaugural San Francisco issue with the designer’s initials (“VDB”) on the reverse. Its low mintage creates significant collector demand.
- 1914-D: An issue from the Denver mint with an exceptionally low production number, especially in higher grades.
- 1943 Copper: A steel penny that does not attract a magnet. This is a major error and extraordinarily rare.
- 1944 Steel: The opposite error: a penny struck in steel when the mint had returned to copper. Also very rare.
- 1955 Doubled Die: A dramatic minting error where the obverse design elements, including the date and lettering, appear noticeably doubled.
Remember, rarity does not guarantee a find is valuable in worn condition, but it is the essential first step.
Where Historical Coins May Still Be Found
While the chances are slim, Lincoln Wheat Cents still surface in everyday life. They can appear in change received from older cash registers, be discovered in forgotten coin jars or inherited collections, or found at garage sales and flea markets. The most fruitful searches often begin at home, by asking family members about old savings or taking a careful look through coins saved over the years. Approaching the hunt with a sense of historical curiosity, rather than solely as a quest for riches, makes any discovery rewarding.
Steps to Take with a Potential Find
If you believe you have found a notable coin, handle it carefully by the edges to preserve its condition. Compare it to authenticated examples online or in a reference guide. For a serious potential find, such as a suspected 1943 copper cent, seek a professional opinion from a reputable coin dealer or consider submitting it to a professional grading service like PCGS or NGC. These services authenticate, grade, and encapsulate coins, providing a definitive assessment of their authenticity and condition, which is crucial for understanding true market value.
Conclusion
The Lincoln Wheat Cent is a democratic collectible—a piece of history that anyone might encounter. Its story intertwines with America’s growth, wars, and artistic expression. While the dream of discovering a coin worth a fortune is exciting, the true value for most is holding a well-worn piece of the past, imagining the hands it has passed through and the history it has witnessed. It transforms a routine glance at your change into a moment of connection with previous generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: I found a Lincoln Wheat Penny. Is it worth a lot of money?
A: While all Wheat Cents have historical and collectible value, most circulated examples are worth between a few cents and a few dollars. High value is reserved for specific rare dates, mint marks, errors, or coins in exceptionally pristine, uncirculated condition.
Q: How can I test a 1943 penny to see if it’s the rare copper version?
A: The standard 1943 cent is magnetic steel. If your 1943 penny is not attracted to a magnet, it could be the extremely rare copper error. Handle it carefully and seek a professional appraisal immediately.
Q: What does “grading” mean for a coin?
A: Grading is a standardized assessment of a coin’s condition on a scale from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Mint State). A coin’s grade, determined by professional services, is the single biggest factor in its market value after rarity.
Q: Are cleaned or polished coins more valuable?
A: No. Cleaning or polishing a coin almost always damages its surface and drastically reduces its collector value. Collectors highly prize original, untouched surfaces.
Q: Where is the best place to sell a potentially valuable coin?
A: For a coin you believe has significant value, consult with a reputable local coin dealer or consider consigning it to a major numismatic auction house. For more common dates, online marketplaces or coin shows are viable options. Always research or get multiple opinions before selling.
