Wheat pennies, also known as Lincoln Wheat cents, hold a special place in the hearts of coin collectors. Minted between 1909 and 1958, these coins feature the iconic design of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two wheat stalks on the reverse, crafted by Victor David Brenner. While many wheat pennies are common, certain rare dates and mint errors have made some examples exceptionally valuable. Below, we explore six of the most sought-after wheat pennies and what makes them treasures of the numismatic world.
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1955 Double Die Wheat Penny
The 1955 double die wheat penny is one of the most famous error coins in American numismatics. This unique coin showcases a clear doubling of the date and inscriptions on the obverse, caused by a die misalignment during the minting process.
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Collectors prize this coin for its distinct appearance, which is immediately noticeable even to untrained eyes. A 1955 double die penny in good condition can sell for up to $1,000, while mint-condition examples often command prices exceeding $50,000. This coin’s historical significance and visual appeal make it a must-have for serious penny collectors.
1924-D Wheat Penny
The 1924-D wheat penny, minted in Denver, is another rarity in the wheat penny series. With a mintage of just over 1 million, most of these coins saw heavy circulation, leaving few high-quality examples available today.
Well-preserved 1924-D pennies can sell for $20,000 or more, and coins in pristine condition often achieve even higher prices at auction. This scarcity, combined with its historical context, cements its status as a highly sought-after piece for collectors.
1911-S Wheat Penny
Minted in San Francisco, the 1911-S wheat penny is notable for its relatively low mintage, making it a rarity in the series. As many of the coins from this year were circulated extensively, finding high-grade examples is particularly challenging.
Collectors value this penny for its connection to early 20th-century U.S. history. In mint state, a 1911-S wheat penny can fetch upwards of $50,000, with the most pristine examples selling for significantly more at auction.
1936 Doubled Die Wheat Penny
Although not as renowned as the 1955 double die, the 1936 doubled die wheat penny is another valuable error coin. This variety features noticeable doubling on the date and inscriptions due to a misaligned die during production.
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Coins in mint condition can sell for $50,000 or more, with the highest-quality examples reaching even greater sums. This coin is a prized addition for collectors who specialize in error coins or rare varieties.
1917-S Wheat Penny
The 1917-S wheat penny, minted in San Francisco, is another rare find in high-grade condition. With a mintage of just over 10 million, it is relatively scarce compared to other pennies from the era. Many of these coins saw significant circulation, making well-preserved examples especially valuable.
High-grade 1917-S pennies can fetch up to $20,000 or more, depending on their quality and certification. This coin remains a favorite among collectors due to its historical significance and relative rarity.
1944 Steel Wheat Penny
The 1944 steel wheat penny is a fascinating error coin with a unique backstory. While pennies in 1944 were meant to be made from copper, a few were mistakenly struck using leftover steel planchets from 1943, a year when steel was used due to wartime copper shortages.
These rare 1944 steel pennies are incredibly valuable, with some examples selling for over $100,000. High-grade specimens can command even higher prices, making this one of the most coveted error coins in U.S. coinage history.
Table – Most Valuable Wheat Pennies
| Coin | Mint | Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1955 Double Die | Philadelphia (No Mint Mark) | Up to $50,000+ (mint condition) | Distinct doubling of the date and inscriptions caused by a die misalignment during minting. |
| 1924-D | Denver (D) | $20,000+ (high grade) | Low mintage (just over 1 million) with most coins heavily circulated, making pristine examples rare. |
| 1911-S | San Francisco (S) | $50,000+ (mint state) | Relatively low mintage, rare in high-grade condition, and valued for its connection to early U.S. history. |
| 1936 Doubled Die | Philadelphia (No Mint Mark) | $50,000+ (mint condition) | Features noticeable doubling on the date and inscriptions due to a die misalignment. |
| 1917-S | San Francisco (S) | $20,000+ (high grade) | Scarce due to mintage of just over 10 million, with most coins circulated extensively. |
| 1944 Steel Penny | Philadelphia (No Mint Mark) | Over $100,000 (high grade) | Struck on leftover steel planchets from 1943, intended only for wartime production, making it exceptionally rare. |
5 FAQs
What are Wheat Pennies?
Wheat pennies, also called Lincoln Wheat cents, were minted between 1909 and 1958, featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two wheat stalks on the reverse.
Why are certain Wheat Pennies valuable?
Rare mint errors, low mintage numbers, and high-grade conditions contribute to the value of certain Wheat Pennies.
What is the most famous error in Wheat Pennies?
The 1955 Double Die Wheat Penny is one of the most famous errors, with its distinct doubling of the date and inscriptions.
What makes the 1944 Steel Wheat Penny rare?
It was mistakenly struck on steel planchets from 1943, intended only for wartime production, making it exceptionally rare.
How can I determine the value of a Wheat Penny?
Coin value depends on rarity, condition, and certification from reputable grading organizations like PCGS or NGC.
It’s still just a penny. I have some I would consider selling for much less than 125 million