Wheat pennies — those small copper coins minted between 1909 and 1958 — are among the most popular collectibles for beginner and seasoned numismatists alike. Known for the wheat stalks on the reverse side, these iconic pennies are more than just spare change; many of them carry real value, especially based on the year, mint mark, and condition.
Whether you’re digging through old jars, searching garage sales, or starting a coin collection, here’s a comprehensive look at the value of wheat pennies by year — and what to look for to spot the rare and valuable ones.
What Is a Wheat Penny?
The Wheat penny, also called the Lincoln Wheat Cent, was designed by Victor D. Brenner and first issued in 1909. Its obverse features Abraham Lincoln, while the reverse showcases two stylized wheat stalks.
Key features:
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Minted from 1909 to 1958
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Composed primarily of 95% copper
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Mint marks: No mint mark (Philadelphia), D (Denver), and S (San Francisco)
Wheat Penny Values by Year (General Overview)
Here’s a general breakdown of wheat penny values by year. Keep in mind that condition (circulated vs. uncirculated), mint marks, and errors can greatly affect the price.
| Year | Common Value (Circulated) | Higher Value (Uncirculated/Key Date) |
|---|---|---|
| 1909 (no mint mark) | $1–$3 | $25+ |
| 1909-S | $100–$350 | $600–$1,500 |
| 1909-S VDB | $600–$1,500 | $2,000–$5,000+ |
| 1910–1915 | $0.20–$2 | $10–$100+ |
| 1914-D | $200–$1,000 | $2,500+ |
| 1922 (No D) | $300–$1,200 | $3,000+ |
| 1931-S | $40–$75 | $150–$300 |
| 1943 Steel Penny | $0.10–$0.50 | $5–$30 (uncirculated) |
| 1943 Copper Penny | $100,000+ | Up to $1 million+ |
| 1944 Steel Penny | $50,000+ | $75,000–$100,000+ |
| 1950–1958 | $0.05–$0.25 | $1–$5 (mint condition) |
Top 5 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies
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1943 Copper Penny
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Value: $100,000 to over $1 million
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Why: Struck on a bronze planchet by mistake during a year when pennies were made of steel.
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1909-S VDB
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Value: $600 to $5,000+
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Why: Scarce first-year issue with designer’s initials on the reverse.
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1914-D
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Value: $200 to $2,500+
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Why: Low mintage and highly sought-after by collectors.
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1922 No D
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Value: $300 to $3,000+
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Why: A Denver-only mint year; missing mint mark caused by a die pair error.
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1944 Steel Penny
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Value: $50,000 to $100,000+
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Why: Very rare wrong-metal error.
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What Affects a Wheat Penny’s Value?
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Rarity: Key dates and mint errors dramatically increase value.
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Mint Mark: “S” and “D” mint marks often indicate smaller mintages.
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Condition: Coins in uncirculated or mint state condition fetch higher prices.
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Errors: Doubled dies, off-center strikes, and wrong planchets are prized.
How to Identify Mint Marks
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No Mint Mark: Philadelphia
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D: Denver
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S: San Francisco
Look below the date on the obverse (front) of the coin to spot the mint mark.
Pro Tip: Get It Graded
If you think you have a rare or high-condition wheat penny, consider submitting it to a professional grading service like:
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PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
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NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
This ensures authenticity and can significantly increase the resale value.
Final Thoughts
Wheat pennies are more than nostalgic coins — they can be valuable collectibles. While many are only worth a few cents, certain key dates and mint errors can be worth hundreds, thousands, or even millions. So next time you’re sorting through pocket change or inherited a coin collection, take a close look — you just might be holding a piece of American history worth far more than a penny.
Tip: Keep your wheat pennies clean, dry, and stored in coin holders or albums to preserve their value. And remember: never clean a coin — it can destroy its numismatic value.
Want help identifying a specific penny? Just ask — I’m here to help!