Most Lincoln Wheat Pennies from the early 1900s were made in huge numbers and are still easy to find in pocket change or coin jars. But the 1925-S Wheat Penny is different.
Struck at the San Francisco Mint during a time of declining penny production, this coin has become a favorite among collectors—especially in mint condition. One top-grade example even sold for more than $54,000 at auction.
So, what makes the 1925-S penny so special? And how can you tell if your old penny is one of the valuable ones? Let’s break it down.
Significance
The “S” stands for the San Francisco Mint, where this penny was produced in 1925. That year, the U.S. Mint was scaling back on penny production after years of mass output. In previous years, over 200 million pennies might be made in one year. But in 1925, only about 26 million came out of the San Francisco facility.
That lower mintage figure doesn’t make the coin extremely rare by itself—but it does make it stand out from the rest. And when coins like this survive in great condition, their value can skyrocket.
Scarcity
If your 1925-S penny is worn and looks like it’s been through decades of circulation, it’s probably worth around a few dollars. That’s still more than face value, but nothing too exciting.
The big money is in mint state examples—coins that were never used, have no wear, and often still shine with their original color. These are graded using a system from MS60 (basic mint state) up to MS70 (perfect). Coins in MS65 or higher are especially valuable.
Even more rare are red (RD) examples—those that kept their bright coppery-orange color. In 2005, an MS65 red 1925-S Wheat Penny sold at auction for $54,625, making it one of the highest prices ever paid for this date.
Identification
Here’s how to identify a 1925-S Wheat Penny:
- Look for the date 1925 on the front (obverse) of the coin
- Just below the date, you should see a small “S” mint mark
- The back (reverse) will feature the classic wheat ears design, used from 1909 to 1958
- If your penny still has its reddish copper color and very little wear, it could be a high-grade example
If you’re unsure about condition, compare your coin to online images of graded coins, or consider getting it professionally appraised or graded.
Market
Most circulated 1925-S pennies range in value from $1 to $20, depending on wear and eye appeal. But the value grows rapidly in higher grades:
| Grade | Color | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Fine (F12) | Brown | $2 – $5 |
| Very Fine (VF20) | Brown | $5 – $10 |
| Extra Fine (EF40) | Brown | $10 – $25 |
| Mint State (MS63) | Red-Brown | $200 – $400 |
| Mint State (MS65) | Red | $4,000 – $6,000 |
| Auction Record | Red | $54,625 (MS65 Red) |
These values can change based on market demand, but top specimens remain highly desirable among collectors.
Tips
Got some old pennies sitting around? Here’s what you should do:
- Look closely for the date and mint mark
- Use a magnifier to inspect the surface condition and luster
- Avoid cleaning the coin—it can reduce the value
- If it looks promising, have it graded by a service like PCGS or NGC
- Store it safely in a protective holder
Even if it turns out to be a common circulated piece, it still holds some collector interest—and history.
The 1925-S Wheat Penny may not appear rare at first glance, but in the world of coin collecting, condition is everything. With one example fetching over $54,000, it’s proof that even a humble one-cent coin can be a serious treasure.
FAQs
Where was the 1925-S penny minted?
It was minted at the San Francisco Mint, marked with an ‘S’.
What makes the 1925-S penny valuable?
Low mintage and rare high-grade red examples drive up the value.
How can I tell if mine is worth a lot?
Look for bright color, no wear, and get it graded if unsure.
What is the highest sale price for this coin?
An MS65 Red 1925-S sold for $54,625 at auction in 2005.
Should I clean my old penny?
No. Cleaning can damage the coin and reduce its value.
