The Lincoln Wheat Penny might seem like just another old coin, but it carries a legacy that spans more than a century. First minted in 1909, this penny doesn’t just celebrate Abraham Lincoln—it holds real value in the world of coin collecting.
While most are worth only a few cents, some rare versions have sold for over 1 million dollars. Let’s look into why this little copper coin still captures attention and continues to show up in change today.
History
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was introduced in 1909 to mark the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person—Lincoln himself—on the obverse (front). The reverse (back) displayed two wheat stalks, symbolizing prosperity and growth.
This coin was designed by Victor David Brenner, whose initials “VDB” became part of numismatic legend. The original composition was 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, and this design lasted until 1958. In 1959, the reverse design was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial.
Despite the change, the original wheat-back design remains a favorite among collectors.
Value
Most Lincoln Wheat Pennies found today are only worth a few cents to a few dollars, depending on condition and mint year. But certain rare varieties can fetch tens of thousands—or even more.
The most famous example is the 1943 copper penny. That year, pennies were supposed to be made of steel to conserve copper for World War II. However, a few copper planchets accidentally made their way into the minting machines.
These rare copper versions are now considered some of the most valuable U.S. coins ever and have sold for over 1.1 million dollars.
Another sought-after rarity is the 1909-S VDB penny. Only a limited number were minted before the “VDB” initials were removed, making these coins extremely valuable in top condition.
Circulation
Here’s a fun fact: even though the Lincoln Wheat Penny was officially discontinued in 1958, you can still find them in circulation. Why? Because they were mass-produced and many were kept in drawers, jars, or wallets for decades.
They still show up in pocket change today, especially in older households or inherited coin collections.
That means your next big find could literally be hiding in your loose change.
Identification
Want to spot a valuable Lincoln Wheat Penny? Here’s what to look for:
| Feature | What to Watch For |
|---|---|
| Mint Year | 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 (no D), 1943 Copper |
| Mint Mark | S (San Francisco), D (Denver), or no mark (Philadelphia) |
| Condition | Mint state or uncirculated coins are worth more |
| Errors | Double dies, missing letters, off-center strikes |
Rare errors and misprints often increase a coin’s value. Clean, sharp details with no wear are key.
Future
The Lincoln Wheat Penny isn’t just a collectible—it’s a part of American history. As collectors hunt for the rarest pieces, values are likely to keep rising. And since many of these coins are still floating around, it’s worth paying closer attention to every penny you come across.
Whether you’re just starting your coin collection or you’ve inherited one from a relative, searching for Lincoln Wheat Pennies can be both fun and rewarding.
The Lincoln Wheat Penny proves that small things can carry big stories. From its symbolic wheat design to the rare million-dollar 1943 copper penny, this coin remains a staple in American numismatic circles. So next time you check your spare change, don’t overlook the pennies—they just might hold a piece of history.
FAQs
What years are rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies?
Look for 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 no D, and 1943 copper.
How much is a 1943 copper penny worth?
It has sold for over $1.1 million at auction.
Why are some Lincoln pennies valuable?
Due to minting errors, low mintage, or rare materials.
Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny still in circulation?
Yes, many still show up in everyday pocket change.
Who designed the Lincoln Wheat Penny?
Victor David Brenner designed it in 1909.
