History of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was introduced in 1909 to honor Abraham Lincoln on the 100th anniversary of his birth. It replaced the Indian Head cent and became the first circulating U.S. coin to feature a real person.
Designed by Victor David Brenner, the obverse shows Lincoln’s profile, while the reverse displays two wheat ears, giving the coin its common name. This design was produced from 1909 to 1958 and remains a favorite among collectors.
Key Dates and Varieties of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
Knowing key dates and varieties helps prioritize what to look for in a collection. Some dates and mint marks are scarce and can dramatically affect value.
- 1909-S VDB: Early and much sought after due to the VDB initials on the reverse.
- 1909-S: Scarcer than many other early Lincoln cents and popular with collectors.
- 1914-D: Notable for limited mintage from the Denver Mint.
- 1931-S: Low mintage and often collected by date sets.
- 1955 Doubled Die: Famous error where the doubling on the obverse is obvious to the naked eye.
Lincoln Wheat Penny mint marks and what they mean
Look for mint marks near the date: no mark (Philadelphia), D (Denver), and S (San Francisco). Mint marks help identify variety and rarity.
Lincoln Wheat Penny rare errors to watch for
Errors like doubled dies, off-center strikes, and wrong planchet strikes can create higher value pieces. Always have suspected errors authenticated by a professional grader or numismatist.
How to Identify a Lincoln Wheat Penny
Identification begins with the date, mint mark, and overall condition. Use a magnifier and good lighting to inspect details and mint marks clearly.
Check for these visible signs when examining a wheat penny:
- Date and mint mark legibility
- Obvious errors (doubling, off-center, clipped planchets)
- Color and metal composition changes (look for unusual toning or copper that appears different)
Practical Tips for Collecting Lincoln Wheat Penny
Collecting can be simple and affordable if you set clear goals. Decide whether you want to collect by date set, mint mark set, condition, or errors.
Storage and handling are essential. Keep coins in inert holders or flips, avoid touching faces, and store them in a stable, dry environment away from direct sunlight.
- Buy a basic loupe (10x) to inspect coins closely.
- Use coin albums or Mylar flips to protect coins from damage.
- Document purchases and provenance, especially for higher-value pieces.
Grading basics for the Lincoln Wheat Penny
Grades range from Poor (P-1) to Mint State (MS-70). Most circulated wheat pennies fall between Good (G) and Very Fine (VF).
Higher grades demand near-complete detail on Lincoln’s portrait and wheat stalks. For valuable pieces, consider professional grading through services like PCGS or NGC.
Value Factors for the Lincoln Wheat Penny
Value depends on date, mint mark, condition, and rarity. Error coins and exceptional condition pieces command premiums.
General value influencers include metal composition and historical interest. For instance, a 1943 copper cent or a pristine 1909-S VDB can attract significant collector attention.
Case Study: A Real-World Lincoln Wheat Penny Discovery
A collector in the Midwest found a 1909-S VDB wheat penny while sorting coins from an old jar. The coin showed clear VDB initials and decent detail despite circulation wear.
After researching online guides and contacting a local dealer, the collector had the coin authenticated and sold it to a specialist who recognized its scarcity. The seller used the proceeds to expand a date set collection.
How to Buy and Sell Lincoln Wheat Penny
When buying, prefer reputable dealers, auction houses, or certified online marketplaces. Ask for clear photos, condition reports, and return policies.
When selling, obtain multiple price opinions and consider professional grading for high-value pieces. Keep records of provenance to help attract serious buyers.
Did You Know?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was the longest-running U.S. copper coin design until 1958, and many collectors still find wheat cents in pocket change today.
Final Practical Checklist for Lincoln Wheat Penny Collectors
- Start with date and mint mark identification.
- Inspect for errors and unusual characteristics with a loupe.
- Protect coins in inert holders and label them clearly.
- Research values using price guides and auction results.
- Authenticate and grade high-value finds through professionals.
With a clear plan and basic tools, collecting Lincoln Wheat Pennies can be educational and rewarding. Focus on condition, provenance, and reliable sources to build a meaningful collection over time.
