Wheat pennies were minted from 1909 to 1958 and remain a favorite for collectors and casual searchers. Many are common, but a handful of dates and errors can be worth far more than face value. This guide explains which wheat pennies to watch for, how to identify them, and what affects value.
How to identify valuable wheat pennies
Start by checking the date, mint mark, and overall condition. Valuable wheat pennies are often scarce dates, high-grade examples, or coins with clear minting errors.
Use a magnifier or loupe to read small details. Look for doubled devices, missing mintmarks, or unusual metal color.
Helpful tools
- 10x magnifying loupe
- Soft gloves to avoid fingerprints
- Black tray or cloth to examine color and luster
- Reference guide or reputable online price guide
Factors that affect wheat penny value
- Rarity: Low mintage years and mint errors are most valuable.
- Condition: Sharp details and original surfaces command higher prices.
- Authentication: Certified coins (PCGS, NGC) often sell for more.
- Market demand: Interest from collectors and trends can move prices.
Top 8 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies
Below are eight wheat pennies commonly listed as the most valuable. Values vary widely by condition and authentication, so treat the ranges as general guidance.
1. 1943 Copper Lincoln Cent (Philadelphia)
Most 1943 cents were made in zinc-coated steel. A small number were struck in copper by mistake. These copper 1943s are among the most valuable wheat cents because they are rare and dramatic errors.
Value range: Tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on grade and verification.
2. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1955 doubled die shows very strong doubling on the date and the words IN GOD WE TRUST and LIBERTY. This is a classic variety sought by collectors.
Value range: A few hundred dollars in worn grades to many thousands in high grades or certified pieces.
3. 1909-S VDB
The 1909-S VDB (San Francisco mint, with designer Victor David Brenner initials on the reverse) is a key date. Low mintage and historical demand make it expensive.
Value range: Several hundred to tens of thousands of dollars depending on grade.
4. 1914-D Lincoln Cent
The 1914-D is scarce, especially in higher grades. Check the D mint mark under the date for identification.
Value range: Hundreds in low grades to several thousand in choice condition.
5. 1922 Plain (No D) Wheat Penny
In 1922, many Denver-minted cents were struck with a weak or missing D mintmark, creating the “no D” variety. High-grade examples are particularly valuable.
Value range: A few hundred to several thousand dollars for certified, high-grade pieces.
6. 1931-S Lincoln Cent
The 1931-S has a low mintage relative to other years and is often hard to find in nicer condition.
Value range: Tens to thousands of dollars depending on preservation.
7. 1909-S (non VDB)
Even without the VDB initials, 1909-S cents are scarce because of the early mint date. The non-VDB examples still draw collector interest.
Value range: Several hundred to thousands in higher grades.
8. 1909 Without VDB (Philadelphia key varieties)
The 1909 issues from Philadelphia can include notable varieties that collectors want, especially when in high grade.
Value range: Varies widely — from under $100 for common circulated examples to thousands for well-preserved or notable varieties.
Practical tips for searching and selling
Search rolls, pocket change, and older coin collections. Banks occasionally have older rolls that haven’t been sorted in years.
When you think you find a valuable piece, do not clean the coin. Cleaning can destroy collector value. Instead, handle with gloves and store flat in a protective holder.
- Get suspected rarities professionally authenticated and graded.
- Use reputable auction houses or well-known dealer platforms when selling.
- Check recent auction results for price comparables.
Small real-world example
A collector bought a small bag of mixed coins at an estate sale and found a worn 1955 doubled die in the lot. After sending the coin to a grading service, the collector listed it at auction and received several competitive bids. The final sale price was comfortably above common price guides, illustrating that careful inspection of everyday coins can pay off.
When to get professional help
If you find a coin that looks like one of the top 8, get it authenticated before accepting offers. Grading and authentication protect both buyers and sellers and usually increase final sale value.
Contact a reputable dealer, certified grading service, or local coin club for guidance. Avoid high-pressure buy offers from unknown sources.
Final checklist before selling
- Confirm date and mint mark with a loupe
- Do not clean or alter the coin
- Photograph the coin under neutral lighting
- Consider professional grading for high-value pieces
- Compare recent sales and choose a reliable selling channel
Finding a valuable wheat penny in everyday change is rare but possible. Knowing the top 8 dates and varieties helps you spot candidates worth further investigation. With careful handling and proper authentication, a small coin can turn pocket change into a meaningful find.
