Many collectors overlook common cents in jars and drawers. A handful of Lincoln Wheat pennies, however, can exceed $70,000 when found in high grade or with rare errors. This guide explains which five types to watch for, how to spot them, and what to do if you think you have one.
How to Spot Valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies
Condition, rarity, and verified attribution determine large values. Most wheat cents are small in face value but important differences can make one coin a major find.
Look for mint marks, unusual doubling, mint errors, and metal differences. If a penny seems unusually well struck or shows an uncommon attribute, it is worth further inspection.
Top 5 Lincoln Wheat Pennies Worth $70,000+
Below are five wheat penny types that, in the right condition, routinely reach or exceed $70,000 at reputable auctions or private sales.
1. 1909-S VDB
The 1909-S VDB is the San Francisco strike with designer Victor David Brenner initials on the reverse. Mintage was low and high-grade survivors are scarce.
- Key features: VDB initials on reverse, small S mint mark on obverse.
- Why it can be expensive: Low mintage and strong collector demand for original 1909 issues.
- Authentication tip: Confirm the VDB initials and check for cleaning or polishing that reduces grade.
2. 1914-D
The 1914-D Lincoln cent from Denver is another classic rarity. Surviving high-grade examples are limited, making Certified Mint State grades highly valuable.
- Key features: Clear D mint mark under the date and full, unbroken details on Wheat reverse.
- Why it can be expensive: Few high-grade pieces; dealers and institutions compete for them.
- Authentication tip: Watch for wear that suppresses diagnostic details; professional grading is essential.
3. 1922 No D (Plain)
The 1922 No D is a Denver issue where the D mintmark does not appear, often due to weak striking or filled dies. Mint state examples are rare and valuable.
- Key features: Absence of a visible D under the date; planchet and die characteristics match Denver strikes.
- Why it can be expensive: Collectors prize these anomalies when condition and provenance are solid.
- Authentication tip: Compare with known No D reference images and get a third-party authentication to rule out altered mintmarks.
4. 1943 Bronze (Copper Error)
Most 1943 cents were steel coated with zinc because of wartime copper needs. A small number were mistakenly struck on bronze planchets. Those bronze 1943 cents are extremely rare and highly sought after.
- Key features: Warm copper color, weight consistent with bronze, and typical Lincoln cent design for 1943.
- Why it can be expensive: Extreme rarity and clear provenance can push prices well into six figures.
- Authentication tip: Weigh the coin and use X-ray fluorescence tests or reputable grading to confirm metal composition.
5. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1955 doubled die obverse displays strong doubling on the date and motto. Many examples circulate in low grades, but top graded pieces are rare and can command very large sums.
- Key features: Noticeable doubling on IN GOD WE TRUST, LIBERTY, and the date.
- Why it can be expensive: Iconic error, high collector interest, and scarcity in high grades.
- Authentication tip: Compare with high-quality images and seek a verified attribution from a third-party grading service.
Grading and Authentication Tips for Top 5 Lincoln Wheat Pennies
- Use third-party grading: PCGS, NGC, and ANACS provide market-trusted grades and attributions.
- Avoid cleaning: Cleaning can severely reduce value. If unsure, leave the surface untouched.
- Check provenance: Auction records or prior certificates increase buyer confidence and price realization.
- Test metal composition for suspected errors: XRF or lab testing can verify a 1943 bronze instead of steel.
Selling or Insuring a High-Value Wheat Penny
If you suspect you own one of these pennies, do not sell to a first buyer without documentation. Get a professional grade and then seek competitive auction houses or specialist dealers.
Insure high-value coins through a coins and collectibles policy once graded and appraised. Store high-value items in a safe or deposit box while arrangements are made.
Lincoln Wheat pennies were minted from 1909 to 1958 and feature wheat stalks on the reverse. The initial 1909 design included the VDB initials, which were quickly reduced in prominence the same year.
Real-World Example
A private collector discovered a deeply toned 1955 doubled die among a small estate lot. The coin was sent to a major grading service and received a high uncirculated grade with the doubled die attribution. The owner consigned the coin to a specialist auction house and received multiple competitive bids, demonstrating how a careful grading and sale process can unlock value.
Final Steps if You Think You Have One
- Do not clean the coin.
- Photograph the coin under good light from multiple angles.
- Submit the coin to a trusted third-party grading service for authentication.
- Get multiple appraisals before selling, and consider auction consignment for maximum visibility.
Finding one of these Top 5 Lincoln Wheat pennies can be life changing. With careful handling, proper authentication, and informed selling, a small cent in your pocket or drawer could turn into a major numismatic discovery.
