The Lincoln Wheat Penny: An Overview
The Lincoln Wheat Penny is a small copper coin with a large role in American coinage and cultural memory. Minted from 1909 to 1958, it introduced a full-profile likeness of President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse.
This article explains the coin’s history, common varieties, identification tips, and practical advice for collectors. Use it as a practical guide to understand, value, and preserve Wheat Pennies.
History of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny replaced the Indian Head cent in 1909. It commemorated the 100th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth and reflected a new approach to coin design featuring an actual historical figure.
The reverse design showed two stylized wheat stalks framing the words ONE CENT and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. This wheat motif gave the coin its popular name.
Why the Lincoln Wheat Penny matters
The coin marked a turning point: more artistic realism and national commemoration became common on U.S. coinage. It also remains a favorite for beginners and experienced collectors alike.
Design and production details of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
Key design elements include the portrait of Lincoln by Victor D. Brenner, the wheat ears on the reverse, and mint marks (D, S) added near the date for Denver and San Francisco issues.
Years of production, small design changes, and mint errors create a wide variety of collectible pieces. Some years and mint marks are scarce and highly sought after.
Key design features to inspect
- Obverse: Full Lincoln portrait and date at right.
- Reverse: Two wheat ears with ONE CENT centered.
- Mint mark: Appears below the date for some years (D or S).
How to identify and grade a Lincoln Wheat Penny
Grading influences value. Look at wear patterns on Lincoln’s hair, cheek, and coat. High points show wear first.
Common grade categories used by collectors: Good (G), Fine (F), Very Fine (VF), Extremely Fine (EF), About Uncirculated (AU), and Mint State (MS). Follow consistent references or a dealer for accurate grading.
Practical inspection checklist
- Check date legibility and mint mark presence.
- Inspect high points (hair and cheek) for wear.
- Look for discoloration, corrosion, or cleaning marks.
- Use a magnifier to spot doubled dies or repunched mint marks.
The rarest regular-issue Lincoln cent is the 1909-S VDB and certain 1914-D examples. A genuine error like the 1943 copper planchet can be worth tens of thousands to collectors.
Key dates and varieties of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
Some pieces are famous among collectors for rarity or error. Learn these to spot likely high-value coins at a glance.
- 1909-S VDB: Limited mintage with designer initials on the reverse; highly prized.
- 1914-D: Scarce Denver-minted example in higher grades.
- 1943 Copper Cents: Most 1943 cents were steel; copper strikes are rare error pieces.
- 1955 Doubled Die Obverse: Shows strong doubling on the date and inscriptions.
Common errors to look for
- Doubled dies and repunched mint marks.
- Off-center strikes and clipped planchets.
- Wrong planchet metals (e.g., 1943 copper).
Collecting and caring for Lincoln Wheat Pennies
Start with a year-and-mint set, then add scarce dates or interesting errors. Establish goals: completion, investment, or study.
Storage matters: use inert holders, avoid PVC flips, and keep coins in stable temperature and humidity conditions.
Practical storage tips
- Use acid-free coin envelopes or Mylar flips for single coins.
- Store valuable pieces in hard plastic holders or certified slabs.
- Keep coins out of direct sunlight and away from moisture.
Real-world example: A small collector’s discovery
Case study: A local collector purchased a mixed lot of coins at a garage sale for a few dollars. Among them was a Wheat Penny with heavy toning and a clear mint mark.
After careful inspection and consulting online price guides, the collector identified it as a 1909-S VDB in Fine grade. They authenticated it through a reputable dealer and sold it at auction, demonstrating how knowledge and careful inspection can turn a modest find into a meaningful outcome.
Where to buy, sell, and get coins authenticated
Buy coins from reputable dealers, coin shows, or certified online marketplaces. For high-value coins, use third-party grading services for authentication and grading.
Keep documentation: receipts, grading reports, and provenance can improve resale value and buyer confidence.
Resources for collectors
- Standard price guides and catalogs.
- Local coin clubs and online forums for advice and trading.
- Professional grading services for high-value pieces.
Final practical tips for Lincoln Wheat Penny collectors
Learn to spot key dates and errors, manage expectations around grading, and prioritize proper storage. Start small and build knowledge through experience and reputable resources.
Regularly update your reference materials and connect with experienced collectors to improve accuracy when identifying valuable pieces.
With practical inspection skills and careful storage, the Lincoln Wheat Penny can be both a rewarding historical object and a sensible entry point into coin collecting.
