Wheat pennies, minted from 1909 to 1958, hold a special place in numismatic history. While many are common, some rare specimens are worth staggering amounts, sometimes reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars. Here’s a look at ten of the most valuable wheat pennies and what makes them so extraordinary.
Table of Contents
1943-D Bronze Cent
During World War II, pennies were struck from zinc-coated steel to save copper for the war effort. However, a few 1943 pennies were mistakenly struck on leftover bronze planchets. The 1943-D bronze cent is exceptionally rare, with only one known example.
Highlights:
- Mint Mark: ‘D’ for Denver.
- Value: Sold for $840,000.
Its rarity and unique history make it one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. history.
1944 Steel Cent
In 1944, the Mint returned to copper pennies, but a few steel planchets from 1943 accidentally made their way into production. These rare 1944 steel cents are worth a fortune.
Highlights:
- Error: Struck on steel planchets.
- Value: One sold for $408,000.
Their accidental nature makes them fascinating collectibles.
1958 Doubled Die Obverse
This penny features a dramatic doubling of the inscriptions on the obverse due to a die error.
Highlights:
- Error: Doubled die obverse (DDO).
- Value: Only three known, with one fetching $336,000.
It’s one of the rarest doubled die varieties in existence.
1943-S Bronze Cent
Like the 1943-D, the 1943-S was also struck on a bronze planchet instead of steel. Around five or six specimens exist.
Highlights:
- Mint Mark: ‘S’ for San Francisco.
- Value: Sold for $504,000.
Its scarcity and historical significance make it a collector’s dream.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
This penny marks the debut of the Lincoln cent design by Victor David Brenner, whose initials (“VDB”) appear on the reverse. With a mintage of just 484,000, it’s a classic rarity.
Highlights:
- Mintage: 484,000.
- Value: High-grade examples exceed $100,000.
Its historical importance adds to its allure.
1914-D Lincoln Cent
This coin, minted in Denver, is scarce in all conditions but especially in pristine grades.
Highlights:
- Mintage: 1,193,000.
- Value: High-grade specimens can reach $158,625.
It’s a cornerstone for any serious wheat penny collection.
1922 No D Strong Reverse
In 1922, all Lincoln cents were minted in Denver, but some coins were struck without the “D” mint mark due to die polishing. The “No D” variety with a strong reverse is particularly prized.
Highlights:
- Error: Missing “D” mint mark.
- Value: Up to $82,250.
Its uniqueness stems from a manufacturing anomaly.
1931-S Lincoln Cent
Minted during the Great Depression, this penny had a mintage of just 866,000, making it a prized collectible.
Highlights:
- Mintage: 866,000.
- Value: Top-grade coins sell for up to $18,600.
It’s a piece of history from a challenging time in the U.S.
1955 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1955 DDO penny is famous for its dramatic doubling of the date and inscriptions, making it one of the most well-known error coins.
Highlights:
- Error: Doubled die obverse.
- Value: High-grade examples fetch up to $114,000.
Approximately 24,000 were circulated, adding intrigue to its rarity.
1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent
The 1943 bronze cent from the Philadelphia Mint is another result of using bronze planchets during steel penny production.
Highlights:
- Error: Struck on a bronze planchet.
- Value: One sold for $372,000.
Its combination of rarity and error makes it highly desirable.
| Year | Mint Mark | Error/Variety | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 | D | Bronze Planchet | $840,000 |
| 1944 | None | Steel Planchet | $408,000 |
| 1958 | None | Doubled Die Obverse | $336,000 |
| 1943 | S | Bronze Planchet | $504,000 |
| 1909 | S | VDB Initials | $100,000+ |
| 1914 | D | None | $158,625 |
| 1922 | None | No D, Strong Reverse | $82,250 |
| 1931 | S | None | $18,600 |
| 1955 | None | Doubled Die Obverse | $114,000 |
| 1943 | None | Bronze Planchet | $372,000 |
From errors to low mintages, these wheat pennies are treasures worth hunting for in your collection.
FAQs
What is the rarest wheat penny?
The 1943-D bronze cent is the rarest, with one known example.
Why are 1943 steel pennies common?
They were widely minted during WWII to conserve copper.
What makes the 1955 penny valuable?
Its dramatic doubled die obverse error.
How much is a 1909-S VDB penny worth?
High-grade examples can exceed $100,000.
Are error coins worth more?
Yes, errors often increase rarity and value.
