The Lincoln Wheat pennies, minted from 1909 to 1958, are among the most iconic coins in U.S. history. While many of these coins are common, some rare varieties have become highly prized due to minting errors, unique features, and limited production. These extraordinary pennies have fetched prices exceeding $50,000 at auctions, with some reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Here’s a look at six of the most valuable Wheat pennies, their distinct features, and what makes them worth so much.
Table of Contents
1. 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny
During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched from copper to zinc-coated steel for pennies to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few leftover bronze planchets were mistakenly struck, resulting in the 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny.
- Mint Mark: Denver (D).
- Composition: Bronze.
- Unique Feature: Accidental use of bronze planchets.
- Auction Record: Sold for $840,000 in January 2021.
- Rarity: Only one known to exist, making it one of the rarest U.S. coins.
2. 1943-S Bronze Wheat Penny
Similar to the Denver Mint’s error, the 1943-S Bronze Wheat Penny was a result of leftover bronze planchets being struck at the San Francisco Mint.
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S).
- Composition: Bronze.
- Unique Feature: Rare minting error.
- Auction Record: Sold for $504,000 in November 2020.
- Rarity: Approximately six known examples.
3. 1944-S Steel Wheat Penny
In 1944, the Mint returned to producing copper pennies. However, some leftover steel planchets from 1943 were mistakenly used, leading to the creation of the 1944-S Steel Wheat Penny.
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S).
- Composition: Steel.
- Unique Feature: Rare carryover of 1943 steel planchets.
- Auction Record: Sold for $408,000 in August 2021.
- Rarity: Only two examples known to exist.
4. 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny
At the Philadelphia Mint, a small number of 1943 Bronze Wheat Pennies were accidentally struck.
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia).
- Composition: Bronze.
- Unique Feature: Accidental use of bronze planchets.
- Auction Record: Sold for $372,000 in February 2021.
- Rarity: Approximately 20 known examples.
5. 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Wheat Penny
The 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Wheat Penny features a major error where the obverse inscriptions are visibly doubled. This striking flaw makes it a standout collectible.
- Mint Mark: None.
- Composition: Copper.
- Unique Feature: Doubled die error on the obverse.
- Auction Record: Sold for $336,000 in March 2018.
- Rarity: Only a few examples are known.
6. 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny
The 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny is famed for its designer’s initials, Victor David Brenner, prominently displayed on the reverse.
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S).
- Composition: Copper.
- Unique Feature: VDB initials and low mintage.
- Auction Record: Sold for $168,000 in April 2022.
- Rarity: Only 484,000 minted, making it highly sought after by collectors.
| Year | Mint Mark | Composition | Notable Feature | Auction Record | Date of Sale |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 | D | Bronze | Minting error | $840,000 | Jan 2021 |
| 1943 | S | Bronze | Minting error | $504,000 | Nov 2020 |
| 1944 | S | Steel | Minting error | $408,000 | Aug 2021 |
| 1943 | None | Bronze | Minting error | $372,000 | Feb 2021 |
| 1958 | None | Copper | Doubled die obverse | $336,000 | Mar 2018 |
| 1909 | S | Copper | VDB initials | $168,000 | Apr 2022 |
Several factors contribute to the high value of these Lincoln Wheat pennies:
- Minting Errors: Coins struck with mistakes, such as using the wrong planchet or doubling inscriptions, are extremely rare.
- Low Mintage: Coins produced in limited quantities are always in high demand among collectors.
- Historical Significance: Early and wartime coins tell unique stories about U.S. history.
- Condition: Higher grades significantly increase the value of these coins.
Owning one of these rare pennies is like holding a piece of American history—and a potential fortune.
FAQs
What is the most valuable Wheat penny?
The 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny, worth up to $840,000.
Why is the 1958 Doubled Die Penny valuable?
It features a rare doubling error on the obverse inscriptions.
How many 1944-S Steel Pennies exist?
Only two examples are known to exist.
What makes the 1909-S VDB Penny special?
It bears the initials of designer Victor David Brenner and has a low mintage.
Are these rare pennies still in circulation?
Rare pennies are unlikely to be found in circulation but may appear in old collections.
