What Are Wheat Pennies?
Wheat pennies, officially called Lincoln Wheat Cents, are small coins minted in the United States from 1909 to 1958. They get their name from the wheat stalks on the back, designed by Victor D. Brenner. These pennies are popular with collectors because some years and versions are worth much more than one cent. A few rare ones can sell for thousands, or even millions, making them a favorite for coin hunters checking pocket change or old jars.
Why Some Years Are Worth More
Not all wheat pennies are valuable, but certain years and mint marks make a big difference. The mint mark, a tiny letter on the front of the coin, shows where it was made: “D” for Denver, “S” for San Francisco, or no mark for Philadelphia. Rare years, like 1909-S or 1931-S, were made in smaller numbers, so they’re worth more. Others, like the 1943 steel penny, stand out because they were made during World War II when copper was scarce. Knowing the year and mint mark is key to spotting a valuable coin.
| Year | Mint Mark | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1909-S | S | $300-$2,000 |
| 1931-S | S | $50-$200 |
| 1943 | None | $0.15-$10 (Steel) |
How to Find Valuable Wheat Pennies
You don’t need to be a pro to start looking for wheat pennies. Check places like:
- Old coin rolls from banks
- Family heirlooms or coin jars
- Flea markets or garage sales
- Coin shops or online marketplaces
Look for clear dates and mint marks. The coin’s condition matters too; worn coins are worth less than those in great shape. If you find a 1943 penny that’s not steel, it might be a rare copper version worth up to $1 million, but get it checked by an expert.
Key Years to Watch For
Some wheat pennies are famous for their value. The 1909-S VDB, with the designer’s initials on the back, is one of the rarest and can fetch over $1,000. The 1922 “No D” penny, missing its mint mark, is another collector’s dream, valued at $500 or more. The 1943 steel pennies are common, but a few 1943 copper pennies were made by mistake and are worth a fortune. Always double-check coins from these years.
| Rare Coin | Feature | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | Designer’s initials | $1,000-$100,000 |
| 1922 No D | Missing mint mark | $500-$10,000 |
| 1943 Copper | Copper instead of steel | $100,000-$1M+ |
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve got a valuable wheat penny, handle it carefully. Don’t clean it, as that can lower its value. Take it to a coin dealer or grading service like PCGS or NGC to confirm its authenticity and condition. They’ll tell you if it’s a rare find. Even common wheat pennies are worth a few cents for their copper, so it’s worth checking any you come across.
A Fun Hobby with Big Rewards
Collecting wheat pennies is a hobby that can turn spare change into serious money. With millions still out there, you might find one in a cash register or an old collection. Each penny tells a story of American history, from the Great Depression to World War II. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned collector, keep an eye out for those wheat stalks. You could be holding a small fortune in your hand.