Lincoln Wheat Cent
Country of Origin: United States
Year of Issue: 1944
Denomination: One Cent ($0.01)
Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Zinc (Shell Case Bronze)
Brief Description
A small copper-colored coin featuring the profile of Abraham Lincoln and two wheat stalks on the reverse.
Historical Significance
The 1944 cent was struck using recycled brass shell cases from WWII ammunition, returning the coin to a copper-colored alloy after the 1943 steel cent experiments.
Estimated Value
$0.05-$0.15 circulated, $2-$20 in typical Mint State grades.
Care Instructions
Avoid cleaning as it removes the natural patina. Store in a cool, dry place in an acid-free holder to prevent further oxidation or 'bronze disease'.
Mint Mark
None (Philadelphia Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; mintage of approximately 1,435,400,000 for the Philadelphia issue.
Weight & Diameter
3.11 grams, 19.05 mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Good to Very Good (G-VG); significant environmental damage and wear, appears 'corroded' or heavily weathered.
Obverse (Front)
Right-facing profile of Abraham Lincoln. Legends: 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the date '1944'. Designer: Victor David Brenner.
Reverse (Back)
Two wheat stalks flanking the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'. Legend 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' at the top. Designer: Victor David Brenner.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition is the primary factor. While 1944 is a common date, examples in high Mint State or those with rare error varieties carry premiums.
Similar Coins
1943 Steel Cents (zinc-coated steel), 1944 Steel Cents (extremely rare error), and 1944-D/S mint marks.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Weight is a key indicator; genuine 1944 bronze cents weigh ~3.1g. Check for the rare 1944 steel error by seeing if a magnet attracts the coin (standard ones should not).
Notable Varieties & Errors
The 1944-D over S (D/S) overmintmark and the rare 1944 Steel Cent (wrong planchet error).
Created At: 2026-06-20T20:07:18.603753