Wheat Penny

Country of Origin: United States of America

Year of Issue: 1909-1958

Denomination: One Cent

Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc (except for the 1943 steel cent)

Wheat Penny

Brief Description

A copper-colored coin featuring the profile of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two ears of wheat on the reverse.

Historical Significance

The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first minted in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a portrait of a real person rather than a personification of Liberty.

Estimated Value

$0.02 - $0.05 for common dates in circulated condition, though rare dates and high-grade specimens can be worth significantly more.

Care Instructions

To maintain the coin's value, do not clean it as this can cause permanent damage to the surface and lower its numismatic value. Handle it by the edges and store it in a cool, dry place inside an archival-safe holder.

Created At: 2026-02-20T17:36:08.799697