Lincoln Wheat Cent

Country of Origin: United States of America

Year of Issue: 1944

Denomination: One Cent ($0.01)

Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc (Gilding metal from recycled shell casings)

Lincoln Wheat Cent

Brief Description

The obverse features a profile of Abraham Lincoln facing right, with 'IN GOD WE TRUST' above, 'LIBERTY' to the left, and the date '1944' to the right. The reverse typically features two stalks of wheat flanking the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.

Historical Significance

Due to the need for copper in World War II, 1944 pennies were famously minted using recycled brass shell casings recovered from military training grounds. This returned the penny to a copper-colored appearance after the 1943 steel penny experiment.

Estimated Value

$0.02 to $1.00 (Standard circulated condition; significantly higher for rare errors or uncirculated grades)

Care Instructions

Do not clean the coin, as scrubbing or using chemicals can destroy its numismatic value. Store in a cool, dry place inside an acid-free holder or 'flip' to prevent further oxidation or damage.

Created At: 2026-03-29T18:03:17.439671