Lincoln Wheat Cent
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 1956
Denomination: One Cent (1¢)
Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
Brief Description
A small copper coin featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two wheat stalks on the reverse.
Historical Significance
The Lincoln Cent was the first US coin to feature a real person's portrait. The 'Wheat' reverse was used from 1909 to 1958 to celebrate the centennial of Lincoln's birth and the agricultural strength of America.
Estimated Value
$0.02 - $0.05 in circulated condition; $1.00 - $10.00+ in high Uncirculated grades.
Care Instructions
Handle by the edges to avoid oils from fingers. Do not clean or polish, as this significantly reduces numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free flip or holder in a dry environment.
Mint Mark
D (Denver Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
1,071,132,000 (Common)
Weight & Diameter
3.11 grams / 19.05 mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Fine to Very Fine (circulated wear visible on Lincoln's hair and the wheat stalks, but details are clear).
Obverse (Front)
Right-facing portrait of Abraham Lincoln. Legend 'LIBERTY' to the left, date '1956' and mint mark 'D' to the right. Motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST' along the top rim. Designer: Victor David Brenner.
Reverse (Back)
Denomination 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' centered, flanked by two stylized ears of durum wheat. Motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' at the top. Designer: Victor David Brenner.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Mint red color, lack of surface marks, and die varieties. 1956-D is a extremely common date, so value is mostly determined by wear.
Similar Coins
1956 Philadelphia issue (no mint mark) and the 1909-1958 Wheat cent series in general.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Weight should be 3.11g (not 2.5g like modern zinc pennies). Check for distinct lettering and the correct 'D' mint mark style.
Notable Varieties & Errors
1956-D Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) varieties are common targets for collectors.
Created At: 2026-06-16T17:40:05.984914