Lincoln Wheat Cent (Lincoln Penny)

United States / United States Mint · 1909-1958 (date not legible in image, but matches the Wheat series)

A small, circular copper coin showing the profile of Abraham Lincoln on the front and two wheat ears on the back.

Country: United States / United States Mint
Year: 1909-1958 (date not legible in image, but matches the Wheat series)
Denomination: 1 Cent ($0.01)
Metal: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc (typical for this series)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified June 16, 2026More united states / united states mint coins →

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Overview

A small, circular copper coin showing the profile of Abraham Lincoln on the front and two wheat ears on the back.

Historical significance

The Lincoln Wheat Cent was first introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a historical person.

Obverse (front)

Profile of Abraham Lincoln facing right. Inscribed 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the year. Designed by Victor David Brenner.

Reverse (back)

Two stalks of wheat framing the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'. Inscribed 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' at the top.

Estimated value

$0.02 - $0.10 for common circulated dates; up to $500+ for rare key dates like the 1909-S VDB.

What drives this coin's value

The specific year and mint mark are the primary factors. Condition (grade) and any errors (like double dies) also significantly influence price.

Grade assessment

Good (G) to Very Good (VG). Significant wear and darkening; details are blurred and most fine lines are gone.

Mintage & rarity

Most years are common with mintages in the hundreds of millions; certain key dates (1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922) are rare.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for proper weight and diameter. On rare dates, look for added or removed mint marks or altered digits in the date.

Notable varieties & errors

1955 Doubled Die Obverse, 1909-S VDB, 1922 'No D', and 1944 Steel Cent (error).

Similar coins

Lincoln Memorial Cent (1959-2008) which has the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse instead of wheat stalks.

Care & preservation

Do not clean or polish the coin, as this damages the surface and removes its numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic holder or an acid-free envelope.