Obverse

Reverse

One Cent (1¢)

Lincoln Wheat Cent (Lincoln Wheat Penny)

United States of America · 1919

A small copper-colored coin featuring the bust of Abraham Lincoln and two stalks of wheat on the reverse.

Country: United States of America
Year: 1919
Denomination: One Cent (1¢)
Metal: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc (Bronze)

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 of america coins →

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Overview

A small copper-colored coin featuring the bust of Abraham Lincoln and two stalks of wheat on the reverse.

Historical significance

The Lincoln Cent was first issued in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real historical person rather than an idealized figure of Liberty. 1919 was a post-WWI year with high production.

Obverse (front)

Profile of Abraham Lincoln facing right, designed by Victor David Brenner. Inscriptions: 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the date '1919'.

Reverse (back)

Two wheat stalks flanking the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'. Above this is the motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'.

Estimated value

$0.25-$2.00 in circulated condition; $15-$50 in Mint State (uncirculated) condition. Red-colored uncirculated specimens can exceed $100.

What drives this coin's value

The primary value factors are the coin's color (Red, Red-Brown, or Brown) and the amount of wear. Mint state coins with original red luster are much more valuable than circulated brown specimens like this one.

Grade assessment

Very Good to Fine (VG-F). The coin shows significant even wear; the wheat lines on the back are partially worn smooth, and Lincoln's features are softened but clear.

Mintage & rarity

392,021,000 (Very Common)

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Counterfeits of common 1919 cents are rare, but check for added mint marks or altered dates if the coin appears exceptionally fresh. Authentic coins will have a specific weight of ~3.1g.

Notable varieties & errors

Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) varieties exist for 1919, which show slight doubling in the date or letters.

Similar coins

1919-D and 1919-S cents. These feature 'D' or 'S' mint marks below the date and are slightly more valuable than the Philadelphia issue.

Care & preservation

Do not clean or polish the coin, as this removes the original surface and reduces numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free flip or a dry, dark place to prevent further oxidation (turning brown).

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