Obverse

Reverse

1 Cent

Lincoln Wheat Cent

United States · 1949

A copper-alloy United States one-cent coin featuring a portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two stalks of wheat on the reverse.

Country: United States
Year: 1949
Denomination: 1 Cent
Metal: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc

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 September 14, 2026More united states coins →

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Overview

A copper-alloy United States one-cent coin featuring a portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two stalks of wheat on the reverse.

Historical significance

Issued during the post-World War II era, the Lincoln wheat cent was a staple of everyday American commerce. The wheat reverse design was used from 1909 to 1958 before being replaced by the Lincoln Memorial design.

Obverse (front)

Features the right-facing bust of President Abraham Lincoln, with the motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST' above, 'LIBERTY' to the left, and the year '1949' along with the 'S' mint mark to the right.

Reverse (back)

Features the denomination 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' centered between two stylized stalks of wheat, with the national motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' arching across the top rim.

Estimated value

$0.10 to $0.50 in circulated condition, $2 to $15 in uncirculated condition

What drives this coin's value

Condition/grade, presence of full mint red luster, and any major die varieties or error strikes

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine (moderate wear on Lincoln's hair details and cheek, but most major design elements and lettering remain sharp)

Mintage & rarity

Mintage of 64,285,000. Considered common.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Counterfeits are virtually nonexistent for common date 1949 wheat cents due to low individual value. Watch for altered mint marks, though not common for this specific year and mint.

Notable varieties & errors

Minor repunched mint mark (RPM) varieties exist, though common varieties generally command only slight premiums.

Similar coins

Lincoln Memorial Cents (1959-present) and modern Shield Cents (2010-present), distinguished by the reverse design showing wheat stalks instead of the Lincoln Memorial or a shield.

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges using cotton gloves to avoid transferring oils from your skin. Store in a cool, dry environment in PVC-free holders or coin flips. Do not clean the coin, as harsh cleaning destroys its original surface and significantly lowers numismatic value.

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