Obverse

Reverse

1 Cent

Lincoln Wheat Cent

United States · 1948

A bronze Lincoln Wheat cent featuring a right-facing portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two stalks of wheat framing the denomination on the reverse.

Country: United States
Year: 1948
Denomination: 1 Cent
Metal: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc

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Identified September 14, 2026More united states coins →

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Overview

A bronze Lincoln Wheat cent featuring a right-facing portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two stalks of wheat framing the denomination on the reverse.

Historical significance

Issued in the post-World War II era, the Lincoln wheat cent was a staple of everyday American commerce during a time of economic growth and transition.

Obverse (front)

Right-facing bust of President Abraham Lincoln with the motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST' along the top rim, the word 'LIBERTY' to the left, and the year '1948' with a 'D' mint mark below to the right. Designed by Victor D. Brenner.

Reverse (back)

The inscriptions 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' flanked by two stalks of wheat, with the national motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' arching along the top rim. Designed by Victor D. Brenner.

Estimated value

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

What drives this coin's value

Condition, original mint luster, presence of environmental damage or spotting, and rare errors or high-grade uncirculated certifications.

Grade assessment

About Uncirculated (AU) to Mint State Details with some surface spotting and circulation wear on the highest points.

Mintage & rarity

173,082,500 minted at Denver; common availability

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check weight, dimensions, and magnetic properties (bronze cents are non-magnetic). Counterfeits are rare for common date 1948 cents.

Notable varieties & errors

Look for occasional repunched mint marks (RPM) or die cracks, though standard issues are the most common.

Similar coins

Lincoln Memorial Cent, Indian Head Cent

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges using clean cotton gloves or wash hands thoroughly before touching. Store in a cool, dry place inside an archival-safe coin flip, holder, or album. Never clean the coin.

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