1 Cent
Lincoln Wheat Cent
USA · 1940-1958 based on Lincoln Memorial Cent being introduced in 1959
A copper-colored U.S. penny with the wheat ears reverse design, heavily worn.
- Country
- USA
- Year
- 1940-1958 based on Lincoln Memorial Cent being introduced in 1959
- Denomination
- 1 Cent
- Metal
- 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
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Overview
A copper-colored U.S. penny with the wheat ears reverse design, heavily worn.
Historical significance
The Wheat Cent (1909–1958) was the first U.S. coin to feature a historical figure (Abraham Lincoln) instead of a personification of Liberty.
Obverse (front)
Profile of Abraham Lincoln facing right, with 'IN GOD WE TRUST' above and 'LIBERTY' to the left.
Reverse (back)
Two ears of wheat surrounding the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', with 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' at the top.
Estimated value
$0.02 - $0.10 in common circulated condition; high-grade uncirculated examples can be worth $1 - $20 depending on date/mint.
What drives this coin's value
Condition, mint mark (S is often lower mintage), and presence of red luster versus brown oxidation.
Grade assessment
Fine to Very Fine; significant circulated wear visible on the high points of Lincoln's hair and the wheat stalks.
Mintage & rarity
Common; billions were minted between 1940 and 1958.
Authenticity & counterfeit red flags
Authentic wheat cents are common, so counterfeits are rare except for key dates like 1909-S VDB or 1914-D. Verify weight and diameter.
Notable varieties & errors
1955 Doubled Die Obverse is the most famous variety for this entire series; look for doubling in the letters and date if the year is 1955.
Similar coins
Lincoln Memorial Cent (1959–2008) which features the Lincoln Memorial on the back instead of wheat.
Care & preservation
Do not clean or polish, as this strips the original surface and reduces numismatic value. Store in an acid-free holder.
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