1 Cent ($0.01)

Lincoln Wheat Cent

United States · 1956

The obverse features the profile of Abraham Lincoln facing right, designed by Victor David Brenner. The inscription 'LIBERTY' is on the left, and the date '1956' is on the right. The reverse (not shown) features two stalks of wheat framing the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.

Country: United States
Year: 1956
Denomination: 1 Cent ($0.01)
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 February 22, 2026More united states coins →

Explore Lincoln Wheat Cent in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own coins.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Overview

Historical significance

The Lincoln Wheat Cent was the first regular-issue United States coin to feature a real person's portrait. It was introduced in 1909 to commemorate the centennial of Abraham Lincoln's birth. The 1956 issue is from the penultimate year of the Wheat design before it was changed to the Lincoln Memorial reverse in 1959.

Estimated value

$0.02 - $0.15 (depending on condition; circulated common dates usually hold nominal value above face value due to copper content)

Care & preservation

Avoid cleaning the coin with chemicals or abrasives, as this can permanently damage the surface and reduce its numismatic value. Store it in a cool, dry place within a PVC-free coin holder or envelope to prevent oxidation and environmental damage.

Other united states coins

See all

United States Administration (Philippines) One Centavo

Philippines (issued by the United States Mint) · 1944

One Centavo

United States Administration of Philippines One Centavo

Philippines (under United States Sovereignty) · 1944

One Centavo

Reader's Digest Sweepstakes 25th Anniversary Coin (Token)

United States, Reader's Digest Association · 1987

No cash value (Promotional Token)

United States Bicentennial Quarter

United States of America · 1776-1976

Quarter Dollar ($0.25)

United States Bicentennial Quarter

United States of America · 1776-1976 (Minted in 1975 and 1976)

Quarter Dollar (25 Cents)

United States Presidential Dollar (Grover Cleveland)

United States · 2011 (for the 22nd and 24th President, Grover Cleveland)

1 Dollar ($1)

Overview

Historical significance

Estimated value

Care & preservation

Other united states coins

Learn about Lincoln Wheat Cent in the encyclopedia