Obverse

Reverse

One Cent (0.01 USD)

Lincoln Wheat Cent

United States of America · 1941

A copper-colored U.S. penny featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two stalks of wheat on the reverse.

Country: United States of America
Year: 1941
Denomination: One Cent (0.01 USD)
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 May 3, 2026More united states of america coins →

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Overview

A copper-colored U.S. penny featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two stalks of wheat on the reverse.

Historical significance

Designed by Victor David Brenner to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. The 1941 issue was produced during the early years of World War II before the composition was changed to steel in 1943 to conserve copper for the war effort.

Obverse (front)

Right-facing portrait of Abraham Lincoln. Inscriptions: 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the date '1941'. Designer: Victor David Brenner.

Reverse (back)

Two stalks of wheat framing the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'. Motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' at the top. Designer: Victor David Brenner.

Estimated value

$0.05-$0.25 in circulated condition; $2-$10 in uncirculated (MS-63) condition.

What drives this coin's value

Condition (grade), presence of original red luster, and minting errors.

Grade assessment

Fine/Very Fine - Significant wear on Lincoln's hair and the wheat lines, with some dark toning/corrosion visible.

Mintage & rarity

887,018,000 (Very Common)

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Weight should be approximately 3.11g. Authentic strikes will have crisp lettering even when worn. Beware of 'reprocessed' (re-plated) coins that look overly shiny.

Notable varieties & errors

Double Die Obverse (DDO) varieties exist but are minor for this year compared to others like 1955.

Similar coins

1941-D and 1941-S pennies, which feature 'D' or 'S' mint marks under the date.

Care & preservation

Store in a cool, dry place. Use acid-free coin flips or capsules. Avoid cleaning or polishing, as this removes the naturally occurring patina and significantly reduces numismatic value.

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