Coin Identifier
Wheat Penny (Lincoln Cent)
One Cent

Wheat Penny (Lincoln Cent)

United States of America · 1909 - 1958

The reverse (shown) features two stalks of wheat framing the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', with the motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' at the top. The obverse features a profile portrait of Abraham Lincoln.

Country
United States of America
Year
1909 - 1958
Denomination
One Cent
Metal
Bronze (95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc; 1943 was Steel)

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.

Explore Wheat Penny (Lincoln Cent) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own coins.

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

Overview

The reverse (shown) features two stalks of wheat framing the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', with the motto 'E PLURIBUS UNUM' at the top. The obverse features a profile portrait of Abraham Lincoln.

Historical significance

First issued in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. It marked the first time a portrait was used on a circulating U.S. coin. The wheat stalk reverse design was used until 1958, replaced by the Lincoln Memorial in 1959.

Estimated value

Common dates are typically worth $0.02 to $0.05 in circulated condition; rarer dates or pristine uncirculated specimens can range from several dollars to thousands.

Care & preservation

Do not clean or polish the coin, as this removes the natural patina and can significantly decrease its numismatic value. Handle by the edges and store in a cool, dry place inside an archival-safe holder to prevent oxidation.