The 100 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies: Rarity, History, and Investment Potential
Why Collectors Are Drawn to Wheat Pennies
Wheat pennies, also known as Lincoln Wheat Cents, are some of the most cherished coins in U.S. numismatics. Minted from 1909 to 1958, these copper cents carry a deep historical legacy, making them a favorite among collectors of all levels. From rare key dates to striking minting errors, wheat pennies offer an exciting glimpse into the past and the potential for high-value finds. In this guide, we'll explore why wheat pennies remain highly collectible, their most valuable variations, and how to identify hidden gems in your collection.
A Historic Tribute to Abraham Lincoln
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first minted in 1909 to honor the 100th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Designed by Victor D. Brenner, it marked the first time a real historical figure replaced the traditional Lady Liberty on U.S. coinage.
Why This Was a Game-Changer:
Revolutionary Design: Featuring Lincoln’s detailed portrait on the obverse and two wheat stalks symbolizing prosperity on the reverse.
Cultural Shift: Reflecting a transition in U.S. coinage, where figures of national importance began replacing symbolic imagery.
Collector Appeal: Early-year wheat pennies, such as the 1909-S VDB, are among the most sought-after U.S. coins.
Key Rarities and Scarce Wheat Penny Dates
Not all wheat pennies are equal—some rare issues and error coins command staggering values in today’s market. Below are some of the most valuable wheat pennies and what makes them stand out:
1909-S VDB Wheat Penny – The first wheat cent, featuring Victor D. Brenner's initials, had a low mintage and is a top collector's item. (Value: $600 - $1,500+)
1943 Wheat Penny – A rare wartime error where some pennies were mistakenly struck in copper instead of steel, making them incredibly valuable. (Value: Up to $250,000+)
1955 Double Die Wheat Penny – A striking error where the date and lettering appear doubled, making it one of the most famous U.S. coin mistakes. (Value: $1,000 - $20,000+)
1922 "No D" Wheat Penny – A rare Denver-minted penny where the "D" mintmark is missing, increasing its scarcity. (Value: $500 - $2,500+)
Everyday History: The Appeal of Circulated Wheat Pennies
Beyond their value, wheat pennies are tangible pieces of American history. Many of these cents circulated through major events of the 20th century, from World War I and II to the Great Depression.
Why They're Fun to Collect:
Easily found in old coin rolls, piggy banks, or estate collections.
Offer an affordable way to build a historical coin set.
Every coin has a unique circulation story, having passed through hands of Americans for decades.
Even common wheat pennies hold historical significance, making them an exciting and budget-friendly area of coin collecting.
How to Spot Rare Wheat Pennies in Your Collection
With millions of wheat pennies minted, identifying rare or high-value coins requires attention to detail. Here’s how you can spot valuable wheat cents:
Check the Date and Mintmark – Coins from San Francisco ("S") or Denver ("D") mints are often more valuable than Philadelphia ("No Mintmark") issues.
Look for Errors and Varieties – Coins with double dies, repunched mintmarks, or off-center strikes command higher premiums.
Examine the Metal Composition – The 1943 copper penny and 1944 steel penny are some of the most valuable mistakes in U.S. history.
Assess the Condition – Coins in uncirculated or high grades can be worth exponentially more than worn examples.
Use Magnification Tools – A coin loupe or digital microscope helps identify small details that could increase a penny’s value.
By learning how to properly evaluate wheat pennies, collectors can unlock hidden treasures in their own collections.
Top 100 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies
Below is the complete list of 100 wheat pennies that are most valuable to collectors, including famous errors, key dates, and high-grade rarities. Each of these coins has earned its place in numismatic history due to scarcity, unique minting variations, or collector demand. Whether you're searching for rare wheat pennies in circulation or looking to invest in high-value Lincoln cents, this guide will help you identify the most sought-after pennies and understand what makes them so collectible.
1943 Copper Wheat Penny Accidentally struck on leftover copper planchets instead of steel, this rare error is one of the most famous and valuable coins in U.S. history. (Value: Up to $250,000+)
1944 Steel Wheat Penny Struck on leftover steel planchets from 1943, this error coin is highly rare and coveted by collectors. (Value: $75,000–$125,000)
1943 Bronze Wheat Penny (Philadelphia Mint) Another rare error struck on leftover bronze planchets intended for 1942 coins. (Value: $100,000+)
1942 Steel Wheat Penny Pattern This experimental coin never made it to circulation, making it extremely rare. (Value: $30,000–$75,000)
1959 Wheat Penny Pattern An experimental wheat penny struck after the series ended, making it highly rare. (Value: $25,000–$50,000)
1955 Double Die Wheat Penny Known for its striking doubling of the obverse text, this error is a must-have for serious collectors. (Value: $1,000–$20,000+)
1958 Doubled Die Obverse Wheat Penny A rare error with doubling on the obverse, making it a standout in the series. (Value: $2,000–$10,000+)
1909-S VDB Wheat Penny The inaugural wheat penny featuring Victor D. Brenner’s initials, with a limited mintage of only 484,000 coins. (Value: $700–$2,000+)
1922 "No D" Wheat Penny A Denver-minted coin missing its "D" mintmark due to a die error, making it a unique and valuable collector’s piece. (Value: $500–$2,500+)
1914-D Wheat Penny With a mintage of just over 1 million, this coin is a key date in the series and highly sought after. (Value: $200–$1,500+)
1931-S Wheat Penny One of the lowest-mintage coins of the Great Depression era, with fewer than 900,000 produced. (Value: $100–$1,000+)
1924-D Wheat Penny A semi-key date with a relatively low mintage, making it valuable among collectors. (Value: $50–$800+)
1917 Double Die Obverse Wheat Penny Features dramatic doubling of obverse elements, adding significant value. (Value: $150–$600+)
1912-S Wheat Penny A key date with limited mintage, making it a valuable addition to collections. (Value: $80–$400+)
1936 Double Die Obverse Wheat Penny Subtle but collectible doubling on the obverse design makes this coin desirable. (Value: $75–$200+)
1923-S Wheat Penny A low-mintage coin from the San Francisco Mint, sought after for its scarcity. (Value: $50–$300+)
1920-S Wheat Penny This early San Francisco mint coin remains popular due to its relative scarcity. (Value: $30–$150+)
1939 Double Die Reverse Wheat Penny Doubling on the reverse design elements makes this a standout collector’s piece. (Value: $75–$250+)
1913-D Wheat Penny A semi-key date with a relatively low mintage from the Denver Mint. (Value: $40–$150+)
1949-S Wheat Penny with RPM Repunched mintmark varieties on this coin add unique value to an otherwise common issue. (Value: $30–$120+)
1918-D Wheat Penny A semi-key date with lower mintage from the Denver Mint. (Value: $30–$125+)
1934 Double Die Reverse Wheat Penny Doubling on the reverse design makes this a standout piece. (Value: $75–$300+)
1933-D Wheat Penny A scarce coin produced during the Great Depression, sought after by numismatists. (Value: $50–$200+)
1927-S Wheat Penny A collectible coin due to its relatively low production numbers. (Value: $40–$150+)
1930-S Wheat Penny This San Francisco-minted coin is sought after for its relative scarcity. (Value: $35–$150+)
1926-S Wheat Penny A low-mintage coin that remains in high demand among collectors. (Value: $50–$200+)
1913-S Wheat Penny This semi-key date from the San Francisco Mint is highly sought after due to its low mintage. (Value: $75–$300+)
1921-S Wheat Penny A rare coin from a year with lower overall production. (Value: $60–$300+)
1915-S Wheat Penny With a mintage of just over 4.8 million, this coin is a semi-key date in the series. (Value: $70–$350+)
1929-S Wheat Penny A low-mintage coin that remains in demand among collectors. (Value: $25–$100+)
1928-S Wheat Penny Known for its lower mintage and high demand among collectors. (Value: $30–$150+)
1925-S Wheat Penny This coin’s low mintage and scarcity make it a popular choice for collectors. (Value: $30–$200+)
1916-S Wheat Penny A semi-key date from the San Francisco Mint with lower production numbers. (Value: $50–$300+)
1922-D Wheat Penny with Weak Reverse This Denver-minted coin is notable for its faintly struck reverse, creating unique collector appeal. (Value: $40–$150+)
1931-D Wheat Penny A scarce coin with fewer than 4.4 million minted, making it highly desirable. (Value: $50–$250+)
1919-S Wheat Penny A semi-key date with relatively low production, making it a desirable piece. (Value: $40–$200+)
1927-D Wheat Penny A Denver-minted coin with relatively low production numbers. (Value: $30–$120+)
1943 Steel Penny with Die Breaks Die breaks or cracks make this already unique wartime penny even more collectible. (Value: $20–$75+)
1920-D Wheat Penny A Denver-minted coin with lower mintage, making it more collectible. (Value: $30–$120+)
1930-D Wheat Penny A lower mintage coin from the Denver Mint, prized for its scarcity. (Value: $25–$100+)
1938-D Wheat Penny Known for its lower mintage, this coin appeals to collectors completing a set. (Value: $25–$75+)
1936-S Wheat Penny A semi-key date from the San Francisco Mint with a relatively low mintage. (Value: $40–$150+)
1940-S Wheat Penny with Die Cracks Die cracks on these coins create unique patterns, increasing their desirability. (Value: $25–$100+)
1911-S Wheat Penny A semi-key date with a lower mintage from the San Francisco Mint. (Value: $100–$400+)
1912-D Wheat Penny A key date from the Denver Mint with a relatively low mintage. (Value: $50–$250+)
1947-S Wheat Penny with RPM Repunched mintmarks make these coins stand out from the standard issues. (Value: $25–$100+)
1941-S Wheat Penny with RPM The repunched mintmark adds collectibility to this early World War II-era coin. (Value: $30–$120+)
1948-S Wheat Penny with Die Chips Die chip errors on this coin add a unique touch for collectors. (Value: $25–$100+)
1949-D Wheat Penny with Die Chips Die chips on this Denver-minted coin add to its collector appeal. (Value: $20–$60+)
1942-D Wheat Penny with RPM This Denver-minted coin features a repunched mintmark, making it a desirable error for collectors. (Value: $40–$150+)
1937 Double Die Obverse Wheat Penny Features doubling on the obverse inscriptions, making it a collectible standout. (Value: $50–$200+)
1926-D Wheat Penny A low-mintage coin from the Denver Mint with lasting appeal for collectors. (Value: $30–$125+)
1915-D Wheat Penny This Denver-minted coin has a low mintage, making it highly collectible. (Value: $40–$150+)
1924-S Wheat Penny A scarce coin from the San Francisco Mint with high demand among collectors. (Value: $50–$300+)
1945-S Wheat Penny with RPM (Repunched Mintmark) Repunched mintmarks add intrigue and value to this post-war coin. (Value: $50–$150+)
1918-S Wheat Penny This semi-key date from the San Francisco Mint has enduring collector demand. (Value: $40–$150+)
1920 Wheat Penny (Weak Strike) A weak strike error makes this early penny highly desirable. (Value: $25–$100+)
1951-D Wheat Penny with Die Rotations This error adds uniqueness to an otherwise common coin. (Value: $20–$75+)
1952 Wheat Penny with Die Chips Die chips on this coin enhance its value for collectors. (Value: $15–$50+)
1953-D Wheat Penny with RPM A later wheat penny with repunched mintmark varieties that collectors love. (Value: $20–$75+)
1955-D Wheat Penny with RPM Repunched mintmark errors make this late-series penny collectible. (Value: $20–$60+)
1954-S Wheat Penny with RPM The repunched mintmark error adds a layer of value to this mid-century coin. (Value: $20–$60+)
1949-S Wheat Penny with RPM Repunched mintmark varieties on this coin add unique value to an otherwise common issue. (Value: $30–$120+)
1950-S Wheat Penny with Die Cracks Die cracks elevate the collectibility of this mid-century coin. (Value: $15–$50+)
1934 Double Die Reverse Wheat Penny Doubling on the reverse design makes this a standout piece. (Value: $75–$300+)
1941 Double Die Obverse Wheat Penny Doubling on the obverse inscriptions makes this coin a collector’s favorite. (Value: $100–$500+)
1939 Double Die Reverse Wheat Penny Doubling on the reverse design elements makes this a standout collector’s piece. (Value: $75–$250+)
1935 Double Die Obverse Wheat Penny This subtle error adds value and intrigue to an otherwise common year. (Value: $50–$250+)
1936 Double Die Obverse Wheat Penny Subtle but collectible doubling on the obverse design makes this coin desirable. (Value: $75–$200+)
1929-S Wheat Penny A low-mintage coin that remains in demand among collectors. (Value: $25–$100+)
1940-P Wheat Penny with Die Cracks Visible die cracks enhance the collectibility of this pre-war penny. (Value: $20–$75+)
1947-D Wheat Penny with RPM The repunched mintmark error adds to the appeal of this post-war coin. (Value: $20–$60+)
1948-S Wheat Penny with Die Rotations This rotated die error makes the post-war penny a desirable piece. (Value: $20–$75+)
1951-S Wheat Penny with Die Cracks Die cracks elevate the collectibility of this mid-century coin. (Value: $15–$50+)
1952-D Wheat Penny with Die Rotations Rotated die errors make this a unique and valuable coin. (Value: $30–$150+)
1945-D Wheat Penny with RPM Repunched mintmark varieties make this coin a standout for collectors. (Value: $20–$60+)
1923-S Wheat Penny A low-mintage coin from the San Francisco Mint, sought after for its scarcity. (Value: $50–$300+)
1928-D Wheat Penny A Denver-minted coin with relatively low production, sought after by numismatists. (Value: $30–$120+)
1943-D Steel Wheat Penny This wartime penny with unique features appeals to numismatists. (Value: $10–$50+)
1919 Wheat Penny with Die Cracks Die crack errors make this early wheat penny a collectible standout. (Value: $20–$75+)
1957-D Wheat Penny with Die Cracks This late-series wheat penny features unique die cracks that increase its value. (Value: $15–$50+)
1920-S Wheat Penny This early San Francisco mint coin remains popular due to its relative scarcity. (Value: $30–$150+)
1921-S Wheat Penny A rare coin from a year with lower overall production. (Value: $60–$300+)
1933-D Wheat Penny A scarce coin produced during the Great Depression, sought after by numismatists. (Value: $50–$200+)
1930-S Wheat Penny This San Francisco-minted coin is sought after for its relative scarcity. (Value: $35–$150+)
1913-S Wheat Penny This semi-key date from the San Francisco Mint is highly sought after due to its low mintage. (Value: $75–$300+)
1910-S Wheat Penny A semi-key date that appeals to collectors due to its low mintage. (Value: $50–$200+)
1943 Steel Wheat Penny with Errors Unique errors, such as doubling or die cracks, elevate the value of these wartime coins. (Value: $50–$100+)
1917-S Wheat Penny A San Francisco-minted coin with lower production numbers, prized by collectors. (Value: $50–$200+)
1914-S Wheat Penny A lower-mintage coin from the San Francisco Mint, making it a must-have for collectors. (Value: $50–$200+)
1915-S Wheat Penny With a mintage of just over 4.8 million, this coin is a semi-key date in the series. (Value: $70–$350+)
1932 Wheat Penny A low-mintage coin from the Great Depression era, appealing to collectors. (Value: $25–$75+)
1956-D Wheat Penny with Die Cracks Unique die crack patterns increase the value of these later wheat pennies. (Value: $20–$75+)
1912-S Wheat Penny A key date with limited mintage, making it a valuable addition to collections. (Value: $80–$400+)
1958-P Wheat Penny with Die Chips A late-series coin with die chip errors, enhancing its collectibility. (Value: $15–$50+)
1946-P Wheat Penny with Die Cracks Die cracks give this post-war penny additional collector value. (Value: $15–$50+)
1939-S Wheat Penny A lower mintage coin from the San Francisco Mint, often sought after by collectors. (Value: $20–$75+)
1942-S Wheat Penny with RPM The repunched mintmark adds intrigue to this wartime penny. (Value: $25–$75+)
1947-D Wheat Penny with RPM The repunched mintmark error adds to the appeal of this post-war coin. (Value: $20–$60+)
1929-D Wheat Penny A semi-key date with moderate mintage from the Denver Mint. (Value: $30–$100+)
Note on Values: The values assigned to each Wheat Penny are approximate and reflect current market trends, rarity, and coin grading standards. Actual prices may fluctuate due to factors like collector demand, coin condition, and the selling platform. For the most precise valuation, seeking a professional appraisal or certification from a reputable grading service is highly recommended.
Investing in Wheat Pennies: Are They Worth It?
Many collectors see wheat pennies as more than just historical relics—they are also sound investments. With demand increasing, especially for high-grade and rare varieties, their value has steadily risen.
Investment Tips for Wheat Penny Collectors:
Start with Affordable Common Dates and work toward rarer varieties.
Invest in Certified Coins (PCGS or NGC) for guaranteed authenticity.
Diversify Your Collection with key dates and high-grade specimens.
Store Properly to prevent damage—use coin holders, albums, or climate-controlled storage.
The Timeless Appeal of Lincoln Wheat Pennies
From the iconic design to their incredible value, Lincoln wheat pennies remain one of the most exciting series in U.S. coin collecting. Whether you're a new collector or seasoned numismatist, these pennies offer history, affordability, and investment potential in one small but powerful coin.
Looking to expand your collection? Explore and compare prices on rare error coins and numismatic treasures at Bullion Hunters—your trusted source for quality collectibles.
