Find Valuable Wheat Pennies: A Short Guide
Wheat pennies were minted in the United States from 1909 to 1958 and are a common starting point for new collectors. A few dates and varieties are rare enough that an everyday pocket or jar of change could contain significant value.
This guide lists the Top 10 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies That Could Be in Your Pocket and gives practical tips to spot them and decide what to do next.
Top 10 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies That Could Be in Your Pocket
Below is a quick list, followed by short notes on why each coin matters. Values depend on condition and market demand.
- 1909-S VDB
- 1909-S
- 1914-D
- 1922 No D (Plain) – especially weak strike 1/2
- 1931-S
- 1943 Copper (error)
- 1955 Double Die Obverse
- 1909-S Indian Head? (rare overlaps)
- 1916 Doubled Die Obverse varieties
- 1936 Doubled Die Obverse
1. 1909-S VDB
The 1909-S with designer initials VDB on the reverse is highly prized in higher grades. Few were minted in San Francisco with VDB initials, making it scarce.
Look for clear VDB letters at the bottom of the reverse and strong detail on Lincoln’s profile.
2. 1909-S (without VDB)
Also rare, this variant lacks the VDB initials and is valued when well preserved. Condition is a major price driver for early wheat cents.
3. 1914-D
The Denver-minted 1914 is rare in both circulated and uncirculated grades. Pay attention to mintmark placement and overall wear.
4. 1922 No D (Plain)
Some 1922 cents show no Denver mintmark due to a weak strike. The plain 1922, especially with a broad, weak strike, can be more valuable than a standard 1922-D.
5. 1931-S
The 1931-S is scarce because fewer coins were minted in San Francisco that year. This coin is sought after in mid to high grade.
6. 1943 Copper Error
Most 1943 cents were struck in steel; a few were mistakenly struck on copper planchets. These errors are extremely valuable and collectible.
A true 1943 copper will have a weight of about 3.11 grams and the usual reddish-brown copper color.
7. 1955 Double Die Obverse
Look for a clear doubling of the date and inscriptions on the obverse. This striking error is famous and can be worth hundreds to thousands depending on condition.
8. Rare Early Overlaps and Varieties
Some early-run overlaps and experimental strikes or doubled dies from 1909–1916 are valuable to specialists. These require expert attribution to confirm value.
9–10. Other Notable Doubled Dies and Low-Mintage Years
Various doubled dies from the 1910s and 1930s, plus low-mintage years like 1919-S or certain 1920s varieties, are worth watching. Condition and market interest matter greatly.
How to Identify a Valuable Wheat Penny
Use simple checks before assuming value. These quick steps help avoid mistakes and unnecessary grading fees.
- Inspect the date and mintmark with a magnifier; small details matter.
- Check weight and color for 1943 anomalies (steel vs copper).
- Look for doubling on the obverse and reversed letters on the reverse.
- Compare to reputable online references or price guides.
Grading Basics and When to Get Professional Help
Condition drives price: uncirculated coins are far more valuable than worn ones. If you believe you have a rare date or error, consider professional grading for high-value pieces.
Professional services will authenticate mint errors and assign a grade that buyers trust. For coins under a few hundred dollars, professional grading may not be cost-effective.
The famous 1943 copper Lincoln cent error sold for over a million dollars at auction. Most 1943 cents were struck on steel due to wartime copper shortages.
Where to Sell or Get Appraisals
Local coin shops, reputable auction houses, and online marketplaces are common options. For rare or high-value pieces, use auction houses or certified dealers who specialize in U.S. coins.
Get multiple opinions and avoid quick cash offers that underpay for rarity and condition.
Real-World Example: One Pocket Find
A Pennsylvania man found a 1955 doubled die obverse in a jar of coins while sorting. He posted clear photos to a collector forum and was advised to get the coin slabbed.
After professional grading, the coin sold for several hundred dollars—far more than face value—showing the value of proper identification and grading.
Practical Tips for Everyday Finders
When sorting change, set aside coins with odd colors, clear doubling, or unusual mintmarks. Use a magnifier and scale if possible to check weight and details.
Keep coins in acid-free flips or holders and avoid cleaning them, as cleaning can severely reduce value.
Summary: What to Do If You Find One
- Stop and examine with a magnifier.
- Note the date, mintmark, and any doubling or color anomalies.
- Photograph the coin and compare to trusted references.
- Seek a second opinion from a reputable dealer or online forum before selling.
Knowing the Top 10 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies That Could Be in Your Pocket helps you spot potential finds and take the right steps to preserve and realize value. With basic tools and a clear process, even casual coin hunters can turn a handful of change into a meaningful discovery.