The Lincoln Wheat penny series is one of the most popular areas of U.S. coin collecting. These small cents were minted from 1909 to 1958 and include several varieties and errors that command strong collector interest.
Top Lincoln Wheat Pennies Collectors Seek
Collectors and investors usually focus on rarity, condition, mint errors, and historical importance. Certain dates and varieties repeatedly appear on wish lists and price guides.
- 1909-S VDB — early low-mintage coin with designer initials on the reverse.
- 1914-D — low mintage Denver issue prized in high grades.
- 1922 No D — major mintmark omission variety from Denver.
- 1955 Doubled Die Obverse — dramatic doubling makes this a famous error.
- 1943 Bronze (Copper) — wartime planchet error extremely rare and highly valued.
1909-S VDB and Why It Matters
The 1909-S VDB is a cornerstone for many Lincoln Wheat penny sets. The ‘VDB’ initials of Victor David Brenner were removed from most 1909 pennies, making the San Francisco VDB examples scarce.
Collectors often buy certified examples with high grades to guarantee authenticity and condition. High-grade 1909-S VDB coins frequently top beginner want lists because they complete the date and mint mark goal for many sets.
1914-D and Condition Sensitivity
The 1914-D is rare in any grade, but the price difference between good and mint state examples is large. This makes condition assessment and professional grading critical.
Collectors should inspect the fields, devices, and rim closely for wear and cleaning damage before purchase.
Major Error and Variety Pennies
Error coins and major varieties often drive the most attention. Errors can include doubled dies, repunched mint marks, and wrong planchets.
- 1955 Doubled Die — evident doubling on the obverse lettering and date.
- 1922 No D — appears as if the Denver mintmark never struck, creating a key variety.
- 1943 Bronze — struck on leftover bronze planchets instead of the intended steel.
These coins are collectible because they are visually distinct and scarce. Authentication by a major grading service is recommended for high-value error pieces.
How to Identify and Grade Lincoln Wheat Pennies
Proper identification saves money and avoids fakes. Use a loupe, good lighting, and reference books or online databases when evaluating coins.
- Look for mintmarks: small letters under the date indicate the mint (D, S, or none for Philadelphia).
- Check for doubling: strong doubling on letters and numerals often signals a doubled die.
- Evaluate wear: coins are graded from Poor to Mint State; small differences in grade can change value greatly.
- Beware of cleaned coins: cleaned or polished surfaces reduce collector value significantly.
Practical Grading Tips for Lincoln Wheat pennies
Use these quick checks when inspecting a coin. They help determine whether professional grading is worth the cost.
- Examine high points: wear first appears on Lincoln’s cheek, jawline, and hairlines.
- Check fields for hairlines or scratch patterns from cleaning.
- Compare to high-resolution reference photos or certified examples for the same date and mint.
Practical Tips for Buying and Selling
When buying, always confirm the seller’s return policy and request high-quality photos or a third-party certification for expensive items. When selling, grade certification typically attracts better bids.
- Buy certified coins for premium rarities.
- Request a money-back guarantee for items without certification.
- Use reputable auction houses or well-known online marketplaces for high-value sales.
Storage and Preservation
Proper storage preserves value. Use inert holders, avoid PVC flips, and store coins in a stable, low-humidity environment.
Minimize handling by using gloves or holding coins by the edges.
Small Real-World Case Study
Case study: A family discovered a small cardboard box of mixed coins in an attic. Among common cents was a Lincoln Wheat penny that appeared unusually brown and heavy.
The owner took the penny to a local numismatist. After examination and confirmation it was a 1943 bronze planchet example, the coin was authenticated by a major grading service and consigned to a national auction house where it drew strong interest because of its rarity.
The sale illustrated two practical lessons: always check mixed change for odd pieces, and authentication adds buyer confidence and market value.
Summary: Building a Lincoln Wheat Penny Want List
Start by deciding your collecting focus: date-and-mint sets, high-grade singles, or error/variety specialists. Prioritize items like the 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 No D, 1955 doubled die, and 1943 bronze for a mix of historical and rarity value.
Use professional grading for pricey items, follow storage best practices, and rely on reputable sellers and auction houses. With careful study and patience, building a sought-after Lincoln Wheat penny collection is both achievable and rewarding.