Many common pennies are worth face value, but certain Lincoln Wheat pennies can reach extraordinary prices when in high grade or in error form. This guide highlights five types that have produced auction results of $70,000 or more, explains identification and grading basics, and shows how to check your pocket change safely.
Top 5 Lincoln Wheat Pennies Worth $70,000+
Each of the five entries below explains why the coin is valuable, what to look for, and why condition or error status matters. Rare dates, low mintages, and unusual planchets or dies are common reasons a wheat penny is valuable.
1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny
Why it matters: The 1909-S VDB is a key early Lincoln cent. The initials VDB for designer Victor D. Brenner were only used on a few 1909 coins before being removed, making these scarce at high grades.
Identification tips: Look at the reverse at the bottom rim for VDB letters. Check for strong strike and minimal wear to command top values.
- Key factor: Mintmark S and VDB initials
- Value driver: High grade (MS60 and above) or exceptional strike
1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny
Why it matters: The 1914-D is a classic key date with low mintage, especially scarce in uncirculated condition. Collectors prize high-grade examples.
Identification tips: Find the D mintmark under the wreath on the reverse. Look for sharp details on Lincoln and full rims.
- Key factor: Low mintage and demand from date sets
- Value driver: Clean, minimally worn surfaces and original luster
1922 Plain Lincoln Wheat Penny (No D)
Why it matters: The 1922 Plain cent from Philadelphia can be rare in high grades because many surviving examples were heavily circulated. High-grade proofs or business strikes are especially valuable.
Identification tips: Absence of a mintmark on the reverse indicates the Philadelphia issue. Inspect the fields and the letters for signs of die polishing or weak strikes which are common with this date.
- Key factor: High-grade survivors are scarce
- Value driver: Mint state condition or verified proof examples
1943 Bronze Lincoln Wheat Penny
Why it matters: During World War II, most cents were struck on zinc-coated steel to save copper. A small number of 1943 bronze cents were struck on the pre-war copper planchet by mistake. These error coins are extremely valuable.
Identification tips: A bronze 1943 will have the copper color and feel, unlike the usual gray steel. Magnetic testing helps: steel cents are magnetic while bronze cents are not.
- Key factor: Wrong planchet error
- Value driver: Verified authenticity and untouched surfaces
1955 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Wheat Penny
Why it matters: The 1955 doubled die obverse is one of the most famous modern doubled-die errors. On genuine examples, doubling is strong on the date and inscriptions, producing collectible premiums.
Identification tips: Look for clear, repeated outlines on the date and the words LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST. Counterfeit doubling or post-mint damage can mimic the effect, so authentication is essential.
- Key factor: Strong, original die doubling on obverse elements
- Value driver: Bold doubling and original strike condition
How to Check and Protect a Potentially Valuable Wheat Penny
Start simple: use a magnifier, good light, and a soft surface to inspect coins. Avoid cleaning or polishing, as that destroys collector value.
Follow this quick checklist when you find a promising penny:
- Note the date and any mintmark (D, S, or none).
- Check for errors: color, planchet differences, doubling, or missing elements.
- Do not clean the coin. Record photos before handling more than necessary.
- Get professional authentication and grading if it appears rare.
Where to Get Coins Authenticated and Sold
Major third-party graders provide authentication and grade opinions that buyers trust. Use reputable services to maximize sale value. Typical options include well-known grading services and respected auction houses.
- Submit coins to a major grading service for authentication and grading.
- Use established auction houses or specialty dealers to sell high-value pieces.
- Request condition reports and provenance when possible.
Some Lincoln Wheat pennies lose value when cleaned. Even minor polishing removes original surface and can drop a coin from collectible to nearly worthless for serious collectors.
Small Real-World Case Study
A collector found a worn-looking 1943 cent in an old coin jar and suspected something unusual due to its brown color. After careful handling and noninvasive checks, the coin was submitted to a recognized grading service. Authentication confirmed a bronze 1943 planchet, and the collector later sold the coin through an established dealer for a six-figure price after receiving full grading and provenance documentation.
Final Steps If You Think You Have One
If you find a candidate, resist the urge to clean it. Take clear photos, note the date and any mintmark, and consult a trusted grader or dealer. Even coins that look ordinary can be rare in the right condition.
Common next actions:
- Photograph the coin under good light and a magnifier.
- Compare to reputable reference images for the date and variety.
- Contact a certified grading service for submission advice.
With patience and proper authentication, a wheat penny you already own could be worth far more than its face value. Check your jars and pockets carefully.