7 Rare Wheat Pennies Worth Collecting & Their Current Value

The Lincoln Wheat penny, minted from 1909 to 1958, remains one of the most popular coins among collectors. While millions of these coins were produced, a handful stand out due to their rarity, historical significance, and high value in the numismatic market. Below are seven of the rarest Wheat pennies, along with their estimated worth today.

1. 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny

One of the most famous pennies in U.S. history, the 1909-S VDB Wheat penny was the first year of the Lincoln cent series. The coin features the initials of designer Victor David Brenner (VDB) on the reverse. However, due to controversy over the prominent initials, they were removed early in production. Only 484,000 were minted, making it one of the scarcest Lincoln pennies.

• Current Value: Starts at around $700 in lower grades and can exceed $3,000 in uncirculated condition.
• More Information: U.S. Mint History

2. 1909-S Wheat Penny (Without VDB)

A second rare variety from the same year, the 1909-S Lincoln Wheat penny lacks the VDB initials. The San Francisco Mint produced only 1,825,000 of these coins before the change took effect.

• Current Value: Typically $80+ in lower grades and $500+ in higher conditions.
• More Information: United States Mint

3. 1914-D Wheat Penny

The 1914-D Lincoln Wheat penny is another key date in the series. With a mintage of just 1,193,000, this coin is difficult to find in high-grade conditions, making it highly sought after by collectors.

• Current Value: Around $175+ in worn condition, with pristine examples fetching over $5,000.
• More Information: Bureau of Engraving and Printing

4. 1922 “Plain” Wheat Penny

A fascinating mint error, the 1922 “Plain” Wheat penny was produced at the Denver Mint, which was the only facility striking pennies that year. Due to a worn die, some coins were struck without the “D” mintmark.

• Current Value: Over $500 in lower grades and exceeding $10,000 in uncirculated condition.
• More Information: U.S. Mint Coin Errors

5. 1931-S Wheat Penny

The Great Depression led to a sharp decline in coin production, making the 1931-S Wheat penny highly desirable. With only 866,000 minted, this coin is one of the rarest of the series.

• Current Value: Starts at around $80+ and can reach over $1,000 in mint condition.
• More Information: American Numismatic Association

6. 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny

During World War II, the U.S. Mint switched to steel pennies to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few 1943 pennies were mistakenly struck in bronze, making them among the most valuable Wheat pennies ever.

• Current Value: Authentic examples can sell for over $100,000 at auction.
• More Information: Smithsonian Numismatics

7. 1955 Doubled Die Obverse Wheat Penny

One of the most famous error coins, the 1955 Doubled Die Obverse penny was struck with a misaligned die, creating a noticeable doubling effect on the obverse text. This striking error makes it extremely desirable among collectors.

• Current Value: Starts at $1,100+ in lower grades and goes well over $10,000 in top condition.
• More Information: Professional Coin Grading Service

Final Thoughts

Collecting rare Wheat pennies is both a historical journey and a potentially lucrative hobby. If you suspect you have one of these rare pennies, consider having it authenticated by a professional grading service to determine its true value. With increasing demand and limited availability, these coins continue to appreciate over time.

For more on rare coins, visit the United States Mint or consult the American Numismatic Association for expert guidance on collecting and grading coins.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.