Top 10 Rare and Valuable Wheat Pennies to Know

Discover the top 10 rarest wheat pennies that are highly sought after by collectors. From key dates like 1914-D to mint errors such as 1944 Steel Cent, learn about valuable coins, their unique features, and how to identify and preserve them. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or a hobbyist, this guide offers essential insights into valuable wheat pennies worth exploring and collecting with care.

The wheat penny, also known as the wheat cent, remains a favorite among coin collectors. Chances are, you’ve come across a few in your pocket change. When preserved in good condition, these coins can fetch significant prices. To maximize their value, aim to sell coins that haven't circulated extensively, as mint condition coins tend to be more valuable.

Top 10 Most Sought-After Wheat Pennies

1909-S VDB

The 1909-S VDB is among the most desirable wheat pennies from the early era, with approximately 484,000 units produced.

Even in poor condition, a 1909-S VDB can sell for at least $700. ‘VDB’ refers to Victor David Brenner, whose initials appear on the coin's reverse below the wheat stalks.

1909-S Over Horizontal S

This 1909-S coin features a rare Mint Mark error where the ‘S’ was initially punched in the wrong direction and later corrected by adding a second ‘S’, creating a distinct RPM — Repunched Mint Mark. Before 1990, mint marks were added manually, which accounts for such errors.

1922-D No D

The 1922-D Lincoln Wheat Penny is unique because it lacks the expected ‘D’ mint mark, which was only applied by the Denver Mint. Due to manufacturing pressures, many coins in this series were produced without the mint mark, making this coin particularly collectible.

1909-S

A highly popular and affordable collectible, the 1909-S wheat penny can be valued at least $80. With 1,825,000 minted, it’s considered relatively rare and desired by collectors worldwide.

1917 Doubled Die Obverse

The 1917 Doubled Die Obverse features significant doubling in the word “TRUST” and the date on the coin’s front. Due to the tiny doubled details, a magnifying glass is needed to distinguish this error and enhance its value.

1931-S

Produced under challenging conditions, only 866,000 Lincoln cents were struck at the San Francisco mint in 1931. These coins are regarded as key dates in the series, with early grades valued at a minimum of $80.

1914-D

The 1914-D is the most valuable non-error wheat penny, with a low mintage of only 1,193,000 pieces. Its rarity means it’s hard to find in circulation, and many specimens are preserved in uncirculated condition. Caution is advised to avoid counterfeit copies.

1944 S Over S

This error coin features an ‘S’ mintmark that was originally punched into the die, then partially erased and overpunched with a ‘D’ due to a minting mistake. Detailed examination with a magnifier reveals the overlapping S and D marks.

1944 Steel Cent

A rare accident from 1944, the steel cent was produced by mistake, possibly from leftover steel blanks or foreign coin remnants. Only about 25 to 30 are believed to exist, making it the rarest wheat penny and highly valuable.

1943 Bronze Cent

During World War II, copper was diverted for war effort purposes, leading to the mint producing steel cents, but some copper planchets from 1943 were accidentally struck, creating valuable specimens. Due to their rarity and historical significance, these coins are highly prized among collectors.

Collector’s appreciation for wheat pennies depends on both rarity and condition. Proper handling and preservation are essential to maintain their value. Collect for passion, and ensure your coins are stored carefully to preserve their worth.