The Lincoln Wheat Pennies issued between 1909 and 1958 were one of the most popular and most valuable coins that the U.S. mint has ever produced to date. Some of the notable dates still fetch high market prices in 2025 because of the rarity, historical value, and demand by the collectors.
Key Dates Worth Keeping
– 1909-S: VDB This is the most well-known Wheat Penny, with the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner. The coin in question is very valuable due to low mintage.
– 1914-D: This is a rare Denver mint coin and has low number of production, which makes this coin very valuable to collectors.
– 1922 No D / same error: No mintmark on coin meaning it was minted in Denver which is very rare.
– 1931-S: There is a very limited number of minted Wheat Penny in San Francisco mint of this type.
– 1943 Copper Penny: It is an error in minting of penny coins during the war and the copper coins were accidentally printed in the year 1943, rather than steel, and are very valuable.
| Date/Mintmark | Condition | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | MS-60 to MS-65 | $5,000 – $20,000+ |
| 1914-D | VF to MS-63 | $1,000 – $10,000+ |
| 1922 No D | VF to AU | $10,000 – $30,000+ |
| 1931-S | EF to MS-63 | $1,000 – $12,000+ |
| 1943 Copper | MS-60 and above | $400,000 to over $1 million |
The reason why these Pennies are so valuable.
– These major dates and mint marks are rare as they come in limited amounts.
– Minting defects, such as 1922 No D and 1943 Copper Penny are conveniently sought after.
– Condition and grading Coins in very fine condition or coins that have never been circulated attract very high prices.
– Numismatic and historical value Teasing out critical events in American coin production and history.
Tips for Collectors in 2025
– Attend to the important date pennies in the best possible state.
– Have professional grading such as PCGS or NGC to get the grading and greater market value.
– Be alert and strange coins, located, in particular issues of high value.
These are the most important Wheat Pennies, which remain worth retaining in 2025 as a combination of historical and rare items with financial value.
