When most of us think of coins, we likely picture the familiar change jingling in our pockets or floating in the bottom of our bags. But what if I told you that some coins could be worth more than a brand-new Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle?
It may sound unbelievable, but it’s true! The Lincoln Wheat Penny, a coin that’s been around since 1909, has certain rarities that collectors go absolutely wild for—and some of them are worth thousands, even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
In this article, we’re going to dive into six rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies that could potentially be worth far more than that sleek new Kawasaki Ninja.
These pennies have unique features, minting errors, and historical significance that make them highly valuable. So, before you dismiss that old penny you find in your pocket, take a second look—you might be holding a small fortune!
What Makes the Lincoln Wheat Penny Special?
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was minted from 1909 to 1958, and it’s one of the most well-known coins in American history. Its iconic design features Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two stalks of wheat on the reverse, symbolizing the country’s agricultural roots.
However, it’s not just the design that makes these coins valuable—it’s their rarity, age, and the errors that occurred during their minting. Over the years, several of these coins have become highly sought after by collectors.
Now, let’s explore six rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies that are worth much more than you might think!
1. 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny
Why Is It Special?
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny is arguably one of the most famous and sought-after pennies in the world. Why? It was the very first year the Lincoln Wheat Penny was minted, and it carries the famous “VDB” initials of designer Victor David Brenner on the reverse. However, the “VDB” was removed after a public outcry, and only a limited number of coins with this mark were made.
The 1909-S VDB is a rarity because it was produced in San Francisco, and only around 484,000 of them were minted. As one of the first coins to feature the new Lincoln design, it’s a must-have for any serious numismatist.
How Much Is It Worth?
Depending on its condition, the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny can fetch anywhere from $1,000 to $50,000 or more. The better the condition, the higher the value. In perfect, uncirculated condition, it can reach eye-popping prices!
How To Spot It?
Look for the “VDB” initials on the reverse of the coin, located beneath the wheat stalks. The coin will also have the “S” mintmark to indicate it was minted in San Francisco.
2. 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny
Why Is It Special?
The 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny is another highly coveted coin. It was minted in Denver, and only about 1.2 million of these pennies were made, making it incredibly scarce. While the 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny was not initially considered a key date, it gained significant value due to its low mintage.
How Much Is It Worth?
Depending on the coin’s condition, the 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny can range in value from $1,000 to $10,000. If you happen to find one in excellent condition, you could be looking at a much higher price.
How To Spot It?
Look for the “D” mintmark on the reverse side of the coin, just beneath the word “ONE.” This indicates it was minted in Denver, which is key to determining its rarity.
3. 1922 No D Lincoln Wheat Penny
Why Is It Special?
In 1922, a small number of Lincoln Wheat Pennies were struck without a mintmark, making them one of the most famous error coins in U.S. history. The coin was intended to have a “D” mintmark, but due to a die error, some coins were produced without it. This mistake, which occurred at the Denver Mint, makes the 1922 No D Lincoln Wheat Penny a highly valuable and sought-after coin.
How Much Is It Worth?
The 1922 No D Lincoln Wheat Penny can be worth anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000, depending on its condition. Because of its rarity and the fascinating error behind its creation, this coin continues to be in high demand among collectors.
How To Spot It?
Look closely at the reverse side of the coin. If you see no mintmark beneath the word “ONE,” then you have a 1922 No D Lincoln Wheat Penny.
4. 1931-S Lincoln Wheat Penny
Why Is It Special?
The 1931-S Lincoln Wheat Penny is another rare coin that is highly valued by collectors. With only 866,000 coins minted at the San Francisco Mint, the 1931-S is considered one of the rarest pennies in the series. Due to its low mintage, finding this coin in good condition is a major win for any numismatist.
How Much Is It Worth?
In good condition, the 1931-S Lincoln Wheat Penny can be worth around $1,500, and in pristine condition, it can reach up to $30,000 or more.
How To Spot It?
Look for the “S” mintmark on the reverse, just below the word “ONE.” If you find one, check its condition—coins in mint state are highly prized.
5. 1955 Double Die Lincoln Wheat Penny
Why Is It Special?
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Wheat Penny is a famous error coin that was created when the die was misaligned during the minting process, causing a doubled image. The doubling can be seen in the lettering, date, and even Abraham Lincoln’s portrait, making it one of the most recognizable error coins in American history.
How Much Is It Worth?
The 1955 Double Die Lincoln Wheat Penny can be worth anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on its condition. This coin is especially valuable when it’s in mint condition with clear doubling on the design.
How To Spot It?
The best way to identify a 1955 Double Die Lincoln Wheat Penny is by looking closely at the date and the word “LIBERTY” on the obverse. The doubling will be obvious under magnification.
6. 1936 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Wheat Penny
Why Is It Special?
The 1936 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Wheat Penny features a double die error on the obverse, meaning the coin has a duplicated image. The doubling is noticeable in the lettering of the word “LIBERTY” and in the date, making this coin a sought-after rarity among collectors.
How Much Is It Worth?
The 1936 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Wheat Penny can sell for anywhere between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on its condition and the prominence of the doubling.
How To Spot It?
Look closely at the word “LIBERTY” and the date “1936.” The doubled design will be evident under magnification, particularly around the “L” and “Y” in “LIBERTY.”
Conclusion
Who knew that a simple penny could be worth more than a brand-new Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle? From the 1909-S VDB to the 1955 Double Die Lincoln Wheat Penny, these rare coins hold immense value due to their unique features, errors, and limited mintage.
If you happen to stumble upon one of these rare gems, you could be looking at a life-changing amount of money.
So, next time you sift through your spare change or examine an old collection, keep your eyes peeled for these six rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies. You might just be holding onto something far more valuable than you think!
FAQs
What makes the 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny so valuable?
The 1909-S VDB is one of the first Lincoln pennies, and its rarity and the designer’s initials on the coin make it highly sought after by collectors.
How can I spot a 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny?
Look for the “D” mintmark on the reverse side of the coin, just below the word “ONE.”
Why is the 1922 No D Lincoln Wheat Penny so valuable?
The 1922 No D Lincoln Wheat Penny is valuable because it was produced with a minting error, where the intended “D” mintmark was missing.
How much can a 1931-S Lincoln Wheat Penny sell for?
A 1931-S Lincoln Wheat Penny can sell for between $1,500 and $30,000 depending on its condition.
What is a double die error on a coin?
A double die error occurs when the coin is struck twice by the die, causing the design to appear doubled.
How do I identify a 1955 Double Die Lincoln Wheat Penny?
Look for clear doubling in the date “1955” and the word “LIBERTY” on the obverse of the coin.
How much is the 1936 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Wheat Penny worth?
The 1936 Double Die Obverse Lincoln Wheat Penny can be worth between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on its condition.
What is the “S” mintmark on a coin?
The “S” mintmark indicates that the coin was minted at the San Francisco Mint.
Where can I sell my rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies?
You can sell rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies through online auction platforms, coin dealers, or at numismatic conventions.
How do I preserve my Lincoln Wheat Pennies?
Store them in protective cases or holders to prevent damage and