Lincoln Wheat Penny (1909–1958)
United States · 1 Cent · 1909–1958
The Lincoln Wheat Penny (1909–1958) is a Bronze (95% copper) 1 Cent coin from 1909–1958. Its estimated value is $0.05 – $5 in circulated condition, up to $50 in uncirculated grade. Higher-grade examples may be worth more depending on condition, mint mark, rarity, and recent sales.
Estimated value
| Typical circulated value | $0.05 – $5 |
| High-grade reference (UNC) | up to $50 |
| Data confidence | Medium |
Actual value depends on condition, mint mark, and recent sales.
Found this coin?
Scan it with Numis to confirm the mint mark, condition, and estimated value range.
Coin details
| Country | United States |
| Denomination | 1 Cent |
| Year | 1909–1958 |
| Metal | Bronze (95% copper) |
| Weight | 3.11 g |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
How to identify this coin
Start with the denomination, year, mint mark, and metal. Then compare both sides of the coin with the design notes below.
Profile of Abraham Lincoln, with LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and the date.
Two wheat ears framing ONE CENT and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA — the design that gives the coin its name.
Rarity and collector notes
Most Wheat pennies are common and worth a few cents. Key dates are the exception: the 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 'no D', 1931-S, and the rare 1943 copper and 1944 steel error cents can be worth hundreds to many thousands.
Always check the date and mint mark below the date. A magnet test helps spot the valuable 1943 copper error (steel 1943 cents stick to a magnet; the rare copper ones do not).
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Lincoln Wheat Penny (1909–1958) worth? +
A Lincoln Wheat Penny (1909–1958) is typically worth $0.05 – $5 in circulated condition, with high-grade uncirculated examples reaching up to $50. Coin values are estimates and may vary based on condition, grade, rarity, demand, and recent sales. Numis does not provide certified appraisal or investment advice.
What metal is the Lincoln Wheat Penny (1909–1958) made of? +
The Lincoln Wheat Penny (1909–1958) is made of Bronze (95% copper) and weighs about 3.11 grams with a diameter of 19 mm.
How do I identify a Lincoln Wheat Penny (1909–1958)? +
Scan this coin with Numis to confirm mint mark, condition, and value range. Also check the denomination, year, mint mark, metal, and the obverse and reverse designs listed on this page.
Is the Lincoln Wheat Penny (1909–1958) rare? +
Most Wheat pennies are common and worth a few cents. Key dates are the exception: the 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1922 'no D', 1931-S, and the rare 1943 copper and 1944 steel error cents can be worth hundreds to many thousands.
Coin values are estimates and may vary based on condition, grade, rarity, demand, and recent sales. Numis does not provide certified appraisal or investment advice.
Sources
General US numismatic references. Last updated 2026-07-14.