Wheat pennies are the beloved Lincoln cents minted from 1909 to 1958 with two wheat stalks on the reverse. Nicknamed “wheaties,” they were the first U.S. coin to feature a real person—Abraham Lincoln—on the obverse.
A Quick History of the Iconic Lincoln Wheat Cent
Designed by Victor David Brenner in 1909 to celebrate Lincoln’s 100th birthday, over 27 billion were struck across Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco mints. The classic wheat design lasted exactly 50 years until the Memorial reverse replaced it in 1959.
How Much Have Wheat Penny Values Really Risen (2013–2025)?
In the last 12 years, average collector-grade wheat pennies jumped from ~8–12¢ each to 20–40¢ each in bulk. But rare dates and errors? Some have rocketed 300–1,000% thanks to social media, YouTube coin hunters, and new collectors entering the hobby.
The Rarest & Most Valuable Wheat Pennies Today
| Rank | Coin | Record Sale (Recent) | Approx 2013 Value | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1943 Bronze (Copper) | $1,700,000+ | ~$100,000 | 1,600%+ |
| 2 | 1944 Steel Penny | $180,000+ | ~$15,000 | 1,100% |
| 3 | 1909-S VDB | $120,000 (MS67+) | ~$25,000 | 380% |
| 4 | 1914-D | $9,500 (MS66) | ~$2,200 | 330% |
| 5 | 1922 No D (Strong Reverse) | $18,000 (MS64) | ~$4,500 | 300% |
Key Date Wheat Pennies Price Comparison (2013 vs 2025)
| Year | Grade | 2013 Avg Price | 2025 Avg Price | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | VF-20 | $650 | $1,600 | 146% |
| 1914-D | VF-20 | $175 | $450 | 157% |
| 1931-S | XF-45 | $95 | $275 | 189% |
| 1922 No D | VG-8 | $450 | $1,200 | 166% |
| Common 1940s rolls | — | $3–$5 per roll | $12–$18 per roll | 300%+ |
Where to Find Wheat Pennies in 2025
- Coin roll hunting at banks (still works!)
- Estate sales & garage sales
- eBay “unsearched” lots (buyer beware)
- Local coin shops – many still have jars for 10–25¢ each
Expert Tips to Start or Grow Your Collection
- Always check the 1930s and early 1940s first.
- Look for doubled dies (1941, 1955) – they’re worth 10–100x more.
- Never clean your coins – it destroys value.
- Store in 2×2 cardboard flips or albums, not PVC plastic.
- Use the free PCGS CoinFacts app to check values instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all wheat pennies valuable?
A: No, most 1940s–1950s are still just 3–25¢ each, but the thrill is finding that one rare date!
Q: What’s the holy grail?
A: The 1943 bronze penny – only about 15–20 known.
Q: Should I get my wheat pennies graded?
A: Only if they’re in amazing condition (MS65+) or obvious rarities.
Final Thoughts – Your Pocket Change Could Be a Goldmine
Over the last 12 years, wheat pennies have proven they’re far more than childhood memories. From everyday rolls now costing 4x more to million-dollar errors, the market keeps climbing. Grab a handful next time you see them, check those key dates, and who knows—you might already own a tiny piece of numismatic history worth hundreds or thousands. Happy hunting, and may your next wheat penny be the one that changes everything!