You might have a small fortune sitting in your pocket or coin jar without even knowing it. Lincoln Wheat Pennies, minted from 1909 to 1958, are some of the most collectible coins in the United States. While most are worth just a cent, a few rare ones can fetch thousands or even millions at auction. These coins, with their iconic wheat stalk design on the back, have caught the attention of collectors for years. Let’s dive into seven rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies that could be hiding in your change and what makes them so special.
The 1909-S VDB Penny
One of the most famous Lincoln Wheat Pennies is the 1909-S VDB. This coin was the first in the series, and the “VDB” stands for Victor David Brenner, the designer. Only 484,000 were made at the San Francisco Mint, making it super rare. If you find one in great condition, it could be worth $100,000 or more. Look for the “S” mint mark under the date and the tiny “VDB” initials on the back near the rim. Even worn ones can sell for hundreds of dollars.
The 1914-D Penny
Another gem is the 1914-D Lincoln Penny, minted in Denver. With just 1.2 million produced, it’s a tough one to find. In top condition, this coin can bring in $150,000 or higher at auction. Check for the “D” mint mark under the date. Even if it’s a bit worn, collectors will pay thousands for it. This penny is a favorite because of its low mintage and historical value.
The 1922 No D Penny
The 1922 No D Penny is a mistake coin, which makes it extra exciting. In 1922, the Denver Mint accidentally left off the “D” mint mark on some pennies, creating a rare variety. These coins are worth $10,000 or more in good shape. To spot one, look for a 1922 penny with no mint mark at all. Be careful, though, some people try to fake this one by grinding off the “D.”
The 1931-S Penny
The 1931-S Lincoln Penny is another low-mintage coin, with only 866,000 made. The Great Depression meant fewer coins were minted that year, so this one is a collector’s dream. In excellent condition, it can sell for $8,000 or more. Look for the “S” mint mark and make sure the coin’s details, like Lincoln’s face and the wheat stalks, are sharp.
Other Notable Rare Pennies
A few other Lincoln Wheat Pennies are worth mentioning. The 1909-S (without VDB) is scarce, with a mintage of 1.8 million, and can fetch $1,000 or more in good condition. The 1917 Doubled Die Obverse has a noticeable doubling in the date and words like “IN GOD WE TRUST,” making it worth thousands. Finally, the 1955 Doubled Die Obverse is famous for its bold doubling, and one in great shape can sell for $20,000 or higher.
| Coin | Mintage | Estimated Value (Good Condition) |
|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | 484,000 | $100,000+ |
| 1914-D | 1.2 million | $150,000+ |
| Coin | Key Feature | Estimated Value (Worn) |
|---|---|---|
| 1922 No D | No mint mark | $10,000+ |
| 1931-S | “S” mint mark | $8,000+ |
Tips for Finding These Coins
Start by checking your loose change, old piggy banks, or inherited coin collections. Look closely at the dates and mint marks, using a magnifying glass if needed. If you think you’ve found a rare penny, have it checked by a professional coin grader to confirm its authenticity and condition. These rare Lincoln Wheat Pennies are like hidden treasures, and with a bit of luck, you might just find one in your pocket change.