Wheat Penny Price Guide 1909–1958
This guide gives practical value ranges and market tips for Lincoln wheat cents issued from 1909 through 1958. Use the chart and grading notes below to identify likely retail values for common and key dates. Always confirm high-value finds with a professional grader or dealer.
How values are determined
Wheat penny prices depend on date, mint mark, survival rate, and condition (grade). Key varieties and mint errors command premiums. Certified coins (PCGS, NGC) sell for higher, more consistent prices than raw coins.
Collector Value Chart 1909–1958 (Representative Ranges)
The chart below shows typical retail ranges by grade tier. Values are representative and will vary by market, eye appeal, and certification.
| Date / Mint | Common Circulated (G–F) | Choice Circulated to EF | Uncirculated (MS60) | Gem (MS65+) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Most Common Dates (e.g., 1910s, 1920s, 1930s common issues) | $0.05–$1 | $1–$20 | $20–$150 | $150–$900 |
| Key Dates: 1909 VDB, 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, 1931-S | $200–$1,000+ | $500–$5,000+ | $2,000–$50,000+ | Varies widely by grade, tens of thousands+ |
| Popular Varieties: 1955 Doubled Die Obverse | $50–$300 | $300–$2,000 | $2,000–$8,000 | $8,000–$50,000+ |
| 1943 Copper Cents (error) | Extremely rare | Tens of thousands+ | Hundreds of thousands to millions in top grades | Record sales have reached well into seven figures |
| 1943 Steel Common | $0.10–$2 | $2–$25 | $25–$200 | $200–$1,500 |
| Typical 1940s–1950s Common | $0.05–$0.50 | $0.50–$10 | $10–$100 | $100–$600 |
Notes on the chart
- Circulated = worn coins (grades G to VF). Uncirculated = no wear (MS60+).
- Values are retail ranges, not dealer buy prices. Dealer wholesale offers are typically lower.
- Key dates and mint errors can exceed ranges dramatically based on grade and verification.
Key Dates and Varieties to Watch
Certain years or mint-marks are historically important and collectable. Learn to spot them before selling or sending for certification.
- 1909 VDB and 1909-S VDB — first Lincoln cents and scarce. Very desirable.
- 1914-D — low mintage Denver issue often sought by collectors.
- 1931-S — scarce in high grades.
- 1955 Doubled Die Obverse — dramatic doubling visible on the date and lettering.
- 1943 copper cents — wartime planchet errors; extreme rarity and value when genuine.
Did You Know?
How to Grade and Authenticate
Start by looking at wear on the high points of Lincoln’s hair and cheek. Use a loupe (10x) to check for surface marks, corrosion, or cleaning, which reduce value.
For coins that appear valuable, seek third-party grading (PCGS, NGC). Certification provides market confidence and typically raises sale prices for high-grade and rare examples.
Market Insights and Selling Tips
Wheat penny prices follow collector demand, condition trends, and the bullion/coin market. Key points to consider before selling:
- Get multiple offers: compare local dealers, online dealers, and auction results.
- Certified coins sell more predictably; raw coins may fetch less but avoid grading fees for low-value items.
- Document provenance and prior sales if available—this can help for high-end pieces.
- Watch auction results for recent realized prices of identical date and grade.
Small Real-World Case Study
A collector found a circulated 1909-VDB while sorting an old change lot. They had the piece authenticated and slabbed by a major grading service. After certification, the collector sold the coin at auction to a specialist dealer for a price several times the local dealer offers they had originally received. Certification and targeted selling produced the best return.
Practical Steps if You Find a Potentially Valuable Wheat Penny
- Handle minimally and store in a soft holder to avoid scratches.
- Compare to reliable references and look for known varieties.
- Consult a reputable coin dealer or third-party grader for authentication.
- Decide whether to sell raw, obtain certification, or consign to auction based on estimated value.
Use this Wheat Penny Price Guide 1909–1958 as a starting point. For exact current market prices consult up-to-date auction records, price guides, and certified sales databases before making a buying or selling decision.