If you’re into coin collecting or just found an old penny in your pocket, you might be sitting on a small fortune. Wheat pennies, especially rare ones, are among the most collected and valuable coins in U.S. history. Produced between 1909 and 1958, these coins feature two wheat stalks on the reverse and the image of Abraham Lincoln on the front. While many are common, a few specific wheat pennies are incredibly rare and highly sought after by collectors.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 9 rare wheat pennies that you should definitely keep an eye out for. From famous mint errors like the 1955 Doubled Die to key dates like the 1909-S VDB, we’ll also explore how much each coin is worth today. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced collector, this guide will help you understand which wheat pennies deserve a special place in your collection.
1. 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny
The 1909-S VDB wheat penny is one of the most famous and valuable Lincoln cents. It was the first year the Lincoln cent was released, and the designer, Victor David Brenner, included his initials “VDB” on the reverse of the coin. However, there was public backlash about the prominence of the initials, so the U.S. Mint quickly removed them. As a result, only a limited number of the 1909 pennies were made with both the San Francisco mint mark (S) and the VDB initials.
Only about 484,000 of these coins exist, making it a top collectible. If you find one in worn condition, it might still be worth around $700 to $1,200, while uncirculated examples can fetch over $3,000 to $5,000 or more. Collectors highly value this penny not only for its rarity but also for its historical importance as the beginning of the Lincoln series.
2. 1914-D Wheat Penny
The 1914-D wheat penny is another rare coin that collectors seek. Minted in Denver, this penny had a relatively low mintage of about 1.2 million, which is small compared to other pennies from the era. The “D” mint mark, located under the date, indicates it was produced at the Denver Mint. Over the years, many of these coins were lost or worn down in circulation, making well-preserved examples even rarer.
A heavily worn one might still be worth $150 to $300, while coins in better condition often sell for $1,500 to $5,000 or higher. Counterfeits do exist, so authenticity is important when buying or selling one. This coin is popular not only because of its rarity but also due to its early place in the Lincoln cent series, and it represents a real challenge for those building a full wheat penny set.
3. 1922 “No D” Wheat Penny
The 1922 “No D” wheat penny is unique because it was only minted in Denver, yet some coins were struck without the “D” mint mark. This minting error occurred because the die used became filled with debris or was improperly prepared, causing the “D” to disappear. This created a variety of the 1922 penny that appears to have no mint mark at all. Most pennies from 1922 have a “D,” so a version without it is considered quite rare and desirable among collectors.
These coins can fetch anywhere from $500 to over $10,000, depending on their condition. A certified and authentic 1922 No D in great shape can command top dollar at auctions. Because it’s a striking mint error and an unusual occurrence in the Lincoln cent series, this penny continues to generate excitement among numismatists and adds a special twist to the hunt for rare coins.
4. 1931-S Wheat Penny
With a mintage of only 866,000, the 1931-S wheat penny is one of the lowest mintage Lincoln cents from the 20th century. It was produced during the Great Depression, a time when fewer coins were needed due to lower economic activity. As a result, fewer people saved these coins, making them harder to find today. Though not as valuable as some earlier dates, the 1931-S still holds a special place in collections.
A well-worn version may bring in around $60 to $100, but higher-grade examples can sell for $150 to $600 or more. Uncirculated versions are especially sought after and may reach $1,000+ depending on their grade and appearance. The 1931-S is often one of the last coins needed to complete a set, so demand remains strong. It’s a must-have for collectors looking to complete the early Lincoln cent years.
5. 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny
The 1943 bronze wheat penny is one of the most famous error coins in American history. During World War II, copper was needed for military supplies, so the U.S. Mint switched to using zinc-coated steel for pennies. However, a few bronze planchets (coin blanks) from 1942 were left in the machines and accidentally struck with the 1943 date.
Only a handful of these bronze 1943 pennies were produced, and they are extremely valuable today. Depending on the condition, one of these coins can be worth anywhere from $100,000 to over $1 million. In fact, one sold for over $1.7 million at auction. Most 1943 pennies are steel and will stick to a magnet. A true bronze version will not. Because of its rarity and the mystery surrounding its accidental creation, the 1943 bronze penny is often considered the “Holy Grail” of Lincoln cents.
6. 1944 Steel Wheat Penny
The 1944 steel wheat penny is the opposite of the 1943 bronze penny. In 1944, the U.S. Mint returned to using copper for pennies, but a few steel planchets from the previous year were left in the presses. These steel pennies, which should not exist for the 1944 issue, are extremely rare. Most were minted at the Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco mints, but any 1944 penny made of steel is considered highly collectible.
These coins are magnetic and have a silver appearance. If genuine, they can be worth $30,000 to $75,000 or more depending on the mint and condition. The 1944 steel penny is often confused with the common 1943 steel version, so careful testing and certification are essential. Because they are error coins from a significant historical period, collectors treasure these pieces for both their rarity and story.
7. 1955 Doubled Die Wheat Penny
The 1955 doubled die wheat penny is one of the most famous error coins in the U.S. Mint’s history. A doubled die error happens when the coin’s design is imprinted twice in slightly different positions, creating a noticeable doubling of the letters and numbers. On this coin, the doubling is especially clear on the date “1955” and the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” This striking error caught the attention of collectors early on, and demand has remained high ever since.
A circulated example might still fetch $800 to $1,500, while mint condition versions can sell for $5,000 to $15,000 or more. Due to its popularity and visibility, many counterfeits exist, so professional grading is essential. The dramatic doubling effect makes this coin an iconic piece for error collectors and a fun discovery for anyone lucky enough to find one.
8. 1909-S Wheat Penny (No VDB)
The 1909-S wheat penny without the VDB initials is also highly collectible, although it’s not as rare as the VDB version. With only 1.8 million produced, it’s still one of the key dates in the Lincoln cent series. Collectors value it for being part of the first-year issue and because it was minted in San Francisco in relatively low numbers. The main difference from the 1909-S VDB is the absence of the designer’s initials on the back. Despite that, it remains a significant coin.
In lower grades, this penny can be worth $100 to $300, while higher-grade versions can reach $500 to over $1,500. Since it’s an early Lincoln cent and relatively scarce, it’s a must-have for those putting together a full set. Its connection to the start of the Lincoln penny series adds historical appeal that continues to attract collectors.
9. 1917 Doubled Die Obverse Wheat Penny
The 1917 doubled die obverse wheat penny is another well-known and valuable error coin. This error occurs when the design on the front of the coin is stamped twice, causing doubling of certain features. In this case, doubling is visible on the date “1917” and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Unlike the more famous 1955 doubled die, the 1917 version is less dramatic but still clear under magnification.
The coin’s value depends heavily on the clarity of the doubling and its overall condition. A worn example may be worth $100 to $300, but well-preserved specimens can reach $1,000 to $3,000 or more. Because of its age and the limited number of known examples, this doubled die penny is a prized find for collectors. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy error coins or want to add a unique early Lincoln cent to their collection.
Conclusion
Rare wheat pennies are not only pieces of American history but also valuable collector’s items. Owning even one of these coins can significantly boost the worth of your collection. From early key dates to rare mint errors, these nine wheat pennies continue to attract collectors and investors alike.
If you happen to come across one, especially in good condition, it could be worth hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars. Always verify authenticity and consider professional grading for high-value coins. Keep hunting—you never know when you might find a treasure in your pocket change.
What makes a wheat penny rare?
A wheat penny becomes rare due to factors like low mintage, minting errors, or historical significance. Coins like the 1909-S VDB or 1943 bronze penny are valuable because few were made or survived.
Are all wheat pennies worth money?
Not all wheat pennies are valuable. Most common dates (especially after 1940) are only worth a few cents. However, rare dates or error coins can be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars.
How can I tell if my wheat penny is valuable?
Check the date, mint mark, and condition. Rare coins often have specific dates (like 1914-D) or errors (like doubled dies). Professional grading can also help determine a coin’s true value.
Where can I sell rare wheat pennies?
You can sell rare wheat pennies through coin dealers, auctions, or online marketplaces like eBay. For valuable coins, it’s best to get them professionally appraised or graded before selling.