The Top 6 Wheat Pennies Worth Over $50,000 and Rising

Lincoln Wheat pennies, minted between 1909 and 1958, are some of the most sought-after coins among collectors and investors.

These pennies, rich in history and rarity, have fetched staggering amounts at auctions, with some valued at over $50,000! Their value often comes from unique errors, limited production, and historical significance.

If you’re curious about which Wheat pennies are the rarest and most valuable, read on as we explore six coins that have gained legendary status in the world of numismatics. Plus, we’ll answer some common questions about collecting these treasures.

Top 6 Most Valuable Lincoln Wheat Pennies

1. 1943-D Bronze Wheat Penny

Why It’s Valuable: This penny is the rarest of all Lincoln Wheat pennies. In 1943, due to copper shortages during World War II, the U.S. Mint used zinc-coated steel for pennies. However, a few bronze planchets were mistakenly used at the Denver Mint.
How Rare Is It? Only one is known to exist!
Auction Record: This coin sold for a record-breaking $840,000 in January 2021, making it the most valuable Wheat penny ever.
Collector’s Dream: The 1943-D Bronze Penny is like finding a unicorn—legendary and priceless.

2. 1943-S Bronze Wheat Penny

Why It’s Valuable: Similar to the Denver Mint error, a few bronze planchets were also mistakenly used at the San Francisco Mint.
How Rare Is It? Only about six are known to exist.
Auction Record: One of these sold for $504,000 in November 2020.
Special Appeal: Its rarity and historical significance make it a standout in coin-collecting circles.

3. 1944-S Steel Wheat Penny

Why It’s Valuable: In 1944, the Mint returned to copper pennies, but a few leftover steel planchets from 1943 were accidentally used at the San Francisco Mint.
How Rare Is It? Only two are known to exist.
Auction Record: One of these ultra-rare pennies fetched $408,000 at an auction in August 2021.
Unique Feature: This penny is an excellent example of how small errors can create monumental value.

4. 1943 Bronze Wheat Penny (Philadelphia Mint)

Why It’s Valuable: The Philadelphia Mint also accidentally produced a few bronze pennies in 1943. These were supposed to be made from steel, like their counterparts.
How Rare Is It? Around 20 of these pennies are believed to exist.
Auction Record: A mint-state 1943 Bronze Penny sold for $372,000 in February 2021.
What Makes It Special: Its rarity and connection to World War II make it a collector’s favorite.

5. 1958 Doubled Die Obverse Wheat Penny

Why It’s Valuable: This penny has a visible error on the obverse (front) side, where the design was accidentally doubled during the minting process.
How Rare Is It? Fewer than 20 examples are known to exist.
Auction Record: A 1958 Doubled Die Penny graded MS64RD sold for $336,000 in March 2018.
Collector’s Prize: The doubled lettering makes it one of the most fascinating and visually distinct error coins.

6. 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny

Why It’s Valuable: This penny was among the first Lincoln Wheat pennies ever produced and features the initials of its designer, Victor David Brenner (VDB).
How Rare Is It? Only 484,000 were minted, making it extremely rare.
Auction Record: A pristine 1909-S VDB penny graded MS67RD sold for $168,000 in April 2022.
Historical Significance: Its connection to the introduction of Lincoln pennies adds to its appeal.

Why Are These Wheat Pennies So Valuable?

Several factors contribute to the value of these coins:

Factor	Description
Rarity	Limited production or minting errors make these coins exceptionally hard to find.
Historical Importance	Coins from significant periods, like World War II, hold added value.
Condition	Well-preserved coins in near-mint condition command higher prices.
Collector Demand	High demand among numismatists drives up auction prices for unique or rare coins.
Grading	Professional grading services authenticate and certify coins, boosting their market value.

Investing in Lincoln Wheat Pennies

Collecting Lincoln Wheat pennies is more than just a hobby—it’s a journey through American history. Whether you’re drawn to their historical significance or their potential as an investment, these pennies have proven their worth over time.

For beginners, start with common Wheat pennies and gradually learn to identify rare ones. Professional grading services like PCGS or NGC can help authenticate coins and ensure you get fair market value if you decide to sell.

So, dig into your coin jar—you might just have a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered!

FAQs

What is included in the Pet Simulator Happy Meal?

Check for unique errors, mint marks, and the year of production. Rare coins like the 1943 Bronze or 1958 Doubled Die often stand out because of these characteristics.

What is the best way to store Wheat pennies?

Store them in a coin album or protective case to prevent damage. Avoid handling them with bare hands to maintain their condition.

Are all Wheat pennies valuable?

No, most Wheat pennies are worth only a few cents to a few dollars. However, rare error coins or those in mint condition can be worth thousands.

Where can I sell a valuable Wheat penny?

You can sell them through reputable auction houses, coin dealers, or online platforms like eBay. Professional grading can help you get the best price.

Should I invest in Wheat pennies?

If you enjoy collecting and are informed about rare coins, investing in Wheat pennies can be rewarding. Focus on error coins or well-preserved examples for the best returns.