For collectors, Wheat Pennies are not just coins; they are historical treasures. Minted from 1909 to 1958, these pennies are cherished for their design and connection to President Abraham Lincoln’s legacy. While many of these coins are commonly found and hold sentimental value, certain rare varieties are highly prized and can command significant prices—sometimes thousands of dollars.
This article takes you through the world of rare Wheat Pennies, highlighting the variations that stand out due to unique features, minting errors, or limited production. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced numismatist, this guide will help you identify these valuable coins and understand what makes them so special.
Overview of Rare and Valuable Wheat Penny Variants
Coin | Unique Feature | Value Range |
---|---|---|
1909-S VDB | First Lincoln penny with the designer’s initials on the reverse | $500–$1,600+ |
1909-S | Early low mintage coin without initials | $70–$370 |
1909-S Over Horizontal S | Minting error with a misaligned “S” mintmark | $80–$400 |
1914-D | Rare penny with a low survival rate in high condition | $100–$400+ |
1917 Double Die Reverse | Die misalignment causes doubling in design/text | $160–$7,500+ |
The Legendary 1909-S VDB: A Coveted Collector’s Item
The 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny is one of the most famous coins in American numismatic history. Produced to commemorate the centennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, this penny featured the initials of its designer, Victor David Brenner, on the reverse. However, public backlash against the visibility of the initials led to their quick removal, making this coin incredibly rare. Only 484,000 of these were minted in San Francisco, adding to their allure.
The historical importance of the 1909-S VDB only enhances its value. Even circulated versions can fetch around $500, while coins in pristine, mint condition can exceed $1,600. For collectors, owning a 1909-S VDB is akin to owning a piece of American history.
The Rare 1975 “No S” Proof Dime: A Modern Numismatic Marvel
Another rare and valuable coin in the world of numismatics is the 1975 “No S” proof dime, a mistake that captured the attention of collectors and sold for $506,250.
1909-S: A First-Year Treasure
Another valuable coin from 1909 is the 1909-S Wheat Penny. Unlike the 1909-S VDB, this version lacks the controversial initials but remains highly sought after. With only 1.83 million of these coins minted, the 1909-S is among the rarer pieces in the series.
Though its design is simpler, this penny’s rarity makes it valuable, with typical specimens fetching $70 or more, while well-preserved coins can reach up to $370 in value.
1909-S Over Horizontal S: A Minting Error
Mint errors are a favorite among collectors, and the 1909-S Over Horizontal S is an excellent example. The minting error occurred when the “S” mintmark was originally stamped horizontally before being corrected to a vertical position. The overlapping mintmarks are visible under magnification, making this coin a highly desirable find. Depending on condition, it can be worth between $80 and $400.
The Rare 1914-D: A Penny Worth Hunting For
The 1914-D Wheat Penny is another rare coin due to its low survival rate. Although over a million were minted in Denver, very few are still in circulation, particularly in higher grades. Preservation plays a major role in the coin’s value—heavily worn examples are worth around $100, while coins in better condition can command $400 or more.
1917 Double Die Reverse: A Visual Masterpiece
The 1917 Double Die Reverse is one of the most striking error coins in the Wheat Penny series. This error occurred when the die struck the coin twice, creating a noticeable doubling effect in the design and text, especially in words like “TRUST” and the date. Collectors prize this error coin, with values ranging from $160 to a stunning $7,500 for coins in mint condition.