Wheat pennies are a special part of U.S. coin history. These pennies were produced from 1909 to 1958 and feature a design with two stalks of wheat on the reverse side. While most wheat pennies are not worth much, certain rare ones can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars at auction. If you’re a coin collector or just curious, you might be surprised by the value of some of these pennies. In this article, we’ll explore seven rare wheat pennies that could make a big impact at an auction, showing just how valuable these small coins can be.
1. 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny
The 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny is one of the most famous and valuable wheat pennies in history. The “VDB” stands for the initials of the designer, Victor David Brenner, who included his initials on the reverse of the penny. The 1909-S VDB was the first penny to have these initials, but it was quickly recalled due to public complaints. Because of this, only a small number of these pennies were made. A well-preserved 1909-S VDB can be worth over $1,000, and in exceptional condition, it can fetch even more.
2. 1914-D Wheat Penny
The 1914-D Wheat Penny is another rare and valuable coin. The “D” mintmark indicates it was struck in Denver, and this coin is known for its scarcity. While millions of 1914 Wheat Pennies were produced, only a small percentage were made at the Denver mint. Because of its low mintage, a 1914-D in good condition can be worth anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the coin’s condition.
3. 1922 No D Wheat Penny
The 1922 No D Wheat Penny is a well-known error coin. During the production of these pennies, some of the dies used to strike the coins were worn out or damaged, which resulted in the “D” mintmark being missing from some coins. This error makes the 1922 No D penny incredibly rare and valuable. Depending on the condition, these coins can be worth thousands of dollars at auction.
4. 1931-S Wheat Penny
The 1931-S Wheat Penny is another rare coin. While the mintage of this penny was not as low as some other rare wheat pennies, it is still considered scarce. This coin is valuable because it was produced in San Francisco, and only a limited number of them were struck. In excellent condition, the 1931-S Wheat Penny can be worth up to $500 or more, making it an important find for collectors.
5. 1955 Double Die Wheat Penny
The 1955 Double Die Wheat Penny is famous for its error. The die used to strike these pennies was misaligned, resulting in the date and lettering being doubled. This error made the 1955 Double Die Wheat Penny one of the most sought-after coins among collectors. Depending on the condition, these pennies can be worth several thousand dollars. A well-preserved example could easily make a big impact at auction.
6. 1910-S Wheat Penny
The 1910-S Wheat Penny is a rare coin because it was minted in San Francisco, and its production was limited. While many 1910 pennies were made, fewer of the San Francisco versions were struck, making this coin harder to find. A 1910-S penny in good condition can be worth a few hundred dollars, but if it’s in exceptional condition, it can fetch much more.
7. 1924-D Wheat Penny
The 1924-D Wheat Penny, minted in Denver, is rare because of its low production number. While it is not as well-known as some of the other rare wheat pennies, it is still highly valuable to collectors. The value of this coin depends on its condition, but a well-preserved 1924-D can easily fetch hundreds of dollars at auction.
Table of Rare Wheat Pennies
| Coin Name | Year | Mintmark | Key Features | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny | 1909 | S | Rare penny with designer’s initials | $1,000+ |
| 1914-D Wheat Penny | 1914 | D | Low mintage from Denver | $500 – $3,000+ |
| 1922 No D Wheat Penny | 1922 | None | Error coin, missing “D” mintmark | $1,000 – $10,000+ |
| 1931-S Wheat Penny | 1931 | S | Limited production from San Francisco | $500+ |
| 1955 Double Die Wheat Penny | 1955 | None | Misaligned die, double date and lettering | $1,000 – $5,000+ |
| 1910-S Wheat Penny | 1910 | S | Rare mintmark from San Francisco | $300 – $1,000+ |
| 1924-D Wheat Penny | 1924 | D | Low production from Denver | $200 – $500+ |
Conclusion
Wheat pennies might seem like ordinary coins at first glance, but some rare versions can be worth a lot of money. The 1909-S VDB and 1922 No D Wheat Pennies, along with other scarce versions like the 1914-D and 1931-S, are particularly valuable. If you have any of these rare wheat pennies in your collection, they could be worth more than you realize. Be sure to get them appraised, as they might make a big impact at auction. Coin collecting can be a rewarding hobby, and with the right rare finds, it can also be a profitable one.
FAQs
1. What makes the 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny so valuable?
The 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny is valuable because it was the first penny to feature the designer’s initials, and most of these coins were recalled, making it rare and highly sought after by collectors.
2. Why is the 1922 No D Wheat Penny so rare?
The 1922 No D Wheat Penny is rare because it was struck with a damaged die, causing the “D” mintmark to be missing. This error makes it a highly valuable coin for collectors.
3. How can I tell if my wheat penny is worth a lot of money?
To determine if your wheat penny is worth a lot, check its year, mintmark, and condition. Rare versions, such as those with errors or low mintage, are typically the most valuable.
4. Where can I sell my rare wheat penny?
You can sell rare wheat pennies at coin shops, online auctions, or to private collectors. It’s best to have your coin appraised first to understand its value.
5. How much can I expect to get for a 1955 Double Die Wheat Penny?
A 1955 Double Die Wheat Penny can be worth several thousand dollars, depending on its condition. Well-preserved coins can fetch even higher prices at auction.