10 Rare Wheat Pennies Worth Big Money: Wheat pennies remain one of the most collected coins in American history. Officially known as the Lincoln Wheat cent, this iconic coin was minted from 1909 to 1958 and features two wheat stalks on the reverse. While millions were produced, certain dates and mint errors have become legendary among collectors. Some rare examples have sold for tens of thousands and even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
If you have old pennies tucked away in jars, drawers, or inherited collections, it may be time to take a closer look. Below are ten rare Wheat pennies that continue to command serious money in today’s collector market.
1909 S VDB Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln cent is perhaps the most famous Wheat penny of all time. It was the first year of issue for the Lincoln cent series, designed by Victor David Brenner. His initials VDB appeared prominently on the reverse, which caused public controversy at the time.
The San Francisco Mint struck only 484,000 of these coins before the initials were removed. That low mintage makes it a key date for collectors. Even heavily worn examples can sell for over $1,000, while high grade specimens regularly reach five figures. Pristine mint state coins have sold for significantly more at major auctions.
1914 D Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln cent is another major key date in the Wheat penny series. Struck at the Denver Mint, this coin had a relatively low mintage compared to other years.
Many examples were heavily circulated, making high grade survivors extremely rare. Because of its importance in completing a Wheat penny collection, demand remains strong. In lower grades it can sell for several hundred to a few thousand dollars. In mint state condition, prices can climb well beyond $20,000.
1922 No D Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln cent is a fascinating error coin. In 1922, only the Denver Mint produced Lincoln cents. However, due to worn dies, some coins were struck without a visible D mintmark.
Collectors quickly recognized this unusual variety. Genuine examples with a strong reverse and missing mintmark are highly valuable. Depending on condition, they can range from several hundred dollars to over $30,000 for top quality pieces.
1931 S Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln cent was minted during the Great Depression, when coin production slowed dramatically. Only 866,000 were struck, making it one of the lowest mintages in the entire Wheat penny series.
Unlike some earlier key dates, many 1931 S cents were saved by collectors at the time. Even so, demand remains high. Circulated examples often sell for over $100, while uncirculated pieces can reach several thousand dollars.
1943 Bronze Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln cent is one of the most famous error coins in American history. During World War II, pennies were made from steel coated with zinc to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a small number of bronze planchets from 1942 were accidentally used in 1943.
These rare bronze 1943 cents are incredibly valuable. Only a handful are known to exist. Authentic examples have sold for well over $100,000, with some crossing the million dollar mark. If you find a 1943 penny that does not stick to a magnet, it is worth immediate professional evaluation.
1944 Steel Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln cent is the opposite error of the 1943 bronze cent. In 1944, pennies returned to copper composition. However, a few leftover steel planchets were mistakenly used.
These steel 1944 cents are extremely rare. Because they resemble the common 1943 steel cents, careful testing is required. Verified examples have sold for tens of thousands of dollars, depending on condition and mintmark.
1955 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln cent is one of the most dramatic and popular error coins ever produced. Strong doubling is visible on the obverse lettering and date, making it easy to identify with the naked eye.
Thousands entered circulation before the error was caught. Today, collectors prize this variety for its bold appearance and historical significance. Prices typically range from several thousand dollars in circulated grades to over $50,000 for high grade examples.
1909 S Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln cent without the VDB initials is another important first year issue. Although more were produced than the 1909 S VDB, it remains scarce and desirable.
Collectors seeking a complete 1909 set must acquire this coin. Depending on condition, values can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars. High grade pieces with strong detail and original color bring premium prices.
1917 Doubled Die Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln cent is a lesser known but valuable variety. Doubling can be seen on the obverse, particularly in the word Liberty and the date.
Because the doubling is not as dramatic as the 1955 version, it often goes unnoticed. However, knowledgeable collectors recognize its importance. Values vary widely based on visibility of the doubling and overall condition, with top examples reaching into the thousands.
1926 S Lincoln Cent
The Lincoln cent is a challenging date to find in high grade. While its overall mintage was moderate, well preserved examples are scarce.
Most surviving coins show significant wear. As a result, mint state specimens are highly sought after. Prices for top graded examples can climb into the tens of thousands of dollars, especially those with original red color.
What Makes a Wheat Penny Valuable
Several factors determine whether a Wheat penny is worth big money. Low mintage is a primary driver of value, but it is not the only factor. Condition plays a major role, particularly for early dates and mintmarked coins.
Mint errors and varieties often command strong premiums. Doubled dies, off metal strikes, and missing mintmarks create unique coins that collectors actively pursue. Historical context also matters, especially for coins connected to significant events like World War II.
Authentication is critical. Because some of these pennies are extremely valuable, counterfeits and altered coins exist. Professional grading and certification provide assurance of authenticity and accurate condition assessment.
Final Thoughts for 2026 Collectors
As we move through 2026, interest in rare Wheat pennies remains strong. The United States Mint may have stopped producing Wheat cents in 1958, but their legacy continues to grow in the collector market.
Whether you are building a complete set or searching pocket change for hidden treasures, understanding key dates and varieties can make a significant difference. A single rare Wheat penny could transform a simple one cent coin into a remarkable financial asset. For collectors willing to study details, verify authenticity, and focus on quality, these historic coins offer both excitement and long term potential.