Wheat pennies – those tiny copper coins from 1909 to 1958 – have sparked dreams for collectors over the past 10 years. If you’ve ever found one in an old jar, you’re not alone in wondering: How much is it worth today? This guide breaks everything down in simple words, with fresh 2025 data, easy tables, and tips to spot hidden treasures.
What Are Wheat Pennies and Why Do People Chase Them?
Wheat pennies (also called wheat cents) show Abraham Lincoln on the front and two wheat stalks on the back. The U.S. Mint made them from 1909 until 1958. Collectors love them because:
- They’re the first U.S. coins with a real person (Lincoln).
- Some years had very few minted, making them rare.
- Even common ones sell for 5–10 times face value in good shape.
Over the past 10 years (2015–2025), prices have jumped thanks to online auctions, social media groups, and new collectors entering the hobby.
Value of Wheat Pennies in Past 10 Years: Quick Price Snapshot
Here’s a simple table showing average retail values for key dates in Very Fine (VF) condition – meaning light wear but clear details. Prices are based on eBay completed sales and PCGS data from 2015, 2020, and 2025.
| Year | Mint Mark | 2015 Price | 2020 Price | 2025 Price | 10-Year Gain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | S | $650 | $900 | $1,200 | +85% |
| 1914-D | D | $180 | $280 | $450 | +150% |
| 1922 No D | None | $550 | $850 | $1,100 | +100% |
| 1931-S | S | $70 | $110 | $160 | +129% |
| 1955 Double Die | None | $1,000 | $1,300 | $1,650 | +65% |
Note: Prices double or triple in Mint State (MS-65) condition – no wear, shiny like new.
Why Did Prices Rise So Much?
- Online Marketplaces – eBay and Etsy made rare coins easy to find and bid on.
- Social Media Hype – TikTok and Reddit coin groups brought in young buyers.
- Inflation & Safe Assets – People turned to coins when stocks felt risky.
- Key Date Discoveries – Fresh hoards (like the 1970s bank bags) hit the market, but demand stayed high.
How to Grade Your Wheat Pennies (Simple 3-Step Guide)
No fancy tools needed – just good light and a magnifying glass.
| Grade | What You See | Average Value (Common Date) |
|---|---|---|
| Good (G) | Date readable, Lincoln’s cheek flat | $0.15 – $0.50 |
| Very Fine (VF) | Light wear, wheat lines visible | $1 – $5 |
| Extremely Fine (EF) | Slight wear on high points | $5 – $15 |
| About Uncirculated (AU) | Tiny rub on cheek or wheat | $10 – $30 |
| Mint State (MS-60+) | No wear, full shine | $25 – $100+ |
Pro Tip: Look for mint marks under the date – “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco). No mark = Philadelphia.
Top 5 Dream Wheat Pennies to Hunt in 2025
1. 1909-S VDB – The Holy Grail
Only 484,000 made. Even worn ones sell for $600+. A dream find in grandpa’s attic.
2. 1955 Double Die Obverse
Lincoln’s face looks doubled. Red uncirculated examples now touch $2,000.
3. 1922 Plain (No D)
Mint mark wore off the die. VF coins jumped from $550 in 2015 to $1,100 in 2025.
4. 1914-D – Low Mintage Star
Just 1.2 million minted. Fake versions exist – always check the “D” shape.
5. 1931-S – Sleeper Rarity
Only 866,000 struck. Once ignored, now a $160 average in VF.
Where to Sell or Buy Wheat Pennies Today
| Platform | Best For | Fee/Tip |
|---|---|---|
| eBay | Wide audience | Use clear photos |
| Local Coin Shows | Face-to-face deals | Bring cash |
| Heritage Auctions | High-value coins | 15–20% seller fee |
| Facebook Groups | Quick flips | Watch for scams |
Safety First: Get rare coins graded by PCGS or NGC – plastic slabs protect value and prove authenticity.
Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
- Cleaning coins – Soap or polish ruins value. Leave patina alone.
- Overpaying for “errors” – Many are just damaged, not rare.
- Storing in PVC flips – Green corrosion forms over time. Use safer mylar or 2×2 cardboard.
Final Dream Checklist: Start Your Wheat Pennies Journey
- Sort any old cents by year.
- Check 1909–1935 dates first – highest value zone.
- Use the free PCGS CoinFacts app for instant price checks.
- Join a local coin club – free advice from pros.
- Dream big – one attic jar could hold a $1,000+ penny.