The 1919 Lincoln Wheat Penny, a relic from over a century ago, holds significant value for collectors, especially in uncirculated condition. While circulated versions are common and modestly priced, uncirculated specimens can command prices ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Understanding the 1919 Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, introduced in 1909 to commemorate Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birth anniversary, features Lincoln’s profile on the obverse and two wheat stalks on the reverse. In 1919, the U.S. Mint produced these pennies at three locations: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (‘D’ mint mark), and San Francisco (‘S’ mint mark).
Mintage Figures
| Mint Location | Mint Mark | Mintage Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | None | 392,021,000 |
| Denver | D | 57,154,000 |
| San Francisco | S | 139,760,000 |
Value of Uncirculated 1919 Wheat Pennies
The value of an uncirculated 1919 Wheat Penny depends on its mint mark, color designation, and condition. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with higher grades indicating better preservation. Additionally, color designations—Brown (BN), Red-Brown (RB), and Red (RD)—affect value, with Red being the most desirable due to its original luster.
| Mint Mark | Color | Grade (MS) | Estimated Value Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | RD | MS65 | $220 – $264 |
| None | RD | MS68 | $9,500 – $12,000 |
| D | RD | MS65 | $950 – $1,100 |
| D | RD | MS67 | $30,000 – $36,000 |
| S | RD | MS65 | $4,500 – $6,500 |
| S | RD | MS66 | $20,000 – $24,000 |
Note: Values are approximate and can fluctuate based on market demand and coin condition.
Notable Auction Sales
- A 1919 Philadelphia-minted penny graded MS68 RD sold for $18,000 in 2019.
- A 1919-D penny graded MS67 RD fetched $31,200 at auction in 2019.
- A 1919-S penny graded MS65 RD achieved a price of $31,050 in 2007.
Identifying Uncirculated 1919 Wheat Pennies
To determine if your 1919 Wheat Penny is uncirculated, examine the following:
- Luster: Uncirculated coins retain their original mint luster, appearing shiny and reflective.
- Wear: Absence of wear on high points, such as Lincoln’s cheek and jaw.
- Color: Red (RD) pennies indicate minimal oxidation, preserving the coin’s original copper hue.
Factors Influencing Value
- Condition (Grade): Higher-grade coins command higher prices.
- Color Designation: Red (RD) pennies are more valuable than Red-Brown (RB) or Brown (BN) due to their original appearance.
- Mint Mark: Coins from Denver (D) and San Francisco (S) mints can be more valuable, especially in higher grades.
- Rarity: Certain errors or unique features can increase a coin’s value.
Common 1919 Wheat Penny Errors
- Doubled Die: Doubling in inscriptions or design elements, potentially increasing value to $100 – $200.
- Off-Center Strike: Misaligned strikes can value between $10 and several hundred dollars, depending on the degree of the error.
- Repunched Mintmark: Multiple impressions of the mint mark can add value, typically ranging from $5 to $25.
Preserving and Selling Your 1919 Wheat Penny
If you possess a 1919 Wheat Penny, consider the following steps:
- Avoid Cleaning: Cleaning can reduce a coin’s value; leave it in its original state.
- Professional Grading: Submit the coin to a reputable grading service for an accurate assessment.
- Secure Storage: Store the coin in a protective holder to prevent damage.
- Market Research: Investigate recent sales of similar coins to gauge potential value.
While it’s improbable to find a 1919 Wheat Penny worth over $500,000, uncirculated specimens can still be highly valuable. Collectors prize these coins for their historical significance and rarity in pristine condition. Examining your collection or spare change might just uncover a hidden treasure.
FAQs
What makes a 1919 Wheat Penny valuable?
Factors include the coin’s condition (grade), color designation (RD, RB, BN), mint mark, rarity, and presence of errors.
How can I determine the grade of my 1919 Wheat Penny?
Professional grading services can provide an accurate assessment.
Are 1919 Wheat Pennies with no mint mark valuable?
Yes, especially in uncirculated condition with a high grade and Red (RD) designation.
