The 1911 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a treasured coin among collectors, prized for its historical significance, classic design, and rarity in higher grades. Whether you’re new to coin collecting or an experienced numismatist, understanding the nuances of the 1911 Wheat Penny can enhance your appreciation and help you assess its value more accurately.
In this guide, we’ll explore the history, varieties, value chart, grading tips, and collecting strategies for the 1911 Lincoln penny.
History of the 1911 Lincoln Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, also known as the Wheat Cent, was introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person’s portrait. The obverse displays Lincoln’s bust, while the reverse features two wheat stalks symbolizing prosperity.
By 1911, the coin had become a staple of American currency. That year, the U.S. Mint struck the Lincoln penny at three locations:
- Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Denver (D mint mark)
- San Francisco (S mint mark)
While not the rarest of Lincoln cents, the 1911 wheat penny is still sought-after, especially in uncirculated condition or with full original luster.
Mintages and Varieties
Here’s a breakdown of the 1911 Lincoln cent mintages by location:
| Mint | Mint Mark | Mintage | Rarity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | None | 101,177,787 | Common |
| Denver | D | 12,672,000 | Less Common |
| San Francisco | S | 4,026,000 | Scarce |
The 1911-S Lincoln cent is the rarest and most valuable of the three. Coins from the San Francisco Mint often show weaker strikes and are harder to find in higher grades.
How Much is a 1911 Lincoln Wheat Penny Worth?
The value of a 1911 penny depends on three main factors: mint mark, condition, and rarity. Here’s a rough value chart (as of 2025):
1911 No Mint Mark (Philadelphia)
- Good (G-4): $0.25
- Fine (F-12): $0.50
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $2
- About Uncirculated (AU-50): $5
- Mint State (MS-60 to MS-65): $10–$50+
1911-D Lincoln Penny
- Good (G-4): $1.50
- Fine (F-12): $3
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $10
- AU-50: $25
- Mint State (MS-60 to MS-65): $50–$200+
1911-S Lincoln Penny
- Good (G-4): $30
- Fine (F-12): $45
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $100
- AU-50: $150+
- Mint State (MS-60 to MS-65): $300–$1,000+
Pro tip: Prices can vary based on toning, strike quality, and eye appeal. Coins certified by grading companies like PCGS or NGC often command higher prices.
Key Features to Look For
When examining a 1911 Lincoln penny, here are the characteristics to pay attention to:
1. Strike Quality
Coins from the San Francisco Mint (1911-S) are notorious for weak strikes. Check Lincoln’s hair and the wheat stalks for detail.
2. Mint Mark Placement
Genuine D and S mint marks are located just below the date. Be cautious of altered or counterfeit mint marks.
3. Condition and Wear
Higher-grade coins with minimal wear are more valuable. Pay close attention to:
- Lincoln’s cheek and jawline
- The wheat stalk lines on the reverse
- The rim and lettering sharpness
4. Luster
Uncirculated pennies should have a natural copper-red or reddish-brown luster. Dull or dark coins may have been cleaned, which reduces value.
Collecting and Investment Potential
The 1911 Lincoln Wheat Penny is an attractive coin for both new and seasoned collectors. Its affordability in lower grades and value in high grades makes it ideal for building a complete Lincoln cent collection.
Why Invest in 1911 Pennies?
- Historical relevance: Early Lincoln cents reflect a pivotal era in U.S. coinage and politics.
- Increasing demand: As more people enter the hobby, demand for early-date wheat pennies continues to grow.
- Rising copper prices: With a composition of 95% copper, early Lincoln cents hold intrinsic metal value.
Tips for Buying and Selling
Where to Buy:
- Online marketplaces (eBay, Etsy, MA-Shops)
- Reputable coin dealers and numismatic shows
- Coin grading services (PCGS, NGC) for certified examples
What to Avoid:
- Polished coins: These have an unnatural shine and reduced value.
- Fake mint marks: Some coins are altered to increase value—always buy from trusted sources.
- Raw coins without grading: Be cautious unless you’re confident in your grading skills.
Fun Fact: Bronze Composition
The 1911 Lincoln penny was made from 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, giving it a distinctive brown-red tone. This bronze composition was used until 1943, when pennies were briefly struck in steel due to wartime shortages.
Final Thoughts
The 1911 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a fascinating piece of U.S. history. Whether you’re interested in its numismatic value, historical significance, or investment potential, it’s a must-have for any penny collector. With just a bit of research and careful buying, you can add a valuable piece of Americana to your coin collection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What makes the 1911-S penny more valuable than the others?
A: Its low mintage (only 4 million) and relative scarcity in high grades make the 1911-S highly sought after.
Q: Are there any rare errors on the 1911 Lincoln penny?
A: While no major errors are widely known, collectors sometimes find minor die cracks or off-center strikes that can increase value.
Q: Should I clean my 1911 wheat penny?
A: No. Cleaning can damage the surface and significantly reduce a coin’s value. Always leave coins in their natural state.
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