The 1915 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a sought-after coin among numismatists and coin collectors due to its historical significance and enduring popularity. Minted during a time of global unrest and technological change, this cent reflects both American resilience and a continued commitment to craftsmanship. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your numismatic journey, understanding the details of the 1915 Lincoln cent can offer valuable insights into the world of early 20th-century U.S. coinage.
Brief History of the Lincoln Wheat Penny
Introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln, the Lincoln Wheat Penny replaced the Indian Head cent. Designed by sculptor Victor David Brenner, it became the first U.S. coin to feature a real person and was an immediate hit with the public.
The reverse of the coin features two wheat ears encircling the words “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” a design that remained in use until 1958. The phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM” arches above the coin’s denomination. This classic wheat design is what gives the coin its nickname: the “Wheat Penny.”
1915 Lincoln Wheat Penny Mint Marks and Production
The 1915 Lincoln Wheat Penny was struck at three U.S. Mint facilities:
- Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark)
- Denver Mint (D)
- San Francisco Mint (S)
Here’s a breakdown of the mintage figures:
| Mint | Mint Mark | Mintage |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | None | 29,092,120 |
| Denver | D | 22,050,000 |
| San Francisco | S | 4,833,000 |
As you can see, the 1915-S Lincoln Wheat Penny had the lowest mintage of the three, making it more desirable to collectors.
Design Details
- Obverse Designer: Victor David Brenner
- Reverse Designer: Victor David Brenner
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Diameter: 19.05 mm
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Edge: Plain
The obverse (front) of the coin showcases a right-facing portrait of Abraham Lincoln, along with the inscriptions “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and the date 1915. Coins from the Denver and San Francisco Mints bear their respective D and S mint marks below the date.
1915 Lincoln Wheat Penny Value
The value of a 1915 Lincoln Wheat Penny depends on factors like condition, mint mark, and rarity. Here’s a general pricing guide based on market data from coin dealers and auction results:
1915 (No Mint Mark – Philadelphia)
- Good (G-4): $0.50
- Fine (F-12): $1.25
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $3.00
- Uncirculated (MS-60): $15.00–$30.00
- High Grade Red (MS-65 RD): $200–$350+
1915-D (Denver)
- Good (G-4): $1.50
- Fine (F-12): $3.00
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $10.00
- Uncirculated (MS-60): $40.00–$75.00
- High Grade Red (MS-65 RD): $400–$700+
1915-S (San Francisco)
- Good (G-4): $5.00
- Fine (F-12): $10.00
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $25.00
- Uncirculated (MS-60): $75.00–$125.00
- High Grade Red (MS-65 RD): $1,000–$1,500+
Red Lincoln cents (designated RD) are the most valuable, as they retain their original mint luster. Brown (BN) and Red-Brown (RB) varieties are less valuable but still collectible.
Key Factors That Affect Value
- Mint Mark: Coins from the San Francisco mint (1915-S) are the rarest and often fetch higher prices.
- Condition: Coins in mint state (MS-60 and above) can be worth significantly more.
- Color: Red coins are worth more than Red-Brown or Brown coins due to their preserved copper luster.
- Rarity: Low-mintage and error coins are highly sought after.
- Authentication: Coins that are graded and certified by PCGS or NGC tend to command a premium.
Notable Errors and Varieties
While no major varieties are officially recognized for the 1915 Lincoln cent, some die cracks, off-center strikes, and doubled dies have appeared on the market. These can increase a coin’s value significantly, especially if they’re dramatic or well-preserved.
If you suspect you have a 1915 Lincoln Wheat Penny with an error, it’s worth getting it evaluated by a professional grading service like PCGS, NGC, or ANACS.
Tips for Collectors
- Storage: Store your coins in a cool, dry environment using acid-free holders or albums to avoid corrosion.
- Authentication: Only purchase high-value coins from reputable dealers or auctions. Always request certification if paying a premium.
- Know the Market: Use platforms like eBay, Heritage Auctions, and GreatCollections to gauge current market value.
Where to Buy or Sell 1915 Wheat Pennies
You can find 1915 Lincoln Wheat Pennies for sale at:
- Local coin shops
- Online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy
- Numismatic auctions
- Coin shows
- Specialized coin dealers
If you’re selling, ensure you have a good understanding of your coin’s condition and value before listing or negotiating.
Is the 1915 Lincoln Penny a Good Investment?
While it may not appreciate like rare gold coins or ultra-low-mintage key dates, the 1915 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a stable and rewarding addition to most U.S. coin collections. High-grade and red specimens, especially from the Denver and San Francisco mints, have demonstrated steady value growth over the years.
Collectors interested in completing a full Lincoln Wheat cent series (1909–1958) will find the 1915 issue essential. Its relatively low mintage—especially the 1915-S—and historical context make it a coin with both intrinsic and nostalgic value.
Conclusion
The 1915 Lincoln Wheat Penny is more than just a piece of copper—it’s a tangible connection to American history. With careful preservation and a keen eye for detail, this classic cent can be a rewarding coin to collect or invest in. Whether you’re drawn to it for its history, design, or market value, the 1915 Lincoln cent remains an iconic and enduring favorite in the numismatic world.