The 1917 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a classic American coin with historical significance, sought after by collectors due to its age, design, and potential value. Struck during a pivotal time in U.S. history, this coin is part of the beloved Lincoln Wheat Cent series, which ran from 1909 to 1958. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a beginner interested in coin collecting, the 1917 Wheat Penny deserves a closer look.
In this article, we’ll cover the history, specifications, mint varieties, value ranges, grading, and tips for collectors of the 1917 Lincoln Wheat Penny.
History of the 1917 Lincoln Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person and was designed by Victor David Brenner, whose initials “VDB” initially appeared prominently on the reverse but were later removed and then restored in smaller form in 1918.
The 1917 issue came during World War I, when the U.S. was transitioning into a war economy. Despite the global turmoil, the U.S. Mint continued to produce pennies in large numbers. The 1917 Wheat Penny is now over a century old, making it a fascinating piece of American history.
Design and Specifications
- Obverse: Features the profile of Abraham Lincoln, facing right, with the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” above, “LIBERTY” to the left, and the date 1917 to the right.
- Reverse: Displays two wheat ears encircling the words “ONE CENT”, “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”, and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above.
Specifications:
- Designer: Victor D. Brenner
- Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Diameter: 19.05 mm
- Edge: Plain
Mint Marks and Varieties
The 1917 Lincoln Wheat Penny was struck at three mints:
- Philadelphia Mint (No mint mark):
- Mintage: 196,429,785
- Denver Mint (D mint mark):
- Mintage: 55,120,000
- San Francisco Mint (S mint mark):
- Mintage: 32,620,000
Key Varieties to Look For:
- 1917 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO):
One of the most notable varieties, this error coin shows noticeable doubling in the date and the words “IN GOD WE TRUST.” These are significantly more valuable than regular 1917 pennies.
1917 Lincoln Wheat Penny Value
The value of a 1917 Lincoln Wheat Penny depends on several factors, including mint mark, condition (grade), and rarity of the specific variety. Below is a general price guide:
1917 (No Mint Mark) Value:
- Good (G-4): $0.20 – $0.50
- Fine (F-12): $0.75 – $1.00
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $2 – $4
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-63): $15 – $60+
- Red MS-65+: $150 – $300+
1917-D (Denver) Value:
- Good (G-4): $0.75 – $1.50
- Fine (F-12): $2.50 – $5.00
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $12 – $25
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-63): $50 – $150+
- Red MS-65+: $500 – $1,000+
1917-S (San Francisco) Value:
- Good (G-4): $0.75 – $2.00
- Fine (F-12): $3.00 – $6.00
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $15 – $35
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-63): $60 – $200+
- Red MS-65+: $800 – $1,500+
1917 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) Value:
- Fine (F-12): $100 – $200
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $300 – $600
- Uncirculated (MS-63): $1,000 – $3,000+
Note: Prices fluctuate based on market demand, so check recent auction results for the most accurate value.
Grading the 1917 Wheat Penny
Coin grading significantly affects the value of your penny. Here are the basics:
- Good (G-4): Heavily worn, but the date and major details are still readable.
- Fine (F-12): Moderate wear with more details visible, especially in Lincoln’s hair and coat.
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): Light wear on high points; features remain sharp.
- Mint State (MS-60 and up): No wear; may have bag marks or minor flaws.
- Red, Red-Brown, Brown: Indicates the amount of original mint color left. Full red coins are the most valuable.
For high-value coins, especially uncirculated or varieties like the DDO, professional grading by PCGS or NGC is recommended.
How to Identify the 1917 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1917 DDO is a popular and highly valuable error coin. Here’s how to spot one:
- Look closely at the date and the letters in “IN GOD WE TRUST”.
- Doubling will appear like a shadow or second image of the numbers and letters.
- Use a magnifying glass or coin loupe for accurate detection.
If you suspect you have one, consider sending it for authentication. Even in low grades, these coins command hundreds of dollars.
Tips for Collectors
- Check Your Pocket Change: While rare, it’s possible to find a 1917 Wheat Penny in circulation.
- Buy From Reputable Dealers: Avoid counterfeits by purchasing from certified numismatic dealers.
- Look for Red Specimens: Fully red 1917 pennies, especially from Denver or San Francisco, fetch higher prices.
- Invest in Graded Coins: Professionally graded coins maintain their value and appeal to serious collectors.
- Store Coins Properly: Use acid-free holders or coin capsules to prevent oxidation and discoloration.
Final Thoughts
The 1917 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a historic and collectible coin that bridges America’s past and present. With three different mint marks, the potential for valuable varieties like the doubled die obverse, and its status as a World War I-era artifact, it’s a must-have for any U.S. coin collection.
Whether you’re holding onto a worn copper coin from your grandfather’s stash or hunting for a brilliant uncirculated red penny, the 1917 Wheat Penny offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century America—and the thrill of numismatic treasure hunting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the 1917 Wheat Penny rare?
A: It’s not rare in circulated condition, but high-grade red uncirculated coins and doubled die varieties are quite rare and valuable.
Q: How much is a 1917 wheat penny worth today?
A: Values range from a few cents to over $1,000 depending on mint mark, condition, and whether it’s a rare variety like the DDO.
Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1917 penny?
A: Below the date on the obverse. If there’s no mint mark, it was minted in Philadelphia.
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