The 1918 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history. As part of the beloved Lincoln cent series introduced in 1909, this penny not only captures the spirit of post-World War I America but also holds varying levels of value for collectors today. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just curious about that old penny you found in a drawer, this guide will walk you through the history, features, value, and collecting tips for the 1918 wheat penny.
History of the 1918 Lincoln Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, designed by Victor David Brenner, was first minted in 1909 to honor the 100th birthday of Abraham Lincoln. It replaced the Indian Head cent and quickly became a staple in U.S. coinage. The reverse side features two wheat stalks encircling the words “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” giving the coin its nickname, the “Wheat Penny.”
The 1918 penny was struck during a time of economic transition. The U.S. had just concluded its involvement in World War I, and the Mint produced a large number of coins to accommodate the bustling post-war economy.
Mint Marks and Varieties
The 1918 Lincoln Wheat Penny was minted at three U.S. Mint facilities:
- Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark)
- Denver Mint (marked with a “D”)
- San Francisco Mint (marked with an “S”)
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate mintage numbers:
- 1918 (Philadelphia): 288,104,634 coins
- 1918-D (Denver): 47,830,000 coins
- 1918-S (San Francisco): 34,680,000 coins
Although none of these are considered extremely rare, condition and mint mark can significantly influence the coin’s value.
Key Features of the 1918 Wheat Penny
- Obverse Design: Bust of Abraham Lincoln facing right, the word “LIBERTY” on the left, and the year “1918” on the right. Above is the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Reverse Design: Two stylized wheat stalks on each side, surrounding the denomination “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” appears at the top.
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Diameter: 19.05 mm
- Edge: Plain
1918 Lincoln Wheat Penny Value Guide
If you’re wondering, how much is a 1918 wheat penny worth?—the answer depends on its mint mark, condition, and whether it has any errors or unique characteristics.
Circulated Values (As of 2025)
- 1918 (No Mint Mark):
- Good (G-4): $0.15
- Fine (F-12): $0.25
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $0.75
- About Uncirculated (AU-50): $2.00
- 1918-D:
- Good (G-4): $0.25
- Fine (F-12): $0.50
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $3.00
- About Uncirculated (AU-50): $10.00
- 1918-S:
- Good (G-4): $0.30
- Fine (F-12): $0.75
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $4.00
- About Uncirculated (AU-50): $12.00
Uncirculated Values
- 1918 (No Mint Mark): $10–$35
- 1918-D: $40–$75
- 1918-S: $50–$100+
Coins graded MS-65 or higher by PCGS or NGC can fetch hundreds of dollars, particularly with strong luster and minimal marks.
Rare 1918 Wheat Penny Errors
Some rare 1918 Lincoln Wheat Pennies feature minting errors that significantly increase their value:
1. 1918 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
This error features noticeable doubling in the date and lettering. A genuine 1918 DDO penny can sell for over $1,000 in higher grades.
2. Off-Center Strikes
An off-center strike where the design is misaligned can be worth $50 to $200, depending on the percentage of the off-center strike and overall condition.
3. Die Cracks and Cuds
These errors result from worn dies and can add modest premiums, especially when the damage is dramatic or clearly visible.
Tips for Collecting the 1918 Lincoln Wheat Penny
1. Buy Graded Coins for Investment
For long-term value, consider purchasing coins that are professionally graded and certified by PCGS or NGC. This ensures authenticity and gives you a reliable measure of condition.
2. Focus on Eye Appeal
Even circulated coins with excellent color and minimal blemishes can be more desirable than higher-grade coins with poor eye appeal.
3. Complete a Mint Mark Set
Collecting the 1918 penny from all three mints (Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco) is an accessible and satisfying goal for beginners.
4. Look for Error Coins
Check your 1918 pennies under a magnifying glass or loupe. You might be lucky enough to find a doubled die or off-center strike.
Where to Buy or Sell a 1918 Wheat Penny
You can find 1918 wheat pennies at:
- Local coin shops
- Coin shows
- eBay and other online marketplaces
- Professional auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers
- Online dealers like Apmex or SD Bullion (for graded coins)
When selling, remember that cleaning a coin can reduce its value. Always keep coins in their natural state and store them in a safe, dry environment.
Final Thoughts: Is the 1918 Wheat Penny Worth Collecting?
Absolutely. While the 1918 Lincoln Wheat Penny is not considered extremely rare, it remains an affordable and historically rich coin that appeals to collectors at all levels. From its place in post-WWI America to its range of interesting mint varieties and occasional error coins, it offers great value and enjoyment for coin enthusiasts.
Whether you’re looking to start a Lincoln cent collection or just curious about an old penny in your change jar, the 1918 wheat penny is a great coin to study, preserve, and potentially profit from.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes a 1918 wheat penny valuable?
A: High-grade condition, rare mint errors (like doubled die), and lower-mintage varieties (especially 1918-D and 1918-S in mint state) all increase value.
Q: Should I clean my 1918 penny?
A: No. Cleaning can damage the coin and significantly reduce its numismatic value.
Q: Can I find a 1918 wheat penny in circulation today?
A: It’s unlikely but not impossible. Most 1918 pennies have long been removed from circulation and reside in collections.