The 1947 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a popular coin among collectors and numismatists. Though it’s not a rare coin in general circulation, certain varieties and conditions can fetch a decent price on the collector’s market. This guide will explore the history, design, mintage numbers, and value of the 1947 Wheat Penny, as well as tips for collecting it.
History of the 1947 Lincoln Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny, also known as the Wheat Cent, was first minted in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person instead of Lady Liberty. The wheat ears on the reverse symbolized agricultural prosperity.
By 1947, the Lincoln Cent had been in circulation for nearly four decades. The 1947 Wheat Penny was minted just two years after the end of World War II, during a time when the U.S. Mint resumed regular coin production after the war effort had prioritized materials for military use.
Design Features
The obverse (front) of the 1947 Lincoln Wheat Penny features a right-facing portrait of President Abraham Lincoln with the inscriptions:
- “IN GOD WE TRUST” along the upper rim
- “LIBERTY” to the left of Lincoln
- The date “1947” on the right
- A mint mark below the date, if applicable (D or S)
The reverse (back) includes:
- Two stylized wheat stalks on either side
- The phrases “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” in the center
- The motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” at the top
This simple yet symbolic design remained in use until 1958.
Mint Locations and Mintage Figures
The 1947 Lincoln Wheat Penny was minted in three locations:
| Mint | Mint Mark | Mintage |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | None | 190,555,000 |
| Denver | D | 194,750,000 |
| San Francisco | S | 99,000,000 |
As shown, all three mints produced a substantial number of pennies, with Denver (D) issuing the highest.
Value of the 1947 Lincoln Wheat Penny
The 1947 Wheat Penny is common, and most circulated examples have only modest value. However, coins in higher grades or with errors can be worth significantly more.
Average Values (as of 2025)
| Grade | 1947 (No Mint Mark) | 1947-D | 1947-S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $0.05 | $0.05 | $0.05 |
| Fine (F-12) | $0.10 | $0.10 | $0.10 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $0.25 | $0.25 | $0.25 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $0.50 | $0.50 | $0.50 |
| Mint State (MS-60 to MS-65) | $1 – $5 | $1 – $6 | $2 – $7 |
Coins graded MS-66 and above, particularly with full red luster (denoted as RD), can sell for $20 to $150 or more depending on eye appeal and scarcity in that condition.
Rare and Valuable Varieties
While the 1947 Lincoln Penny is generally common, certain errors and die varieties can make a coin much more valuable. Keep an eye out for:
- Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): Doubling on the date or letters like “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Off-center strikes: A penny struck off-center by 10% or more can bring in $10–$100 depending on severity and condition.
- BIE Error: A small die break between the letters “B” and “E” in “LIBERTY” that looks like a capital “I.”
- Struck on wrong planchet: Sometimes coins are mistakenly struck on blanks meant for foreign coins or nickels.
These errors are typically discovered by collectors using a 10x magnifying glass or coin microscope.
Tips for Collectors
If you’re considering adding a 1947 Wheat Penny to your collection, here are some key tips:
- Look for high-grade coins. Coins with full original red luster and minimal contact marks command the highest premiums.
- Check for errors. Even minor errors can significantly increase a coin’s value.
- Buy certified coins. For valuable specimens (MS-65 and above), look for coins certified by PCGS or NGC to ensure authenticity and grade accuracy.
- Store properly. Use acid-free holders, 2×2 flips, or coin albums to protect your Wheat Pennies from damage.
- Complete the set. Many collectors enjoy building a full set of Lincoln Wheat Cents from 1909 to 1958, including all mint marks and key dates.
Is the 1947 Wheat Penny Made of Copper?
Yes. All 1947 Lincoln Wheat Pennies were made from 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, the same composition used before and after the 1943 steel cents. Each penny weighs 3.11 grams and has a diameter of 19.05 mm.
The U.S. Mint returned to the standard bronze alloy in 1944, using recycled shell casings from World War II. This continued until 1959, when the reverse design changed to the Lincoln Memorial.
Interesting Facts
- In 1947, the average cost of a new car was $1,500—about 150,000 pennies!
- The Lincoln Cent is the longest-running U.S. coin series with the same obverse portrait still in use today (as of 2025).
- Despite being common, the 1947 Lincoln Cent remains an important date for completing a full Wheat Penny album.
Where to Buy or Sell a 1947 Wheat Penny
You can buy or sell 1947 Lincoln Wheat Pennies at:
- Online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy
- Coin dealers and coin shops
- Coin shows and numismatic conventions
- Online auction houses like Heritage Auctions or GreatCollections
- Facebook groups and coin forums
Always compare prices and check for feedback or reviews before making a purchase. If you’re selling, you might consider having high-grade coins appraised or graded.
Conclusion
The 1947 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history. While it may not be rare, its enduring design, historical context, and occasional varieties make it a staple in coin collections. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned collector, the 1947 Wheat Penny is a coin worth exploring, especially if you stumble upon one in mint condition or with a rare error.