The 1919 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a fascinating piece of American numismatic history. Minted more than a century ago, this coin not only reflects the post-World War I era but also remains a sought-after collectible for coin enthusiasts today. Whether you’re curious about its value, its historical significance, or whether your old penny might be worth a small fortune, this guide will give you all the details you need.
The Historical Context of the 1919 Wheat Penny
The Lincoln Wheat Penny was first introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. It was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person and marked a significant shift in American coinage design.
By 1919, the United States was emerging from World War I, and the economy was beginning to recover. The U.S. Mint produced a significant number of pennies that year to meet the demands of an expanding industrial and consumer economy.
Mint Locations and Mintage Numbers
In 1919, Lincoln Wheat Pennies were minted at three different locations:
- Philadelphia (no mint mark): 392,021,000 coins
- Denver (D mint mark): 57,154,000 coins
- San Francisco (S mint mark): 139,760,000 coins
With nearly 589 million pennies minted in total, the 1919 issue had one of the highest production runs of the early Wheat Penny series.
Obverse and Reverse Design
- Obverse (Front): The obverse of the 1919 Lincoln Wheat Penny features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor David Brenner. Above Lincoln’s head is the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST,” with “LIBERTY” on the left and the date “1919” on the right.
- Reverse (Back): The reverse showcases two stalks of wheat bordering the inscriptions “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” Above this is the Latin motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
This reverse design is the reason these coins are commonly referred to as “Wheat Pennies.”
1919 Lincoln Wheat Penny Value
The value of a 1919 Lincoln Wheat Penny varies significantly based on its condition and mint mark. Here’s a breakdown of average values:
1. 1919 (No Mint Mark – Philadelphia)
- Good (G-4): $0.15 – $0.30
- Fine (F-12): $0.35 – $0.75
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $1.50 – $2.00
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-65): $5.00 – $50+
2. 1919-D (Denver)
- Good (G-4): $0.50 – $0.75
- Fine (F-12): $1.00 – $2.00
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $6.00 – $10.00
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-65): $30 – $150+
3. 1919-S (San Francisco)
- Good (G-4): $0.50 – $1.00
- Fine (F-12): $2.00 – $3.50
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): $8.00 – $15.00
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-65): $40 – $200+
💡 Pro Tip: Coins with a bright, original red color (graded as “Red” or “RD” by grading services like PCGS or NGC) are worth considerably more than brown or red-brown coins.
Factors That Affect Value
Several factors influence the market value of a 1919 Lincoln Wheat Penny:
1. Mint Mark
The 1919-S and 1919-D coins generally command higher prices than the Philadelphia version, especially in high grades.
2. Condition (Grade)
Grading plays a major role in value. Professional grading services like PCGS and NGC provide trusted third-party assessments of coin quality.
3. Color and Luster
Wheat Pennies are graded on color:
- RD (Red) – Bright and untarnished
- RB (Red-Brown) – Some red, some brown
- BN (Brown) – Fully toned and brown
Red coins in Mint State condition are the most valuable.
4. Rarity and Demand
While 1919 Wheat Pennies are not considered rare, high-grade specimens and those with errors are in demand among collectors.
Notable 1919 Penny Errors and Varieties
Error coins can significantly increase a penny’s value. Here are some known 1919 Lincoln Wheat Penny errors to watch for:
- Double Die Obverse (DDO): Slight doubling of the date or lettering
- Off-Center Strike: Part of the design missing due to a misalignment
- Die Cracks and Cuds: Raised lines or blobs from damaged dies
If you suspect your coin has an error, have it authenticated by a reputable third-party grader.
Tips for Collecting 1919 Lincoln Wheat Pennies
1. Start with Circulated Coins
You can often find 1919 Wheat Pennies in circulated rolls or bulk lots on eBay and other marketplaces. These make for affordable starter pieces.
2. Buy Certified Coins for Investment
If you’re collecting for investment, consider buying graded coins from PCGS or NGC. Look for MS-63 or higher with Red coloration for maximum value.
3. Handle with Care
Always hold coins by the edges and store them in acid-free holders to prevent damage or tarnish.
4. Join a Coin Club or Forum
Engaging with fellow collectors on forums like Coin Community or Collectors Universe can help you learn more and spot good deals.
Where to Buy or Sell a 1919 Lincoln Wheat Penny
- eBay: Great for a wide variety of circulated coins and error varieties
- Heritage Auctions: Offers rare, high-grade coins for serious collectors
- Local Coin Shops: Provide hands-on inspection and negotiation opportunities
- Coin Shows and Conventions: Ideal for meeting dealers and viewing coins in person
Always research prices and seller reputations before making a purchase.
Conclusion: Is the 1919 Lincoln Wheat Penny Worth Collecting?
Absolutely! The 1919 Lincoln Wheat Penny is an excellent addition to any numismatic collection. While it’s not a particularly rare coin, its historical value, iconic design, and the possibility of finding valuable mint-state or error versions make it a collector favorite.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned investor, the 1919 Wheat Penny offers history, character, and value — all in a single cent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the 1919 Lincoln Wheat Penny rare?
A: While not rare in general, high-grade and error varieties can be quite valuable.
Q: What does a 1919 Wheat Penny weigh?
A: It weighs 3.11 grams, composed of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc.
Q: Can I find a 1919 Wheat Penny in circulation today?
A: It’s extremely unlikely due to its age, but they occasionally show up in old coin collections or estate sales.
If you enjoyed learning about the 1919 Lincoln Wheat Penny, be sure to explore other key dates in the Wheat Cent series, including the rare 1909-S VDB and 1922 No D pennies.
For more coin values, tips, and historical insights, bookmark this page and check back often!