Discover the top 10 rare and valuable wheat pennies, including notable error coins like the 1909-S VDB and the 1944 Steel Cent. Learn how condition, rarity, and unique features influence their market value, making these coins prized collectibles for enthusiasts. Proper handling and storage help preserve their worth for years to come.

The wheat penny, also called the wheat cent, continues to be a popular item among coin enthusiasts. You might have encountered some in your pocket change. Well-preserved examples can be quite valuable. To enhance their worth, focus on coins that show minimal circulation, as pristine condition coins are typically more desirable and command higher prices.

Top 10 Highly Sought Wheat Pennies

1909-S VDB

The 1909-S VDB is a highly collectible wheat penny from the early 1900s, with around 484,000 produced.

Even in poor shape, it can be worth at least $700. ‘VDB’ references Victor Brenner, whose initials are found on the coin’s reverse side below the wheat stalks.

1909-S Over Horizontal S

This coin features a rare mint mark error where the ‘S’ was first stamped incorrectly, then corrected with a second ‘S,’ creating a notable RPM — Re- punched Mint Mark. Such errors happened before 1990 when mint marks were added manually.

1922-D No D

The 1922-D Lincoln wheat penny is distinctive because it lacks the usual ‘D’ mint mark, which was only inscribed by Denver Mint. Many coins in this series were produced without the mark, making this one highly collectible.

1909-S

A popular and affordable piece, the 1909-S wheat penny is valued at a minimum of $80. With a mintage of 1,825,000, it’s considered quite rare and favorite among collectors globally.

1917 Doubled Die Obverse

This 1917 coin displays visible doubling on the word “TRUST” and the date. Using a magnifier helps spot this error, which can significantly increase its value.

1931-S

Produced in tough conditions, only 866,000 coins were made at San Francisco Mint in 1931. These are key dates in the series, with early-grade specimens valued at around $80 or more.

1914-D

The 1914-D is the most valuable non-error wheat penny, with a low mintage of just 1,193,000 coins. Its rarity makes finding one in circulation difficult. Be cautious of counterfeit examples.

1944 S Over S

This coin showcases an ‘S’ mint mark that was first stamped, then partially erased and overpunched with a ‘D,’ due to an error. Close inspection with a magnifier reveals overlapping letters.

1944 Steel Cent

This rare mistake from 1944 involved producing coins from leftover steel blanks or foreign coin fragments. Only about 25 to 30 are believed to exist, making it the rarest wheat penny and highly valuable.

1943 Bronze Cent

During WWII, copper was reserved for the war effort, leading to steel cents. However, some 1943 copper planchets were accidentally struck, creating collectible and significant coins. Their rarity and history make them highly prized among collectors.

Wheat penny collecting depends heavily on rarity and condition. Proper maintenance and storage are crucial to preserve value. Collect with passion and care to maintain your coins’ worth.