When most people think of rare pennies, they often jump straight to the 1909-S VDB or the 1914-D. But hiding quietly in the shadows is a lesser-known coin that’s beginning to grab the attention of collectors and investors alike — the 1910-S Lincoln Wheat Cent. Struck over a century ago at the San Francisco Mint, this penny is far scarcer than many realize, and its value has been steadily climbing in recent years. With demand growing for early Lincoln cents in high grade, the 1910-S might just be one of the smartest sleeper coins to watch.
Coin Name: 1910-S Lincoln Wheat Penny
The 1910-S Lincoln Wheat Penny was minted in San Francisco during the second year of the Lincoln cent series. With a mintage of only 6,045,000, it’s significantly rarer than many of its early 20th-century counterparts. And while that number might sound large by today’s standards, most of these pennies saw heavy circulation — meaning finding one in excellent condition today is no easy task. Unlike its famous 1909-S VDB predecessor, the 1910-S flew under the radar for decades. But collectors looking to complete high-quality Lincoln sets are beginning to pay more attention to this underappreciated rarity, especially in Mint State and high-grade circulated conditions.
Why It’s Gaining in Value:
- Low Mintage: Only a little over 6 million were produced — far fewer than most other Lincoln cents from the era.
- West Coast Circulation: Most were heavily used and worn in commerce, making high-grade examples much scarcer.
- Early Lincoln Series: As the second San Francisco issue in the Lincoln cent lineup, it’s increasingly desirable for date-and-mint collectors.
- Underrated Rarity: Unlike more famous dates, the 1910-S has remained a quiet pick — until now.
- Rising Demand: Collector interest in full Lincoln Wheat sets is growing, pushing prices higher for key semi-key dates like this one.
What to Look For:
- Condition Matters: A worn 1910-S might bring $5–$25, but in XF or AU condition, values jump significantly.
- Mint State (MS) Prices: In MS63 Brown, prices range around $175–$250. In Red or Red-Brown, the value can exceed $500.
- Original Surfaces: Coins with natural toning and minimal cleaning command a premium.
- Authentication: Always verify authenticity, especially when buying online or from unknown sellers.
The 1910-S Lincoln Wheat Penny is a coin that’s quietly climbed in both collector respect and market value. It may lack the fame of other early Lincoln cents, but that’s exactly what makes it an exciting sleeper. As more collectors seek to complete high-grade sets, demand for this coin — especially in better conditions — will likely continue to grow. Whether you’re a serious numismatist or a casual collector hoping for a smart addition to your collection, the 1910-S is worth a second look. Check those coin albums and dealer bins — a hidden gem could be waiting.
FAQ’s:
1. Why is the 1910-S penny considered rare?
While not the rarest Lincoln cent, its low mintage and heavy circulation make high-quality examples difficult to find.
2. How much is a 1910-S penny worth today?
In circulated condition, values range from $5–$50. In Mint State, prices can go from $150 to over $500, depending on color and grade.
3. How can I tell if my 1910 penny is the San Francisco version?
Look for the small “S” mint mark under the date on the obverse (front) of the coin.
4. Are there any known errors on the 1910-S penny?
While no major errors are widely documented, minor die cracks or repunched mintmarks can exist and may carry added value.
