Some of the most exciting discoveries in the world of coin collecting don’t happen in auctions—they happen in dusty attics, old shoeboxes, and inherited jars filled with spare change. One such treasure that could be sitting unnoticed in a forgotten collection is the 1913 Lincoln Wheat Penny. While it may not always grab headlines like a 1909-S VDB or a 1943 copper cent, the 1913 penny—especially in higher grades or with rare mint marks—is quietly climbing in value and could be worth far more than face value. If you’ve ever inherited an old coin stash or collect pennies yourself, this is one coin you’ll want to double-check for.
Coin Name: 1913 Lincoln Wheat Penny
The 1913 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a classic one-cent coin from the early 20th century, known for its iconic design and historical significance. It features President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse (front) and two wheat stalks on the reverse, symbolizing prosperity. This coin was minted during a time when the U.S. economy was growing and coinage quality was improving. There are three versions of the 1913 penny based on mint location: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (marked “D”), and San Francisco (marked “S”). While the Philadelphia version is the most common, the 1913-D and especially the 1913-S are much scarcer, making them more valuable to collectors. Over a century old, this penny holds historical appeal and is often sought after in well-preserved condition, especially those with visible mint marks or known minting errors.
While it might not be the flashiest penny ever made, the 1913 Lincoln Wheat Penny has a special place in coin collecting due to its age, historical context, and growing collector interest. With mintages over 76 million across all varieties, it’s entirely possible that you—or a relative—could unknowingly have one sitting in a coin folder or old jar. If you’re lucky enough to spot a well-preserved 1913 penny, especially one with a mint mark or error, it could be worth far more than a single cent. Sometimes, it’s not just about the value—it’s about discovering a piece of history in your own home.
FAQ’s:
1. How much is a 1913 Lincoln Wheat Penny worth today?
A standard circulated 1913 penny from Philadelphia is worth about $1 to $10. However, a 1913-S in high grade can fetch $100 or more. Rare mint-state examples (especially red ones) can go for hundreds, depending on condition.
2. What’s the rarest variety of the 1913 penny?
The 1913-S is the rarest due to its lower mintage (only 6.1 million made). It’s especially desirable in uncirculated or near-mint condition.
3. Are there any known errors for the 1913 penny?
Yes! Known errors include off-center strikes, double dies, and die cracks. These errors can boost a penny’s value significantly, depending on the severity and visibility.
4. How can I tell if my 1913 penny is valuable?
Check for a mint mark (D or S), look at the coin’s overall condition, and examine it for any unusual features like doubling or striking errors. Grading it professionally through services like PCGS or NGC can also help determine value.
5. Where can I sell a valuable 1913 penny?
You can sell it through local coin dealers, online marketplaces like eBay, or through auction houses that specialize in numismatics. Make sure to get a proper appraisal first if you think it’s rare or high grade.
