What if a simple old penny in your drawer could be worth over $150,000? 
It may sound unbelievable, but certain Lincoln Wheat Penny coins have achieved record-breaking prices at major auctions.
These historic pennies, minted between 1909 and 1958, are highly sought after by collectors. While billions were produced, only a small number have the rare features, pristine condition, or mint errors that make them incredibly valuable.
Let’s explore four of the most valuable Lincoln Wheat pennies step by step so you know exactly what to look for. 
Step 1: Understanding Lincoln Wheat Pennies
Before identifying valuable coins, it’s important to understand the basics.
Key Features:
- Front (Obverse): Portrait of President Abraham Lincoln
- Back (Reverse): Two wheat stalks surrounding the denomination
- Minting period: 1909–1958
- Value depends on:
- Mint mark
- Condition (grade)
- Rarity
- Mint errors
While most are worth only a few cents, rare examples can sell for thousands or even six figures.
Step 2: The Legendary 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny — Worth Up to $152,750
The 1909-S VDB Lincoln Wheat Penny is considered the most famous and valuable Wheat penny.
Why This Coin Is So Valuable:
- Extremely low mintage: only 484,000 coins
- Highly desirable among collectors
- Auction record: $152,750
How to Identify It:
Look for these key features:
- Small “S” mint mark below the date
- Initials “V.D.B.” on the bottom reverse
- Bright red original color increases value significantly
Estimated Value:
- Circulated condition: $600 – $5,000
- Mint condition: $25,000 – $150,000+
Step 3: The 1915-S Wheat Penny — Rare in High Grade
The 1915-S Lincoln Wheat Penny had over 4.8 million coins minted, but high-quality examples are extremely scarce.
Why Collectors Love It:
- Auction record: $48,300
- Most examples show heavy wear
- Sharp, well-preserved coins are rare
What to Look For:
- Strong details on Lincoln’s face
- Clear wheat stalk lines
- Original red surface color
Estimated Value:
- Circulated: $5 – $100
- Mint condition: $1,000 – $50,000
Step 4: The Rare 1909-S RPM Error Penny — Worth Up to $32,900
The 1909-S RPM Lincoln Wheat Penny features a fascinating minting error called a Repunched Mint Mark.
What Makes It Special:
- A sideways “S” appears beneath the main mint mark
- Very rare error variety
- Auction record: $32,900
How to Identify This Error:
- Use a magnifying glass (10× recommended)
- Look closely for a second “S” under the mint mark
- Only found on specific 1909-S coins
Estimated Value:
- Circulated: $500 – $5,000
- Mint condition: $10,000 – $50,000
Step 5: The 1925-S Wheat Penny — A Rare High-Quality Survivor
The 1925-S Lincoln Wheat Penny is another valuable coin, especially in well-preserved condition.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Auction record: $54,625
- Many coins were weakly struck
- Fully detailed examples are rare
Identification Tips:
- Strong, readable lettering
- Clear wheat stalk separation
- Bright original mint luster
Estimated Value:
- Circulated: $1 – $50
- Mint condition: $5,000 – $50,000+
Step 6: Value Comparison Guide
| Coin | Circulated Value | Mint State Value | Top Auction Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1909-S VDB | $600 – $5,000 | $25,000 – $150,000+ | $152,750 |
| 1915-S | $5 – $100 | $1,000 – $50,000 | $48,300 |
| 1909-S RPM | $500 – $5,000 | $10,000 – $50,000 | $32,900 |
| 1925-S | $1 – $50 | $5,000 – $50,000+ | $54,625 |
High-grade certified coins continue increasing in value every year.
Step 7: What You Should Do If You Find One
If you discover a potential rare Wheat penny, follow these steps carefully:
Proper Handling:
- Hold the coin by its edges only
- Never clean or polish the coin
Documentation:
- Take clear photos of both sides
- Use natural lighting
Professional Authentication:
Submit your coin to grading companies like:
- Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS)
- Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC)
Selling Options:
Consider major auction houses such as:
- Heritage Auctions
- Stack’s Bowers Galleries
Cleaning a coin can reduce its value by up to 90%.
Why Lincoln Wheat Pennies Continue to Surprise Collectors
Lincoln Wheat pennies remain one of the most popular coin series ever produced.
Key Reasons:
- Extremely collectible worldwide
- Rare varieties still being discovered
- Historic significance and strong demand
- Potential for life-changing value
Even today, valuable Wheat pennies are still found in old collections, jars, and coin albums.
Hidden Treasure Checklist: Don’t Ignore Your Old Pennies
Before you spend or ignore old coins, take a closer look. You might unknowingly own a coin worth thousands — or even over $150,000.
Check for:
Rare dates
Mint marks
Errors
Excellent condition
A simple penny could be your next big discovery.
