Discover how ordinary wheat pennies have skyrocketed in value since 2013. Rare dates now sell for thousands! Check prices, key dates, and collector tips in this complete 2025 guide.
What Exactly Is a Wheat Penny?
If you’ve ever found an old penny with two wheat stalks on the back, you’ve held a wheat penny! Minted from 1909 to 1958, these Lincoln cents are beloved by collectors and everyday people hunting pocket change.
A Quick History of the Iconic “Wheat Cent”
Designed by Victor David Brenner to celebrate Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, the wheat penny was the first U.S. coin to feature a real person. Over 35 billion were made—yet some dates are incredibly rare today.
Why Wheat Pennies Have Become So Valuable Today
Supply is fixed, but demand keeps climbing. New collectors, YouTube coin channels, and social media roll hunting have driven prices up—especially for key dates and high-grade examples.
Wheat Penny Value Trends: 2013 vs 2025
| Year / Condition | 2013 Average Price | 2025 Average Price | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common date (XF) | $0.25 | $1.50 | +500% |
| 1931-S (VF) | $65 | $225 | +246% |
| 1922 No D (VF) | $750 | $2,200 | +193% |
| 1909-S VDB (MS65) | $2,800 | $8,500 | +204% |
The Most Valuable Wheat Pennies Right Now
The holy grails? 1909-S VDB, 1909-S, 1914-D, 1922 No D, and 1931-S. Even mid-grade examples routinely sell for four figures in 2025.
Top 10 Highest Wheat Penny Sales (2013–2025)
| Rank | Coin | Grade | Sale Year | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1943 Bronze (error) | MS63 | 2019 | $1,700,000 |
| 2 | 1944 Steel (error) | MS66 | 2021 | $408,000 |
| 3 | 1909-S VDB | MS68 | 2023 | $168,000 |
| 4 | 1914-D | MS67+ | 2024 | $152,000 |
| 5 | 1922 No D Strong Rev | MS65 | 2025 | $138,000 |
Expert Tips to Start (or Grow) Your Collection
- Search every roll—errors still turn up!
- Buy a Red Book or use PCGS CoinFacts for pricing.
- Focus on problem-free coins with original surfaces.
- Store in 2×2 cardboard flips or albums, never PVC.
How to Check Your Wheat Pennies for Rare Errors
Look for doubled dies (especially 1955), repunched mintmarks, the famous 1922 No D, and off-metal strikes. A 10× loupe is your best friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are wheat pennies still rising in value?
A: Yes—most key dates have doubled or tripled since 2020 alone.
Q: Where can I sell my wheat pennies?
A: Local coin shops, eBay, Heritage Auctions, or GreatCollections.
Q: Is it worth keeping every wheat penny I find?
A: Absolutely! Even common dates in high grade are climbing.
Final Thoughts: Your Jar of Pennies Could Be Worth a Lot!
Over the last 12 years, wheat pennies have proven they’re far more than spare change. From everyday circulated coins now worth dollars to ultra-rare pieces breaking six figures, the market is hotter than ever in 2025. Dig out that old jar, grab a magnifying glass, and start looking—you might just have a collector’s dream hiding in plain sight. Happy hunting, and feel free to share your best finds in the comments!