The wheat penny was first minted in 1909, and it was the first coin in wide circulation to feature a U.S. president. Sculptor Victor D. Brenner was asked by the U.S. Mint to design a coin depicting Abraham Lincoln in celebration of his centennial birthday.
These valuable wheat pennies are rare, but some are still in circulation today. If you happen to get passed a wheat penny, make sure to check it closely — after all, you may have a unique collectible on your hands!
Value: Up to $1,500 Bottom line: The San Francisco-minted coin is one that's good for beginners, as its worth about $28 in average condition. In mint condition, they typically sell for more than other pennies from the same year.
Value: Up to $2,200 Bottom line: This coin was designed by Victor David Brenner, who placed his full name on the base of the reverse, bottom center.
Value: Up to $3,000 Bottom line: Actually, 1926 wheat pennies are fairly common in a "good" grade and not worth much, which makes them especially popular among beginner coin collectors.
Value: Up to $5,000 Bottom line: The 1922-D penny is one of the more common of the decade. However, the degree to which its mintmark disappears can drive up the price.
Value: Up to $5,500 Bottom line: Not as many of these coins were minted as those that came out of Philadelphia (1.2 million as opposed to 75 million), making this mint all the more valuable.
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