All questions / Coins, bills and stamps

Are wheat pennies worth anything?

Wheat pennies were made from 1909 to 1958; a few dates and mint marks are scarce, most are common. Common dates in worn condition sell for a few cents each, often by the roll.

When people search for this

Try the penny decoder: type the year and mint mark of your penny.

What to look for

Check what applies to yours:

• The date and the small mint mark under it: 1909-S VDB, 1914-D and 1931-S are famous scarce ones.
• A 1955 penny with clearly doubled letters on the front (the 1955 doubled die).
• Condition: sharp details and original color are worth far more than worn brown coins.
• Do not clean them: cleaning removes value.

Before you sell

• Compare with items that actually sold, not only with asking prices.
• Take clear photos in daylight: front, back, marks and any damage.
• Do not clean coins, and do not repaint or polish old items: it often lowers the value.
• For anything that might be valuable, get an opinion from a certified appraiser or a specialist dealer.