United States Wheat Cent (Lincoln Penny)
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (US Government)
Pattern: Lincoln Wheat Ear Reverse
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (US Government)
Material
Bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc); Note: This is not a silver item.
Dimensions
19.05 mm diameter; approx. 3.11 grams
Description
The Wheat Cent is the most iconic American small cent design, featuring Victor David Brenner’s portrait of Lincoln on the obverse and two wheat stalks on the reverse. This particular example shows significant circulation wear.
Key Features
Wheat stalk reverse design; bronze composition; historical Lincoln portrait
Material & Composition
Bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc); Note: This is not a silver item.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated finish with wheat ear stalks on reverse; Neoclassical style
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse: ONE CENT, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; Obverse (assumed): LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST
Construction Details
Die-struck at a federal mint facility
Functional Features
Monetary currency; serrated or plain edge depending on wear
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic item)
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial high-pressure strike; designed by Victor David Brenner
Authentication Indicators
Standard die-struck lettering, copper patina, consistent diameter and weight
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco mints)
Era & Period
Early to Mid-20th Century (1909-1958)
Age Estimate
Circa 1909-1958 based on wheat stalk reverse pattern
Cultural Significance
Represented American economic growth and the centennial of Abraham Lincoln's birth.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good (Heavily circulated, significant oxidation, surface grime, and wear on high points)
Value Estimate
$0.02 - $0.05 for common circulated dates; significantly higher for rare years/mints
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives or silver polish; store in a dry, PVC-free coin flip.
Similar Pieces
Memorial Reverse Penny (1959-2008), Indian Head Penny (Pre-1909), Steel Cent (1943)
Interesting Facts
The model for the reverse stalks was French-inspired; 1943 versions were made of steel due to wartime copper shortages.