1939 Lincoln Wheat Cent, American Numismatic Coin
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia Facility)
Pattern: Lincoln Wheat Cent Series (1909-1958), Victor David Brenner Obverse
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia Facility)
Material
Bronze (95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc); No actual silver content
Dimensions
Diameter: 19.05 mm; Weight: 3.11 grams
Description
A classic example of American numismatics, this 1939 Lincoln Wheat Cent represents everyday commerce during the twilight of the Great Depression. While housed in a collector holder, the coin shows significant wear and verdigris.
Key Features
Wheat ear reverse motifs; Lincoln bust obverse; lack of mint mark indicating Philadelphia origin
Material & Composition
Bronze (95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc); No actual silver content
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with brown patina; features Abraham Lincoln on obverse and wheat ears on reverse
Hallmarks & Stamps
No mint mark (Philadelphia); Date: 1939; Motto: In God We Trust; Liberty stamp
Construction Details
Die-struck from planchets in a high-speed coin press
Functional Features
Monetary currency; encapsulated in a generic plastic slab for preservation
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Circular coin edge (plain, non-reeded)
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial machine strike; low relief design intended for mass production and durability in commerce
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of 1939 date numerals; correct profile of Lincoln; appropriate diameter and standard US bronze composition appearance
Origin & Manufacturing
United States, Philadelphia, PA; Government Mintage
Era & Period
Pre-WWII United States; Depression-era currency design
Age Estimate
Mintage date 1939 (85 years old as of current date)
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes the transition of US currency toward honoring historical figures; established the longest-running design in US coinage history
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor; heavily circulated with significant environmental damage (verdigris/green oxidation), dark toning, and surface scratches; Slab is uncertified/generic
Value Estimate
Nominal value ($0.05 - $0.50) due to common date and poor surface condition; verdigris significantly lowers collector value
Care & Maintenance
Keep in a dry environment; avoid removing from plastic slab to prevent further oxidation; do not clean with chemicals as it destroys numismatic value
Similar Pieces
1939-D (Denver) or 1939-S (San Francisco) cents, distinguishable by 'D' or 'S' mint marks under the date
Interesting Facts
The 1939 cent saw a high mintage of over 316 million, making it a very common find for collectors of the era