Wheat Pennies are iconic coins that remain popular with collectors and investors today. Dating back to the early 20th century, it is one of the most recognizable coins in American history, holding considerable value both monetarily and historically.
Understanding the complex factors that affect its worth can be difficult for novice investors. This article breaks down the 1926 Wheat Penny value to help you make an informed decision before investing.
1926 Wheat Penny Details
- Mints: Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco
- Obverse designer: Victor D. Brenner
- Weight:11 grams
- Thickness: 55 millimeters
- Reverse designer: Victor D. Brenner
- Category: Wheat Pennies
- Total mintage:157,088,000
- Edge: Smooth
- Diameter:19 millimeter
- Composition:95% copper, 5% tin, and zinc
The 1926 Wheat Penny is an iconic coin that collectors have cherished over the years. It features two wheat ears on one of the sides and Abraham Lincoln’s portrait on the other, making it instantly recognizable. The obverse shows the well-known profile of Abraham Lincoln with the words “In God We Trust” along the upper border.
The coins were struck at mints across the country and can be identified by their mintmark – located on the obverse side just below Abraham Lincoln’s shoulder. The S indicates San Francisco, D is Denver, and Philadelphia has no mint mark.
On the reverse, the two wheat ears are arranged in a symmetrical pattern, with the words “ONE CENT” centered between them. Above the ears is “E Pluribus Unum,” Latin for “Out of many, one.”
This phrase reflects the country’s motto and its unity as a nation, and below them are the words “United States of America.” This classic design has been featured on many coins for over a century and is still admired today.
Copper makes up 95% of the 1926 Wheat Penny, while tin and zinc make up 5%. The item weighs 3.11 grams, measures 19mm in diameter, and measures 1.55mm thick.
It has slightly rounded edges with a few raised areas around the rim, known as reeding. The coin’s overall condition will determine its value; coins in good condition are worth more than those that are worn or damaged.
The iconic design and historical significance of the 1926 Wheat Penny have made it a sought-after collectible. It is an essential artifact from the past that reminds us of our nation’s rich history.
The 1926 Wheat Penny is still a popular coin among collectors and remains an enduring symbol of Americana. The market value of the 1926 Wheat Penny varies depending on various factors, such as its condition and rarity.
1926 Wheat Penny Value Chart |
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| Mint Mark | Good (G4) | Fine (F12) | Extremely Fine (EF40) | Uncirculated (MS65) | Uncirculated (MS66) |
| 1926 Wheat Penny-No mint | 0.25 USD | 0.50 USD | 3 USD | 10 USD | 20 USD |
| 1926 Wheat Penny- D | 1.50 USD | 3 USD | 16 USD | 125 USD | 170 USD |
| 1926 Wheat Penny-S | 10 USD | 20 USD | 45 USD | 180 USD | 500 USD |
Value and Varieties Guides for 1926 Wheat Penny
1926 No Mint Mark Wheat Penny Value
- Quantity Produce: 157,088,000
- Edge: Smooth
- Price Range: $0.25 to $50+ depending on condition and grade
- Year of Minting: 1926
- Designer: Victor D. Brenner
- Type: Wheat Penny
- Mint Mark: No mint (Philadelphia)
- Face Value: 0.01$
- Place of Minting: Philadelphia
Both numismatists and collectors highly seek the 1926 (P) Wheat Penny. It was the first year of issue for this denomination and had a short mintage period. As such, it carries a great deal of historical value as well as financial worth.
At any given time, the 1926 (P) Wheat Penny is worth between $1 and $20, depending upon its condition. However, coins that are in a higher grade can be worth significantly more.
Coins that are in near-perfect need, with no wear and tear on the design, can be worth upwards of a few hundred dollars. Uncirculated examples are scarce and valuable. Many collectors also look for coins with full steps, luster, and strike.
1926 (D) Wheat Penny Value
- Quantity Produce: 28,020,000
- Edge: Smooth
- Price Range: $1.50 – $170 (depending on condition)
- Year of Minting: 1926
- Designer: Victor D. Brenner
- Type: Wheat Penny
- Mint Mark: Denver (D)
- Face Value: 0.01$
- Place of Minting: Denver
Designing coins is a form of art, and the 1926 (D) Wheat Penny is an excellent example. The “D” mint mark indicates that this penny was made in Denver, Colorado, with a face value of 0.01 USD.
These coins have been around for almost a century, yet they remain highly collectible and can fetch a reasonable price at auction.
A 1926 (D) Wheat Penny in good condition will generally be worth around $1.50. A penny in very fine condition will likely sell for anywhere from $3 up to $16. If you can find one in excellent and uncirculated condition, it could be worth up to $100.
But if you have 1926 (D) Wheat Penny graded as an MS 60 or higher, its value jumps significantly. An MS 63 penny can fetch up to $170 depending on the market conditions at the time of sale.
The total 1926 (D) Wheat Pennies minted was 28,020,000, so it is not considered a rare coin. However, higher-graded coins are more difficult to find and worth more.
1926 (S) Wheat Penny Value
- Quantity Produce: 4,550,000
- Edge: Smooth
- Price Range: Depending on the condition, it can range from $10 to $500.
- Year of Minting: 1926
- Designer: Victor D. Brenner
- Type: Wheat Penny
- Mint Mark: “S” for San Francisco
- Face Value: 0.01$
- Place of Minting: San Francisco
1926 (S) Wheat Penny is a treasured collector’s item and can range in value from just $10 to $500. It is one of the rarest Wheat Pennies from this era and was minted exclusively in San Francisco, making it a highly desirable commodity among numismatists worldwide.
Good-quality coins are estimated to fetch anywhere from $10 to $12. Coins in very fine condition are worth substantially more, up to about $20 or even more, depending on the grade.
If you find one in extremely fine condition, it could be worth over $45. The MS 60 grade is the highest for uncirculated coins and is valued at around $180. The MS 63 grade is the highest certified and could be worth substantially more.
The total number of 1926 (S) Wheat Pennies minted was a low 4,550,000, so if you come across one of these coins, take great care of it. Due to its rarity and scarcity, this coin can be precious depending on the condition and grade it receives from an appraiser.
Also Read: Top 20 Most Valuable Old Pennies Worth Money (Penny Collection)
History of the 1926 Wheat Penny
The 1926 Wheat Penny was an exciting coin for many reasons. It was the first time that a Wheat Penny design had been used in the United States, and it marked a significant shift away from traditional coin designs of the past.
The new portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse held far more detail than any of its predecessors, becoming one of the most attractive coins produced in the 20th century. Meanwhile, the reverse featured two wheat stalks with their heads facing off in opposite directions, a design that would become an American icon.
The coin was designed by Victor D. Brenner, a Lithuanian-born sculptor, and artist who had immigrated to the United States in 1890. After his arrival, he quickly established himself as one of the premier coin designers in the country, creating unique designs for various coins.
In 1908, he was commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt to design a new penny, and after several attempts at different designs, Brenner eventually settled on the Wheat Penny. His design featured an effigy of Abraham Lincoln on one side, with two wheat stalks on the other. The initials “V.D.B.” were inscribed along the coin’s edge, signifying his contribution to its design.
Despite its popularity, however, Brenner’s design was subject to controversy. Some viewed it as an affront to traditional American values, while others saw it as disrespectful toward the nation’s founders.
In response to this criticism, Director of the Mint Dr. George E. Roberts suggested that Brenner change the initials to “B” instead of “V.D.B.” and move them to the reverse side of the coin.
Brenner agreed to these changes, although he was unhappy that the coins would take an additional two weeks to be produced. To speed up the process, Brenner removed the V.D.B. from the coins and replaced it with a more minor “B” on the backside.
The public reaction to this change was mixed, but President William H. Taft eventually approved the design in 1911. The coins were quickly produced and circulated throughout the United States.
However, it would not be until 1918 that the initials “V.D.B” finally reappeared on the coins – one year after Brenner’s death.
The 1926 Wheat Penny would become one of the most iconic coins in American history. It was a symbol of change and progress, ushering in a new era of coin design that would influence future generations of designers.
1926 Wheat Penny Grading
The 1926 wheat penny is graded based on various factors, including condition, eye appeal, and luster. The state may be the most critical factor that affects the grade of a 1926 wheat penny.
Uncirculated coins in superior condition will receive higher grades than those with visible wear or damage.
Eye appeal follows close behind, as some coins have more attractive features than others. Finally, luster also played a role in grading 1926 wheat pennies. Coins with higher levels of luster are given higher grades than those without.
Combining all these factors gives a grade to the 1926 wheat penny and ranges from 1 Poor (PR1) to 70 Perfect Uncirculated (MS70).
1926 Wheat Penny Errors
1. 1926 Wheat Penny BIE Error
The BIE error is a rare type of 1926 wheat penny caused by a mistake in the minting process. A small slash between B and E in Liberty characterizes the error. This slash looks like an I and is what gives this error its name.
The origin of the BIE error is unknown but believed to have been caused during the die-making process of the coin’s design. The cause may have been due to a loose punch position or a weak strike from the die.
The BIE error is considered rare and valuable, with some examples estimated to sell for thousands of dollars. Collectors will pay a premium for superior-quality coins with good eye appeal.
2. 1926 Wheat Penny Double Die Error
Double Die Error is one of the most commonly encountered errors in 1926 Wheat Pennies. This type of error occurs when a coin is struck twice with an incorrect die, resulting in a doubled image on one side of the coin. The doubling usually appears around lettering or details, making it easy to spot.
3. 1926 Wheat Penny Off-Centre Error
The off-center error is a classic mistake that can be found on some Wheat Pennies. When this coin is struck, the metal may not fall into place evenly, resulting in an off-center design.
This mistake will be evident when you look at the coin from different angles and see that one side of the obverse or reverse has thicker lines and details. Collectors value these coins highly, as they are one of a kind and have a fascinating history behind them.
4. 1926 Wheat Penny RPM Error
RPM Error coins, or Repunched Mintmark errors, are a type of variation found in the 1926 Wheat Penny. These errors occur when the minting process produces an overlapping effect on specific letters and digits, making them appear as if they were doubled-struck.
This error is most commonly seen on cents from Philadelphia and Denver Mints, although it is possible to find them on coins from other mints. The RPM Error is a fascinating coin variation that can add significant value to your 1926 Wheat Penny collection.
1926 Wheat Penny FAQs
How Much is a 1926 Wheat Penny Worth Today?
The value of a 1926 wheat penny can vary depending on its grade and condition. Uncirculated coins in superior condition can fetch high prices on the open market. On average, a 1926 wheat penny can be worth between $1 and $20.
Is a 1926 Penny Rare?
1926 (P) wheat penny is a relatively common coin. However, its value can range significantly depending on its grade and condition.
Certain varieties, such as the BIE or Double Die Error coins, can be rare and fetch high prices.
How Much is a 1926 Wheat Penny D Mint Mark Worth?
The value of a 1926 wheat penny with a D mint mark can range from $1 to over $100, depending on its condition and variety.
For example, a 1926-D Lincoln cent in uncirculated condition can fetch around $170, while one in a fair condition may only bring $1.5. The best way to determine the exact value of your wheat penny is to have it graded and appraised by a professional coin dealer.