Rare coins can hold incredible value, and collecting them might just be one of the easiest hobbies to turn into a side income. All you need is patience, a sharp eye for detail, and a little knowledge about what to look for.
One of the most fascinating types of coins for collectors is the Wheat Penny, minted in the U.S. between 1909 and 1958.
Featuring Abraham Lincoln on one side and two stalks of wheat on the other, these pennies are common in the coin world—unless you know which rare variations to hunt down. Let’s dive into a few Wheat Pennies that could fetch you up to $7,500!
1909-S VDB: A Rare Start
The 1909-S VDB is a standout coin for collectors. Designed by Victor David Brenner, these pennies were the first Lincoln cents to replace the Indian Head pennies. Brenner placed his initials “V.D.B.” on the reverse side, between the wheat stalks, but only 484,000 of these coins were produced before the initials were removed.
How can you spot one? Look for the small “S” below the date on the front and the “V.D.B.” initials on the back. Depending on its condition, this coin can sell for $500 to $1,600.
1909-S: The Less Flashy Sibling
Another gem from the same year is the 1909-S Wheat Penny, created after the “V.D.B.” initials were removed due to criticism. While not as rare, it’s still a valuable find. Only 1,825,000 were minted, making them a worthy addition to any collection.
Prices for these coins range from $70 to $370.
1909-S Over Horizontal S: A Mint Error Treasure
Errors often make coins more desirable, and this is a perfect example. The “S” mintmark on this coin was accidentally punched horizontally before being corrected. The faint traces of the original error make this coin highly collectible.
This unique penny typically sells for $80 to $400, depending on its condition.
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1914-D: A Survivor with a Story
With a mintage of just over 1 million, the 1914-D Wheat Penny isn’t the rarest, but its survival rate is exceptionally low. Many were taken out of circulation soon after release to commemorate Lincoln’s 100th birthday.
Today, this coin is worth between $150 and $3,000, depending on its condition.
1917 Double Die Reverse: A $7,500 Jackpot
The 1917 Double Die Reverse is one of the most valuable Wheat Pennies. This coin was created due to a manufacturing error when the design was accidentally imprinted twice, slightly off-center. Look for raised, doubled images in the word “trust” or on the date itself.
A well-preserved version of this coin can fetch anywhere from $160 to a whopping $7,500.
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Summary
Whether you’re an experienced collector or just starting, knowing which Wheat Pennies to look for can make your hobby a lucrative one.
From rare minting errors to limited production runs, these coins offer fascinating history and exciting profit opportunities. Start checking your spare change—you might just discover a treasure hiding in plain sight!
Editorial Note: This article was created through automated technology, with all details verified and polished by our editorial expert.