If you are fond of collecting old coins, then you have probably heard about the 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny. This coin is considered to be one of the most special and valuable coins of the Lincoln series. Due to the rarity of this penny, limited number of minting and difficulty in getting it in excellent condition, its demand is still very high today.
Let’s talk about this coin in detail and know why it is so special, what can be its price, and how beneficial it can prove to be for you if you have such a coin.
What makes the 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny special?
There are many reasons to make the 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny special. The first reason is its minting number, that is, how many times it was made. Only 11 lakh 93 thousand (about 1.1 million) such coins were made. If you compare it with the coins made in other years, then this number is very less.
This coin was made in Denver Mint, so it has a mark of “D”. This means that this coin was prepared in the mint factory of Denver. Those who are collectors of old American coins know that the coins of certain years of Denver Mint are very rare.
Another reason for its specialty is that most of these coins came into circulation at that time. That is, people used them in their everyday transactions. The result was that most of the coins got worn, broken or damaged. It became very difficult to find it in good condition, and this is the reason that the coins that are still safe and in good condition have become very expensive.
Rarity and history of 1914-D Penny
The Lincoln Penny started in the year 1909, when it was first issued on the 100th birth anniversary of Abraham Lincoln. At that time it was the first coin of America on which the picture of a President was printed.
The 1914-D version is considered special because it is one of the “key date” coins. “Key date” means a coin from a year that is limited in number and more difficult to obtain than other coins.
The value of a coin is often determined by how good a condition it is, how few were made, and how many have survived. The 1914-D Lincoln Penny is special in all three respects.
Can you have this precious coin?
Many people look at old coins and think that they may have a special or valuable coin. If you have a 1914 Lincoln Wheat Penny, first look for the “D” mark on it. It is printed on the bottom right of the front side of the coin along with the words “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY.”
If it is with D and is quite clean and not worn, then it is possible that you are holding a priceless treasure.
How much does a 1914-D penny go for at auction?
In 2023, a 1914-D Lincoln penny that was graded “MS-65” sold for about $1 lakh 20 thousand (more than Rs 1 crore) at an auction. Now you must be wondering what is MS-65?
So let’s understand this in simple language too. There is a scale to grade the condition of coins – called “Mint State” or MS. MS-65 means that the coin is almost brand new, there are no scratches or wear on it, and its color and shine are very good.
Most 1914-D pennies you can find are in “Good” or “Fine” grades – that is, in fair to fair condition. These coins also command a good price, but much less than MS grades. However, if a coin is in VF (Very Fine), EF (Extremely Fine), or AU (About Uncirculated) condition, it can sell for hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Why Is This Coin on Every Collector’s List?
The 1914-D Lincoln Wheat Penny is considered a “must-have” coin for every serious coin collector. It is special not only from a monetary perspective, but also because of its history and rarity.
Many people who want to collect the entire Lincoln series of coins face a challenge. This is because finding and obtaining this special penny in good condition is not easy. So as soon as someone finds it in good grade, he immediately tries to include it in his collection.
What to do if you find such a coin?
If you suspect that you have a 1914-D penny, first get it evaluated by a trusted coin expert or numismatic grading service like PCGS or NGC.
Sometimes fake coins are also in the market, so it is very important to confirm its authenticity. Once it is confirmed that your coin is real, you can sell it in a big auction or make it a part of your collection.
Conclusion:
The simple answer is – yes, it is indeed a treasure. Its rarity, historical significance and high price make it a shining star in the world of coin collection.
If you also have this coin, especially if it is in good condition, you can earn up to lakhs of rupees. And if not, this coin is an inspiration to those who collect old coins – that with patience, knowledge and a bit of luck, you too can find a priceless piece of history.
FAQs
Q1: What is a Lincoln Wheat Penny?
A Lincoln Wheat Penny is a U.S. one-cent coin minted between 1909 and 1958, featuring two wheat stalks on the reverse side.
Q2: Why is this particular Lincoln Wheat Penny worth $120,000?
Some Wheat Pennies are rare due to minting errors, low production years, or unique features like missing dates, double dies, or rare mint marks.
Q3: How can I identify a valuable Wheat Penny?
Look for pennies with dates like 1909-S VDB, 1914-D, or 1943 copper pennies. Errors or unusual details also increase value.
Q4: Is the $120K Lincoln Penny still in circulation?
Yes, it’s possible that rare Wheat Pennies are still unknowingly being used or stored in piggy banks, jars, or old collections.
Q5: Where should I check for rare Wheat Pennies?
Search your loose change, old coin jars, inherited collections, or visit local coin dealers and antique shops.
