The U.S. Wheat pennies, minted from 1909 to 1958, are treasured collectibles. Named for the two wheat ears on their reverse, these pennies are more than pocket change for enthusiasts—certain rarities within the series can fetch impressive prices. Among the most valuable Wheat pennies are those that contain minting errors, mistakes that make these coins stand out. Collectors eagerly seek these error coins, some of which are worth thousands of dollars, depending on their condition and rarity.
Here’s a closer look at the most valuable Wheat penny errors and what makes them so special.
1. 1943 Double Die Obverse (DDO) Wheat Penny
The 1943 Wheat penny with a “double die obverse” (DDO) is a popular and valuable error. A DDO error happens when the die, which imprints designs onto coins, shifts slightly between strikes, creating a doubled image. The 1943 DDO error is particularly noticeable, with distinct doubling visible on the word “Liberty” and parts of the digits “9” and “3” in the date.
- Value by Condition: A circulated coin with this error might bring in around $30. In “about uncirculated” (AU55) condition, values rise to about $100. For an uncirculated, gem-quality example (MS65), collectors are willing to pay around $1,500.
2. 1943 Denver Mint Repunched Mintmark (RPM) Wheat Penny
In 1943, the Denver Mint produced another popular error, known as the repunched mintmark (RPM). This error occurs when the mintmark, in this case, a “D” for Denver, is struck twice. The initial mark often appears slightly below and to the left of the second.
- Value by Condition: Fine-grade examples (F12) are worth approximately $75. Near-mint examples (AU55) fetch around $200, while uncirculated coins vary dramatically, with values ranging from $1,000 up to $15,000 for the highest grades.
3. 1944 Denver Over San Francisco (D over S) Mintmark Wheat Penny
The “D over S” mintmark error of 1944 is another highly sought-after Wheat penny. This error occurred when a die intended for San Francisco, stamped with an “S,” was mistakenly used in Denver and re-stamped with a “D.” Close inspection can reveal traces of the “S” beneath the “D.”
- Value by Condition: Fine condition circulated examples sell for around $75. Coins graded as “about uncirculated” are valued at about $260. Mint state coins are where this error shines, with values climbing from $4,000 up to $20,000 for top-quality examples.
4. 1936 Double Die Obverse Wheat Penny
The 1936 Wheat penny also has a DDO variant, primarily noticeable in the words “In God We Trust” and “Liberty,” as well as in the date. Collectors prize this error for its clarity and distinct doubling effect.
- Value by Condition: Lower-grade circulated coins can sell for about $100. About uncirculated (AU55) examples go for around $200. For gem-quality coins graded MS65, prices climb to about $600. The most pristine specimens can fetch up to $5,000.
5. 1909 San Francisco Mint Double Mintmark (S over Horizontal S) Wheat Penny
The 1909 Wheat penny, the first year of the series, is always a prized possession. However, some pennies from the San Francisco Mint bear an intriguing error: a second “S” mintmark was struck over an initial, horizontally placed “S.” This error is subtle, often requiring magnification to spot.
Read Also- Top 5 Most Valuable Wheat Penny Error Coins
- Value by Condition: Circulated coins are worth around $100, while about uncirculated examples reach approximately $250. The value of mint-state coins varies significantly, with brown-toned examples graded MS60 worth around $330. However, only five examples graded MS67 in a red tone exist, the last of which sold at auction in 2022 for an impressive $32,900.
Summary Table of Valuable Wheat Penny Errors
| Coin Year | Error Type | Condition (Grade) | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 | Double Die Obverse (DDO) | Circulated | $30 |
| 1943 | Double Die Obverse (DDO) | About Uncirculated (AU55) | $100 |
| 1943 | Double Die Obverse (DDO) | Mint State (MS65) | $1,500 |
| 1943-D | Repunched Mintmark (RPM) | Fine (F12) | $75 |
| 1943-D | Repunched Mintmark (RPM) | About Uncirculated (AU55) | $200 |
| 1943-D | Repunched Mintmark (RPM) | Mint State (MS65+) | $1,000-$15,000 |
| 1944-D/S | D Over S Mintmark | Fine (F12) | $75 |
| 1944-D/S | D Over S Mintmark | About Uncirculated (AU55) | $260 |
| 1944-D/S | D Over S Mintmark | Mint State (MS65+) | $4,000-$20,000 |
| 1936 | Double Die Obverse (DDO) | Circulated | $100 |
| 1936 | Double Die Obverse (DDO) | About Uncirculated (AU55) | $200 |
| 1936 | Double Die Obverse (DDO) | Mint State (MS65) | $600 |
| 1936 | Double Die Obverse (DDO) | Finest Known (MS67) | $5,000 |
| 1909-S | S Over Horizontal S Mintmark | Circulated | $100 |
| 1909-S | S Over Horizontal S Mintmark | About Uncirculated (AU55) | $250 |
| 1909-S | S Over Horizontal S Mintmark | Mint State (MS67) | $32,900 |
Why Are Error Coins Valuable?
Error coins are appealing to collectors because of their rarity and unique characteristics. Unlike standard pennies, which are produced in the millions, error coins represent unusual variations due to unintended mistakes during production. The scarcity and uniqueness of these coins create a competitive market, with collectors willing to pay a premium, especially for well-preserved examples.
What makes a Wheat penny valuable?
Wheat pennies become valuable due to rarity, minting errors, or being in mint condition. Error coins are particularly valuable as they are unique and less commonly found.
How can I tell if my Wheat penny has an error?
Examine the coin with a magnifying glass. Look for doubling in letters or numbers, repunched mintmarks, or any unusual marks that differ from standard pennies.
What is a repunched mintmark?
A repunched mintmark occurs when a mintmark is accidentally stamped more than once, creating a visible double mark. This type of error is sought after by collectors.
