1912 Lincoln Wheat Cent Value Guide

The 1912 Lincoln Wheat Cent is a significant early issue in the long-running series, minted just three years after the design's historic 1909 debut. Composed of 95% copper, this coin is highly collectible as it represents the early era of the first U.S. currency to feature a real historical figure.

What affects the value of 1912 Lincoln Wheat Cent?

• The presence of a mint mark, specifically the 'S' for San Francisco, significantly increases the value over the Philadelphia strike.
• Overall strike quality and the amount of wear on Lincoln's cheek and the wheat lines on the reverse.
• The preservation of the original red copper luster versus a brown, circulated patina.
• The absence of environmental damage, scratches, or improper cleaning which can devalue the coin below the $1-$2 range.

How to Identify 1912 Lincoln Wheat Cent?

• Verify the 1912 date located on the right side of the obverse below the 'In God We Trust' motto.
• Check the reverse for the two distinct stalks of wheat framing the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.
• Look for the designer's initials 'V.D.B.' which were removed from the reverse in late 1909 but may appear on the base of Lincoln's shoulder in later strikes.
• Examine the mint mark below the date; 1912 coins were struck in Philadelphia (no mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S).

History of 1912 Lincoln Wheat Cent

The Lincoln Cent was first introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it was the first regularly issued American coin to bear the likeness of a real person. The 'Wheat Cent' reverse, featuring two stalks of wheat, was used from 1909 to 1958, symbolizing national prosperity. Coins from the early 1900s, especially those with visible mint marks, are highly sought after by collectors.