1916 Lincoln Wheat Penny Value Guide

The 1916 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a significant early issue in the series designed by Victor David Brenner to honor Abraham Lincoln's centennial. As one of the first US coins to feature a real historical figure rather than an allegorical representation, it remains a cornerstone for bronze cent collectors.

What affects the value of 1916 Lincoln Wheat Penny?

• The presence of a mint mark (S for San Francisco or D for Denver) significantly impacts the $1-$25 value range.
• Overall strike quality and the amount of wear on Lincoln's cheek and the wheat lines.
• The preservation of original red luster versus brown oxidation common in 1916 bronze issues.
• Surface marks, scratches, or signs of cleaning which can drastically reduce collector demand.

How to Identify 1916 Lincoln Wheat Penny?

• Verify the 1916 date located on the right side of the obverse below the 'In God We Trust' motto.
• Check for the designer's initials 'V.D.B.' which were removed from the reverse in 1909 but may appear on the shoulder truncation in later years.
• Confirm the material is bronze, consisting of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc.
• Examine the reverse for the two distinct stalks of wheat framing the words 'ONE CENT'.

History of 1916 Lincoln Wheat Penny

The Lincoln Cent, first issued in 1909 to commemorate Abraham Lincoln's 100th birthday, was a radical departure from previous US coin designs. Its obverse features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, while the original reverse, known as the 'Wheat Cent' design, depicted two stalks of wheat. This coin was designed by Victor David Brenner and was the first US coin to feature a real person rather than an allegorical figure. The 1916 issue is a notable year within this series.