1917 Lincoln Cent Value Guide

The 1917 Lincoln Cent is a quintessential piece of American numismatic history, minted as the United States stood on the brink of entering World War I. This 'Wheat Penny' is highly collectible for being part of the first US coin series to feature a portrait of an actual person, Abraham Lincoln.

What affects the value of 1917 Lincoln Cent?

• Overall strike quality and the level of detail remaining on the wheat ears.
• The presence of original red luster versus brown circulated surfaces.
• Mint marks from San Francisco (S) or Denver (D) which can command higher premiums.
• Surface preservation, including the absence of scratches, corrosion, or heavy wear.

How to Identify 1917 Lincoln Cent?

• Check the reverse for the iconic two wheat stalks framing the words 'ONE CENT'.
• Verify the 1917 date on the obverse, located to the right of Lincoln's portrait.
• Confirm the material composition of 95% copper with a mixture of tin and zinc.
• Look for the 'S' or 'D' mint mark below the date, or no mark for the Philadelphia mint.

History of 1917 Lincoln Cent

The Lincoln Cent, first issued in 1909, marked a significant departure from previous US coin designs by featuring a portrait of an actual person, Abraham Lincoln. The 'Wheat Penny' design, with two wheat stalks on the reverse, was minted from 1909 to 1958 and remains a beloved collectible. The 1917 Lincoln Cent is a piece of American history, reflecting a time of immense change as the US was on the verge of entering World War I.