1931-S Lincoln Wheat Penny Value Guide

The 1931-S Lincoln Wheat Penny is a premier 'key date' in the series, distinguished by an incredibly low mintage of only 866,000 pieces during the Great Depression. While many were saved by contemporary collectors, it remains a cornerstone of the small cent series and a must-have for serious numismatists.

What Is 1931-S Lincoln Wheat Penny Worth?

The typical price range for 1931-S Lincoln Wheat Penny is $85 - $94 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The extremely low mintage of 866,000 significantly drives market demand and price.
• Numerical grade and surface preservation, with uncirculated examples commanding premiums.
• The presence of original red (RD) or red-brown (RB) copper luster versus brown (BN) surfaces.
• Overall eye appeal and the absence of distracting scratches or environmental spotting.

How to Identify 1931-S Lincoln Wheat Penny?

• Locate the 'S' mint mark on the obverse directly below the date 1931.
• Verify the composition of 95% copper with a mixture of tin and zinc.
• Examine the reverse for the two distinct wheat stalks framing the words 'ONE CENT'.
• Check for sharp details on Lincoln's hair and the wheat lines, as many were preserved in higher grades.

History of 1931-S Lincoln Wheat Penny

The 1931-S is one of the most famous 'key date' coins in the Lincoln Wheat Cent series. Despite being produced during the height of the Great Depression, its mintage was extremely low at only 866,000 pieces. Because many people at the time recognized its potential rarity and saved them, it is often found in higher grades than other rare dates, yet it remains a holy grail for collectors of the series.