1935 Lincoln Wheat Cent Value Guide

The 1935 Lincoln Wheat Cent is a significant piece of American numismatic history, representing the first era of US coinage to feature a real historical figure. Struck in copper, this coin is highly collectible for its iconic 'wheat ears' reverse design which symbolized national prosperity during the mid-1930s.

What Is 1935 Lincoln Wheat Cent Worth?

The typical price range for 1935 Lincoln Wheat Cent is $1 - $5 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of original red luster significantly increases the value compared to brown, circulated examples.
• Mint marks from San Francisco (S) or Denver (D) can carry a slight premium over Philadelphia strikes.
• The sharpness of the wheat lines on the reverse and Lincoln's hair details on the obverse.
• Overall surface preservation, including the absence of scratches, spots, or heavy wear.

How to Identify 1935 Lincoln Wheat Cent?

• Verify the 1935 date located on the obverse side to the right of Abraham Lincoln's bust.
• Check the reverse for the two distinct stalks of wheat flanking the words 'ONE CENT'.
• Look for the 'S' or 'D' mint mark below the date, or the absence of a mark for the Philadelphia mint.
• Confirm the material is copper, as standard 1935 cents should not be magnetic.

History of 1935 Lincoln Wheat Cent

The Lincoln Cent, first issued in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth, was a radical departure from previous US coinage. It was the first widely circulated American coin to feature a real person rather than an allegorical figure. The wheat reverse design, featuring two stalks of wheat, symbolized national prosperity and remained on the coin until 1958, when it was replaced by the Lincoln Memorial design.