1938 Lincoln Wheat Cent Value Guide

The 1938 Lincoln Wheat Cent is a classic piece of American numismatic history, representing the pre-war era of the long-running series designed by Victor David Brenner. Collectors prize this bronze coin for its iconic reverse featuring two stalks of wheat, a design that was eventually retired in 1958.

What affects the value of 1938 Lincoln Wheat Cent?

• The presence of original mint luster and the overall strike quality significantly impact the market price.
• The specific mint mark (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco) determines the rarity and demand among collectors.
• Surface preservation, including the lack of scratches, corrosion, or heavy wear on the wheat stalks, dictates the grade.
• The color designation, ranging from Brown (BN) to Red (RD), plays a crucial role in the valuation of uncirculated specimens.

How to Identify 1938 Lincoln Wheat Cent?

• Verify the 1938 date located on the obverse side to the right of Abraham Lincoln's bust.
• Check the reverse for the two distinct wheat stalks flanking the words 'ONE CENT' and 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA'.
• Confirm the material is bronze, which was the standard composition for this era of the Lincoln Cent.
• Look for the 'S' or 'D' mint mark below the date, or the absence of one for the Philadelphia mint.

History of 1938 Lincoln Wheat Cent

The Lincoln Cent, designed by Victor David Brenner, was first issued in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. The 'wheat penny' design, featuring two stalks of wheat, was used from 1909 to 1958. This specific coin, from 1938, predates the change to the Lincoln Memorial reverse design, making it a classic example of early 20th-century American coinage.