1939 Lincoln Wheat Penny Value Guide

The 1939 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a classic example of Victor David Brenner's iconic design, struck in a 95% copper bronze composition. As a pre-WWII issue, it represents a stable period in American coinage before the wartime metal shifts of the early 1940s.

What affects the value of 1939 Lincoln Wheat Penny?

• The presence of original red luster significantly increases the value over brown, circulated examples.
• Mint marks from San Francisco (S) or Denver (D) can carry a slight premium over Philadelphia strikes.
• Overall strike sharpness, particularly on the lines of the wheat ears and Lincoln's hair.
• The absence of environmental damage, such as spotting or corrosion on the 95% copper surface.

How to Identify 1939 Lincoln Wheat Penny?

• Verify the 1939 date on the obverse below the 'In God We Trust' motto.
• Check the reverse for the two distinct wheat stalks flanking the words 'One Cent'.
• Confirm the material is bronze, as these coins should weigh approximately 3.11 grams.
• Look for the 'S' or 'D' mint mark below the date, or no mark for the Philadelphia mint.

History of 1939 Lincoln Wheat Penny

The Lincoln Cent was first issued in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it was the first widely circulated American coin to feature a real person. The 'Wheat Penny' design, with its distinctive wheat stalks on the reverse, was produced from 1909 to 1958, becoming a beloved part of American coinage before being replaced by the Lincoln Memorial design.