1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny Value Guide

The 1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny is a classic copper cent designed by Victor David Brenner to honor the centennial of Abraham Lincoln's birth. As one of the final years of the iconic wheat stalk reverse design, it remains a staple for collectors completing mid-century sets.

What affects the value of 1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny?

• The presence of a mint mark, such as 'D' for Denver or 'S' for San Francisco, can influence rarity.
• Overall strike quality and the amount of original red luster remaining on the copper surface.
• The level of wear on the high points of Lincoln's hair and the fine lines of the wheat stalks.
• Significant errors, most notably the famous 1955 doubled die variety, which commands a massive premium over standard strikes.

How to Identify 1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny?

• Verify the date '1955' on the obverse to the right of Lincoln's bust.
• Check the reverse for the two distinct stalks of wheat framing the words 'ONE CENT'.
• Confirm the material is copper, as 1955 cents were not produced in the steel composition used during the war.
• Look for the 'L' in LIBERTY positioned near the left rim of the coin's obverse.

History of 1955 Lincoln Wheat Penny

The Wheat Penny, officially the Lincoln Cent, was minted from 1909 to 1958. It was designed by Victor David Brenner to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. The obverse features a bust of Lincoln, while the reverse initially depicted two stalks of wheat, symbolizing national prosperity. This design was replaced in 1959 by the Lincoln Memorial design.