1956 D Lincoln Cent Value Guide

The 1956 D Lincoln Cent is a classic example of the Wheat Cent series, featuring Victor David Brenner's iconic portrait of Abraham Lincoln. Struck at the Denver Mint, this coin represents the final years of the wheat ear reverse design before it was replaced in 1959.

What Is 1956 D Lincoln Cent Worth?

The typical price range for 1956 D Lincoln Cent is $0 - $0 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.
• Overall strike quality and the sharpness of the wheat lines on the reverse affect the market price.
• Surface preservation, including the absence of scratches, spots, or heavy wear from circulation.
• The current market value for average circulated specimens typically ranges from $0.05 to $0.10.

How to Identify 1956 D Lincoln Cent?

• Locate the 'D' mint mark positioned directly below the 1956 date on the obverse side.
• Verify the reverse features two stalks of wheat, which distinguishes it from the later Memorial design.
• Check for the designer's initials 'VDB' which may be visible on the base of Lincoln's shoulder.
• Examine the coin's composition, which should be 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc.

History of 1956 D Lincoln Cent

The Lincoln Cent was first introduced 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 rather than an allegorical figure. The Wheat Cent design, with two wheat ears on the reverse, was produced from 1909 to 1958. In 1959, the reverse design was changed to feature the Lincoln Memorial, which remained until 2008.