Not every valuable wheat penny needs a dramatic minting error. Sometimes, just the year and mint mark are enough to make your coin worth big money. Here are the top 10 key dates you should look for so you never miss out.
#10 – 1909 VDB
Value: $30–$40
The very first Lincoln cents, marked with designer Victor David Brenner’s initials, are always in demand.
#9 – 1913-S
Value: $30–$45
Low mintage makes this San Francisco penny a strong collectible.
#8 – 1914-S
Value: $40–$50
Another scarce San Francisco issue, hard to find in circulation.
#7 – 1912-S
Value: $40–$50
A century old and one of the lowest production runs of its era.
#6 – 1922-D (Denver Mint)
Value: $50–$70
A standout coin from the only mint producing cents in 1922.
#5 – 1924-D (Denver Mint)
Value: $60–$75
Fewer than 3 million minted, which is tiny by penny standards.
#4 – 1931-S
Value: $70–$80
The Great Depression year that collectors chase.
#3 – 1909-S
Value: Around $100
The first year of issue from San Francisco—always hot in the market.
#2 – 1914-D (Denver Mint)
Value: $200–$300
Extremely scarce—finding one in decent shape is like striking gold.
#1 – 1909-S VDB
Value: $900–$1,000
The king of wheat pennies. Low mintage, historical significance, and that famous “VDB” on the reverse make it a must-have for serious collectors.
Pro Tip: Even in lower grades, these dates bring solid prices. If you spot one, don’t let it slip through your fingers.
