About the Coin – The $48K 1959 “One Cent” Wheat Reverse Error
In 1959, the U.S. Mint introduced the Lincoln Memorial reverse, ending the 50-year run of the iconic Wheat Ears design (1909–1958).
But a few pennies escaped the presses with the old wheat reverse — creating one of the most famous and valuable modern U.S. Mint errors.
Only 3–5 examples are confirmed, making it a once-in-a-lifetime find.
The Mint’s Rare Mistake
- Year: 1959 (first year of Lincoln Memorial reverse)
- Intended Design: Memorial building reverse
- Error Design: Wheat stalks & “ONE CENT” inscription
- Cause: Likely a leftover reverse die from 1958 accidentally paired with 1959 obverse dies
Why It’s Valuable
- Was never meant to exist — the wheat reverse was officially retired in 1958
- Ultra-low survival — confirmed specimens can be counted on one hand
- Represents a major transitional error in U.S. coinage history
Recent Auction Records
| Grade | Description | Price | Year/Sale |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS-65 RD | Full copper-red luster, PCGS cert | $48,300 | Heritage, 2022 |
| AU-58 | Light wear, still sharp details | $32,000 | Private sale, 2023 |
Value Factors:
- Condition: Uncirculated “Red” coins command top dollar
- Certification: PCGS or NGC authentication is a must
How to Spot This $48K Penny
- Check the Date — Must read 1959
- Flip It Over:
- Correct 1959: Lincoln Memorial
- Error: Wheat stalks & “ONE CENT” lettering
- Mint Mark:
- “D” (Denver) or no mint mark (Philadelphia) — both are equally rare
- Counterfeit Warning:
- Watch for altered 1958 wheat cents with modified dates
- Use a loupe to inspect date integrity
Where to Look for One
- Inherited coin jars or albums
- Customer-wrapped penny rolls from banks
- Estate and garage sales
- Online listings (eBay, Facebook Marketplace — verify authenticity first)
Selling for Maximum Value
- Grade It: Submit to PCGS or NGC (grading fee: $50–$150)
- Auction It:
- Heritage Auctions — premier for rare errors
- eBay — use “1959 Wheat Reverse Error” in title and sharp photos
- Private Sale: Error coin forums, r/Coins, CoinTalk
Why It Could Be in Your Piggy Bank
Most collectors assume all 1959 pennies are ordinary. But this transitional error could be hiding in plain sight — even a heavily circulated example can bring $10,000+.
Uncirculated coins rival the price of a luxury car.
