Your 1939 Wheat Penny might be worth far more than one cent — especially if it has a rare error or is in high-grade condition. While most 1939 pennies are common, certain varieties have surprised collectors with values reaching thousands of dollars… and some extreme error rumors even claim million-dollar potential! 
Let’s break down everything you need to know, step-by-step.
Quick History of the 1939 Wheat Penny
The 1939 penny is part of the famous Lincoln Wheat Cent series.
Key Details
- Designer: Victor D. Brenner
- Obverse: Abraham Lincoln’s portrait
- Reverse: “Wheat Ears” classic design
- Mints:
- Philadelphia (no mintmark)
- Denver (D)
- San Francisco (S)
Although millions were minted, only a few rare examples bring high premiums today.
1939 Wheat Penny Varieties
Here are the three main mint versions collectors look for:
1939 (No Mintmark — Philadelphia)
Most common variety
Valuable mainly in high grades
1939-D (Denver Mint)
Scarcer in mint-state (uncirculated)
Popular among collectors
1939-S (San Francisco Mint)
Lower mintage
Often more valuable in top grades
1939 Wheat Penny Value Chart (Updated for 2025)
Perfect for quick reference 
| Coin Variety | Circulated Value | Uncirculated (MS65+) | Rare Error Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1939 (no mintmark) | $0.10 – $1 | $25 – $150 | Up to $1,000+ |
| 1939-D | $0.20 – $2 | $40 – $200 | Up to $5,000+ |
| 1939-S | $0.25 – $3 | $50 – $250 | Up to $10,000+ |
| Major Errors (off-center, double dies, wrong planchet) | Varies | Varies | $50,000 – $5,000,000* |
*The “$5M” value reflects extreme numismatic lore — not typical sales.
Actual high values depend on authentication by PCGS or NGC.
Is a Million-Dollar 1939 Penny Possible?
Rumors in the coin-collecting world suggest some ultra-rare 1939 pennies with major errors could reach million-dollar status. These are not normal coins — they involve:
- Wrong metal planchets
- Dramatic double dies
- Unusual striking mistakes
- Top-level grading (MS67 or MS68+)
While extremely rare, these stories show how intense collector demand can be. 
How to Check Your 1939 Wheat Penny (Step-by-Step)
Step — Use a 10x Magnifier
Look for:
- Doubled letters or numbers
- Distorted shapes
- Thick outlines or ghost images
Step — Check for Errors
The most valuable 1939 pennies include:
Double-die obverse- Off-center strikes
- Broadstruck coins
- Wrong planchet errors
A wrong-planchet penny may weigh differently from the standard 3.11 grams.
Step — Evaluate the Condition
Higher grades = Higher value
- Sharp details
- No scratches
- Strong original luster
Step 
— Get It Professionally Graded
If your coin looks special, send it to:
- PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service)
- NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
A certified coin will always sell for more. 
Selling Your 1939 Wheat Penny
If you think your coin is valuable:
Never clean it!
Cleaning destroys collector value — always keep original surfaces.
Get it certified (PCGS/NGC)
It proves authenticity and boosts price.
Sell with reputable auction houses
- Heritage Auctions
- Stack’s Bowers
Great for rare errors and high-grade coins.
Free Bonus for Collectors
Download: Rare Wheat Penny Checklist
Recommended: Top 10x Magnifiers for Coin Collectors
Free Appraisal: Text PENNY to 555-1939
Think You Found a Valuable 1939 Penny?
Share your photos or story in the comments — our community would love to help! 
