Top 11 Most Valuable Wheat Penny Error Coins – Rare Finds Worth Collecting

Wheat pennies, produced from 1909 to 1958, are a beloved part of U.S. coinage history. The two wheat ears on the reverse give these coins their name, but some are worth far more than their face value due to unique errors or rare features. Collectors are willing to pay substantial amounts for these fascinating coins. Here’s a look at the most valuable Wheat penny errors and what makes them so special.

1. 1943 Double Die Obverse – $1,500

This error resulted from a die-making mistake, leaving a doubled image on the obverse. The doubling is most noticeable on “Liberty” and the numbers 9 and 3 in the date. Coins in circulated condition are valued at $30, while uncirculated examples can fetch as much as $1,500.

2. 1943-D Repunched Mintmark – $15,000

Some 1943-D pennies were struck with their “D” mintmark punched multiple times, creating a repunched mintmark error. Circulated coins in fine condition sell for $75, but mint state examples can go for $1,000 to $15,000.

3. 1944 D/S Mintmark – $20,000

This penny features an “S” mintmark beneath a “D” due to an error during die preparation. Fine-condition coins are worth around $75, while mint state examples can sell for $4,000 to $20,000.

4. 1936 Double Die Obverse – $5,000

The 1936 penny exhibits doubling on “In God We Trust,” “Liberty,” and the date. Circulated examples are worth $100, while MS65 coins in mint condition can fetch up to $5,000.

5. 1909 S Over Horizontal S – $32,900

This 1909 San Francisco mint penny features a second, horizontal “S” mintmark underneath the vertical one. Circulated coins are valued at $100, while pristine MS67 examples have sold for as much as $32,900.

6. 1917 Double Die Obverse – $135,000

Doubling is evident in “In God We Trust” and the date on these 1917 pennies. Circulated examples are worth $200, while the finest known MS67+ example is valued at $135,000.

7. 1922 No D – $275,000

This penny from the Denver mint mistakenly lacks its “D” mintmark due to die polishing. Circulated examples start at $500, while mint state coins with a strong reverse are worth $275,000.

8. 1955 Double Die Obverse – $288,000

The 1955 penny shows dramatic doubling across the entire obverse. Circulated examples start at $1,200, while the finest MS65+ red coins are valued at $288,000.

9. 1958 Double Die Obverse – $1.14 Million

The 1958 double die penny is one of the rarest error coins, with only three known examples. An MS65 coin holds a staggering value of $1.14 million.

10. 1943 Bronze Cent – $1 Million

Mistakenly struck on bronze planchets instead of steel, the 1943 bronze penny is exceedingly rare. Circulated examples in XF45 condition are worth $215,000, while the sole MS63 red example is valued at $1 million.

11. 1943 Experimental Shell Case Cent – $150,000

These test coins, struck in a unique alloy of copper, zinc, and silver, are rare collectibles. If found, these pennies are estimated to be worth around $150,000.

What Makes Wheat Penny Errors Valuable?

1. Rarity: Errors such as double dies or missing mintmarks occur in limited numbers.
2. Historical Significance: Unique features or materials from specific eras enhance their desirability.
3. Condition: Coins in mint state or with a vibrant red tone fetch the highest prices.

Wheat penny errors are a collector’s dream, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history of U.S. coinage. Whether you’re hunting for a 1943 bronze penny or a double die obverse, these coins represent valuable pieces of numismatic history.

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