1919 Wheat Penny Value Breakdown
| Variety | Circulated Value | Mint State (MS-63) | Gem (MS-67+ Red) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1919 (Philadelphia) | 0.50−0.50−5 | 50−50−200 | 5,000−5,000−18,000 |
| 1919-D (Denver) | 1−1−10 | 100−100−500 | 10,000−10,000−50,000 |
| 1919-S (San Francisco) | 2−2−20 | 200−200−1,000 | 15,000−15,000−55,000 |
Key Factors Affecting Value
1. Mintmark Rarity
- 1919 (No mintmark): 392,021,000 minted
- 1919-D: 57,154,000 minted
- 1919-S: 139,760,000 minted
2. Condition & Color
- Red (RD): Full original luster (highest value)
- Red-Brown (RB): 30-50% value reduction
- Brown (BN): 80-90% value reduction
3. Notable Errors
- Doubled Dies: 500−500−5,000+
- Repunched Mintmarks: 300−300−3,000
- Off-Center Strikes: 100−100−1,000
How to Grade Your 1919 Penny
Step-by-Step Evaluation
- Locate Mintmark (below wheat stalks)
- Check Wear (Lincoln’s cheek, wheat ears)
- Assess Color under natural light
- Magnify for Errors (10x loupe recommended)
Where to Find These Rare Pennies
- Old coin rolls (especially customer-wrapped)
- Estate sales (unsearched collections)
- Inherited collections (often overlooked)
Professional Selling Advice
Top Grades: Heritage Auctions
Mid Grades: eBay (certified coins only)
Circulated: Local coin shops
Avoid: Pawn shops, “cash for coins” kiosks
Preservation Tips
- Handle by edges with cotton gloves
- Store in archival-quality holders
- Avoid PVC flips
- Maintain stable humidity
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the 1919-S most valuable?
A: Lower survival rate in gem condition despite higher mintage.
Q: How rare are full red specimens?
A: Extremely rare – most have toned to brown.
Q: Where’s the mintmark located?
A: Below wheat stalks on reverse.
Why Collectors Prize 1919 Pennies
- Post-WWI coinage with historical significance
- Last year of high-relief design
- Challenging to find in red condition
Want to learn more about wheat pennies? Explore our complete guide
