A single 1917 Lincoln Wheat Penny just sold for an eye-popping $38,813, and collectors are now on the hunt. These century-old coins from the World War I era are quietly turning up in collections—and could be worth tens of thousands if they’re in top condition.
Why This 1917 Penny Is So Valuable
Several factors make this coin a high-value target for collectors:
- Low mintage of certain varieties
- Mint State condition (MS-65 or higher is extremely rare)
- Strong collector demand for early Lincoln Wheat Cents
- Historic value from the World War I period
How Much Are 1917 Pennies Worth?
| Variety | Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1917 (No Mintmark) | MS-68 | $38,813 |
| 1917 (No Mintmark) | MS-66 | $21,275 |
| 1917-S | MS-65 | $36,800 |
| 1917-D | AU-58 | $1,200–$2,500 |
How to Spot a Valuable 1917 Penny
Check the Mintmark:
- No mark = Philadelphia
- “D” = Denver
- “S” = San Francisco
Inspect the Condition:
- Full red luster (no brown or dark toning)
- Crisp wheat stalks on the reverse
- No wear on Lincoln’s jaw, cheek, or coat
Look for Mint Errors:
- Doubled dies
- Off-center strikes
- Repunched mintmarks (RPMs)
Where These Rare Coins Might Be Hiding
- Forgotten inheritances and coin albums
- Old bank rolls from the 1910s–1930s
- Junk bins in antique shops
- Estate sales in older neighborhoods
Found One? Here’s What To Do:
- Handle by the edges only (never touch the surface)
- Take clear, well-lit photos of both sides
- Submit to a trusted grader like PCGS or NGC
- Consider selling at major auctions like Heritage or Stack’s Bowers
“A high-grade 1917 Wheat Penny is one of the crown jewels of any collection.”
— Sarah Miller, NGC Senior Grader
