1942 S Lincoln Wheat Cent: Coin Value Prices, Price Chart, Coin Photos, Mintage Figures, Coin Melt Value, Metal Composition, Mint Mark Location, Statistics & Facts. Buy & Sell This Coin. This page also shows coins listed for sale so you can buy and sell.
The coin depicted is a 1942-S Lincoln Wheat Cent, a bronze-composite penny from the United States. It’s a key piece for numismatists and those interested in American history, as it represents a transitional period for U.S. coinage during World War II.
Obverse (Heads) The obverse of the coin features a right-facing profile of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. President. The design, created by Victor David Brenner, has been a staple of the Lincoln cent since its introduction in 1909. The image of Lincoln is detailed, showing his beard, hair, and a portion of his suit. Above his head, the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” is inscribed in a semi-circle. To his left, the word “LIBERTY” is prominently displayed, and to his right, the year of mintage, “1942,” is visible. Below the year, a small “S” mint mark indicates that the coin was struck at the San Francisco Mint.
Reverse (Tails) While not visible in the provided image, the reverse of the coin features two stalks of durum wheat, which is why it’s commonly known as the “Wheat Cent.” The denomination “ONE CENT” is centered between the wheat stalks, and the country’s name, “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” is inscribed in a semi-circle above the denomination. The design of the reverse was also created by Victor David Brenner.
Historical Significance The 1942-S Lincoln Wheat Cent holds a unique place in history due to the wartime events that were unfolding at the time of its production. The year 1942 was a pivotal moment in World War II, and the demand for copper for military use led the U.S. government to seek alternatives for coin production. This particular coin, however, was struck before the full-scale transition to steel cents in 1943. The 1942 bronze composition, made of 95% copper and 5% zinc, was a traditional formulation for cents at that time. The San Francisco Mint, with its “S” mint mark, was one of three U.S. Mints producing these coins, alongside Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (“D” mint mark).
The mintage of the 1942-S cent was relatively high, with over 100 million pieces produced. This makes it a common date for collectors, but its condition and any unique characteristics, such as a full strike or a rare die variety, can significantly impact its value. As with all coins, its grade—a measure of its condition—is a key factor in determining its worth. Coins in “uncirculated” or “mint state” condition, with no signs of wear, are far more valuable than those that have been heavily used.
In summary, the 1942-S Lincoln Wheat Cent is more than just a piece of currency; it’s a tangible link to a defining period in American history. It encapsulates the artistic legacy of Victor David Brenner and serves as a testament to the changes forced by global conflict. For collectors, it’s a classic example of the Lincoln cent series, and for the public, it’s a small but significant artifact from the Greatest Generation.
