A viral Facebook post from Elliana Higgins has collectors buzzing about the 1941-S Lincoln Wheat Penny – with some rare varieties potentially worth significant money. At PennyVerse.info, we’ve investigated this claim and created a complete guide to help you identify valuable 1941-S pennies in your collection.
Understanding the Potentially Valuable Varieties
The image shows two intriguing variations:
- First Example:
- “ONE CENT”
- “UNITED STATES”
- “OFAMERICA” (merged lettering)
- Second Example:
- “ONE CENT”
- “NITED STATES” (missing “U”)
- “OFAPLANCA” (dramatic mis-strike)
Evaluating These Potential Errors
1. The “OFAMERICA” Merged Lettering
- Possible Causes:
- Die deterioration
- Filled die error
- Strike-through error
- Value Potential:
- Minor merging: 5−5−20
- Complete merging with other errors: 50−50−300
2. The “NITED STATES/OFAPLANCA” Dramatic Mis-Strike
- Possible Causes:
- Severe die deterioration
- Multiple strike error
- Experimental die test
- Value Potential:
- If authentic: 500−500−5,000+
- Requires professional authentication
Key Factors That Increase Value
- Mintmark Visibility – Clear “S” mintmark is essential
- Error Significance – More dramatic errors command higher prices
- Coin Condition – Uncirculated examples worth exponentially more
- Authentication – PCGS/NGC certification adds credibility
Step-by-Step Identification Guide
1. Examine Under Proper Lighting
- Use a 60-watt bulb at 45° angle
- Rotate coin to reveal errors
2. Check Weight & Dimensions
- Should weigh 3.11 grams
- Diameter: 19mm
- Thickness: 1.5mm
3. Magnification Inspection
- 10x loupe minimum
- Look for:
- Doubled dies
- Repunched mintmarks
- Strike-through errors
4. Compare to Known Varieties
- Reference PCGS CoinFacts
- Check variety guides
- Consult error specialists
Grading & Valuation
| Grade | Normal 1941-S | With Minor Errors | With Major Errors |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $0.25 | 1−1−5 | 20−20−50 |
| VF-20 | $1.50 | 5−5−15 | 50−50−150 |
| AU-50 | $5 | 15−15−30 | 150−150−300 |
| MS-63 | $15 | 30−30−60 | 300−300−600 |
| MS-65 | $50 | 100−100−250 | 500−500−2,500 |
Where to Find These Pennies
- Old Collections – Especially from West Coast sources
- Bank Rolls – Still possible in original rolls
- Estate Sales – Often overlooked in bulk lots
- Coin Shows – Dealers’ “junk” boxes
Professional Authentication Process
- Initial Photos – Clear images of both sides
- Weight/Diameter Check – Verify specifications
- Magnified Images – Show error details
- Submit to NGC/PCGS – For official attribution
Selling Options for Valuable Finds
For Minor Errors (5−5−300)
- eBay (list as “1941-S Wheat Penny Error”)
- Local coin shops
- Coin club auctions
For Major Errors ($300+)
- Heritage Auctions
- GreatCollections
- Error coin specialists
Beware of Altered Coins
Common fakes include:
- Tooled coins (artificially created errors)
- Laser-engraved “errors”
- Chemical alterations
- Electroplated surfaces
Join Our Wheat Penny Collector Community
At PennyVerse.info you’ll get:
- Free weekly error coin alerts
- Live Q&A with grading experts
- Access to our rarity database
- Members-only buying opportunities
Found an interesting 1941-S penny? Our experts provide free preliminary evaluations – submit your photos today!
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