The Lincoln Penny, also called the Lincoln Cent, has been part of American money for more than 100 years. It first came out in 1909 to honor 100 years since Abraham Lincoln birth. The front of the coin almost always shows Lincoln face. Over time, the back design has changed many times.
Most Lincoln Pennies are common and easy to find. But some years and mint marks are rare. These rare coins can be worth a lot of money in 2026.
History of the Lincoln Penny
The Lincoln Penny was designed by Victor David Brenner in 1909. The front shows Lincoln portrait. The back first showed two wheat stalks, so people called them Wheat Pennies.
In 1959, the back design changed to the Lincoln Memorial. In 2009, special coins were made to celebrate 200 years of Lincoln birth. These had different designs on the back.
Since 2010, the coin shows the Union Shield on the reverse. Even with design changes, the Lincoln Penny stays popular.
What Affects Lincoln Penny Value
The value of a Lincoln Penny depends on many things. Let us look at the main factors.
Year of Minting – Some years are rare because fewer coins were made. Coins like 1909-S VDB and 1914-D are very valuable.
Mint Mark – Coins were made in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. San Francisco coins have an S and are often rarer.
Condition – Better condition means higher value. Coins graded MS-65 or higher are worth more.
Errors – Mint mistakes like double strikes or off-center coins increase value.
Demand – If many collectors want a coin, the price goes up.
Lincoln Penny Value Chart 2026
Here is a simple value chart for 2026. Values depend on condition.
| Year | Mint Mark | Avg Value | High Grade Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1909 | None | 1 to 2 dollars | 2000+ dollars | First year, VDB very popular |
| 1909-S | S | 1500 to 2500 dollars | 20000+ dollars | 1909-S VDB rare and famous |
| 1914 | D | 100 to 500 dollars | 3000+ dollars | Low mintage key date |
| 1922 | None | 300 to 500 dollars | 5000+ dollars | 1922 Plain error coin |
| 1931-S | S | 50 to 150 dollars | 1000 to 2000 dollars | Rare in high grade |
| 1943 | None | 0.10 to 0.50 dollars | 1000 to 2000 dollars | Copper error coin special |
| 1955 | None | 1 to 2 dollars | 1500+ dollars | Doubled Die error |
| 1969-S | S | 100 to 300 dollars | 10000+ dollars | Doubled Die rare error |
| 1982 | None | 0.10 to 1 dollar | 50 to 200 dollars | Composition change year |
| 2009 | None | 1 to 3 dollars | 100+ dollars | Special 200th birth series |
Key Highlights from the Chart
The 1909-S VDB is one of the most wanted coins. In average condition, it can sell for thousands. In top condition, it can go above 20000 dollars.
The 1914-D is another key coin. It had low mintage and is hard to find. High grade versions can cross 3000 dollars.
The 1922 Plain is a mint error coin. It is rare because the mint mark is missing. Top examples can sell for more than 5000 dollars.
The 1943 Copper Penny is very special. Most 1943 pennies were steel, but some were copper by mistake. These copper coins can sell for 1000 to 2000 dollars.
The 1955 Doubled Die shows clear doubling in letters and date. It is one of the most famous error coins. Good condition coins can sell for thousands.
The 1969-S Doubled Die is even rarer. In high grade, it can reach tens of thousands.
The 1982 penny is important because of metal change. Some versions are more valuable. The 2009 series is special for Lincoln 200th birth anniversary.
How to Grade Your Lincoln Penny
Grading means checking the coin condition. Coins are graded from 1 to 70. Higher number means better condition.
Here is a simple grading guide:
| Grade | Meaning |
|---|---|
| P-1 | Very worn, little detail |
| G-4 to G-6 | Worn but clear |
| F-12 to F-15 | Moderate wear |
| VF-20 to VF-30 | Light wear |
| EF-40 to EF-45 | Slight wear |
| MS-60 to MS-70 | No wear, mint condition |
Rare coins in high grades are worth much more. A 1909-S VDB in mint condition is like gold for collectors.
Are Lincoln Pennies a Good Investment in 2026
In 2026, Lincoln Pennies are still popular. Most are cheap, but rare dates are valuable. High grade coins continue to increase in price.
Collectors and investors both like them. They mix history and value in one small coin. A simple penny can become a big treasure.
If you have old pennies, check the year and mint mark. You might be holding something special.
