Selling Wheat Pennies | A How To
Wheat pennies minted from 1909 to 1958 are a popular series with collectors, with many higher value dates and mints. Coins from the 1940s and 1950s are plentiful and affordable, making them popular with new and beginning collectors.
Sorting Wheat Pennies by Decades
Beginning by sorting the pennies by decades, which aids in the selling process by grouping coins in similar value categories, an advanced sort method identifies higher value pennies. Be aware of specific mintmarks and the condition of the coin.
First Decade of Wheat Cents: 1909 to 1919
Comparing your coins to the image will help you identify higher-potential coins. The 1914-D penny is a standout issue, with the 1912-S and 1914-S also showing strong value in any grade.
The 1920’s Decade
Philadelphia struck far more cents than the branch mints in the 1920s, and collectors prize the “D” and “S” mints of the decade; a close examination of the reverse, and detail in the wheat stalks, is key to higher premiums.
The 1930’s Decade
Set these aside to mention when selling, as finely detailed wheat stalks indicate an upper grade example. San Francisco struck only 866,000 cents in 1931 (second lowest), and all are highly valued.
The 1940’s Decade
The silver-blue color of these coins is set aside to present separately when selling, and higher condition coins are worthy of separation.
The 1950’s Decade
Wheat pennies from the 1950s are affordable and popular among young and beginning collectors, with the 1955 San Francisco (“S” mintmark) variety being particularly popular. A slight premium is often given to coins with only light wear and pleasing, mark-free surfaces.
Placing a Value on Wheat Pennies
After sorting and organizing the coins by decades, dates, and mintmarks, inspect them one last time for condition. Coins minted in the early teens, twenties, and thirties decades are breaking away from “common” status, and the popular “S” mints are now worth a premium.
Locating Dealers
When it comes to selling wheat pennies, knowing the value of your coins is crucial. You can find multiple selling opportunities by visiting coin shows and dealers’ websites. Always contact dealers first; they are held to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.
Coin Values | CoinStudy Articles
Wheat pennies grouped by decade, with mint marked and high condition examples highlighted, make a good presentation to dealers. Never clean your coins; a quick glance at the value chart reveals a significant difference in the value of your box of old pennies.
What dealers pay for wheat pennies?
Given the popularity of collecting Lincoln Wheat cents, any wheat penny is worth at least 3-5 cents to most dealers, and there will always be a demand for high-quality coins.
Where can I sell my pennies for money?
Where Can I Sell My Coins?
- Heritage Auctions u2013 A consignment program for coins.
- EBay u2013 View all live coin auctions here.
- CoinWorld u2013 They have an online coin classifieds forum.
- Stack’s Bowers u2013 They provide certified coin and currency auctions (formerly Teletrade).
How can I sell my wheat pennies?
Because old wheat pennies are heavy and a roll of 50 coins is expensive to mail, finding a local dealer to meet at their shop or at a coin show is a cost-effective way to sell Wheat Pennies to dealers.
How can I sell my old pennies?
Let’s take a look at the three most common methods for selling your coins.
- 1.) Sell to a Coin Shop – The coin dealer will buy them for less than they are worth, which is normal.
- 2.) Physical Auction – Find an auction and see if the auction house is interested in listing your collection.
Are wheat pennies really worth anything?
Most wheat cents (wheat pennies were minted between 1909 and 1956) are worth about 4 to 5 cents, but better examples (especially those in near-perfect condition) can be worth much more. Indian Head pennies from 1859 to 1879 are generally worth more than $10.
How much can I get for my wheat pennies?
Most dealers will pay at least 4 cents for any wheat penny, and given the popularity of collecting Lincoln Wheat cents, there will always be a demand for high-grade coins, so collect coins in the highest grade you can afford.
How much is a 1776 to 1976 quarter worth?
In circulated condition, standard 1776-1976 clad quarters are only worth $0.25, and these coins only sell for a premium in uncirculated condition. The 1776-1976 S proof quarter is worth around $5 in PR 65 condition.
Where can I sell my old coins for the best price?
Where are the best places to sell coins on the internet?
- Heritage Auctions 10% fee. Consignment program.
- Ebay 10% fee plus listing fees. Large audience.
- Apmex Well-known, but won’t pay you until after you’ve shipped your coins.
- Modern Coin Mart Won’t pay you until after you’ve sent them your coins.
Should you clean wheat pennies?
Cleaning foreign coins, Morgan dollars, wheat pennies, and other valuables to remove corrosion is a delicate and dangerous task; we do not recommend cleaning rare coins if you plan to sell them because cleaning such valuable items devalues them.
How much is a 1944 wheat penny worth?
The 1944 S Wheat Penny is worth an average of 15 cents on CoinTrackers.com, but one in certified mint state (MS ) could be worth $8.
How do I know if my 1944 wheat penny is worth anything?
If you have a 1944 penny that is silver in color, appears to be made of steel, is magnetic, and weighs around 2.7 grams, it’s worth having it certified by a third-party coin authentication service to see if it’s a genuine 1944 penny!
How can I sell my old coins for cash?
There are a variety of selling options available, some of which are more convenient depending on the rarity of the coins.
- Online auction or marketplace.
- Major auction.
- More options.
- Find a reputable numismatic shop and try to avoid stores that only buy gold and silver, especially if your coins are worth more than melt value.
How much is a 1969 d penny worth?
In average condition, 1969 D pennies are worth around 1 cent, but in certified mint state condition (MS ), they can be worth up to $12.
How much does it cost to get coins appraised?
Many online appraisals are available for free, especially from auction houses looking to list your coins; however, these free appraisals are only for valuation and selling purposes. Formal written appraisals can cost anywhere from $75 to $150 per hour, depending on the coins, appraisal details, and purpose.