1912 Lincoln Wheat Cent
Base
About This Coin
The 1912 Lincoln Wheat Cent is a United States cent from the Lincoln Wheat Cents 1909-1958 series — an early issue, 4th of 50 years in the series. In 1912, coins were struck at the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mints with a combined mintage of 83.0 million. This ranks 8th of 50 years by total mintage, below the series median of 377.2 million. The obverse features Abraham Lincoln facing right, the first real person depicted on a U.S. circulating coin and the reverse displays two wheat stalks framing ONE CENT, symbolizing American agriculture. Produced during the Progressive Era, when President Theodore Roosevelt championed a renaissance in American coin design that produced some of the most beautiful coins ever struck. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Collectors have identified 4 known die varieties for this date, including repunched mint mark, spiked head. Produced 10 years before the celebrated 1922 key date. Across its variants, estimated values range from $2 to $825 depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $9.5K in PR67BN grade at eBay. Designed by Victor David Brenner.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — range across all strike types, reflecting typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
