1939 (S) Lincoln Wheat Cent
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Auction Record
- Price realized
- $331
- Sold
- Grade
- MS67+BN
- Auction house
- eBay
Description
A cent from the San Francisco Mint, the 1939 (S) Lincoln Wheat Cent belongs to the Lincoln Wheat Cents 1909-1958 series. The San Francisco Mint struck 52,070,000 cents dated 1939. 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. Struck during the Great Depression, when mintages dropped sharply and the United States abandoned the gold standard in 1933. The San Francisco Mint, a Gold Rush-era institution, now specializes in proof and collector coinage. Estimated market value ranges from $0.18 to $5 depending on grade and condition. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19.05 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #2681.
External References
Error Varieties(9)
1939-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-001
1939-S Doubled Die Obverse WDDO-002
1939-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-001
1939-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-002
1939-S Repunched Mintmark WRPM-002
1939-S Repunched Mintmark WRPM-003
1939-S Repunched Mintmark WRPM-004
1939-S Repunched Mintmark WRPM-005
1939-S Repunched Mintmark WRPM-006
Other Strike Types in This Series
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