1952 Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent
Strike Type
Coin Details
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — estimates reflect typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
Auction Record
$1,900 PR68 06-03-2021 eBay
Description
The 1952 Proof Lincoln Wheat Cent is a proof cent struck at the Philadelphia Mint, part of the Lincoln Wheat Cents 1909-1958 series. With a mintage of 81,980, this is an extremely rare issue — the lowest mintage among 4 mint variants, representing only less than 1% of total production. 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. Minted during the post-war economic boom, the final era of silver circulating coinage in the United States before the Coinage Act of 1965. As a proof issue, this coin was struck multiple times on specially prepared polished planchets using polished dies, producing mirror-like fields and frosted design elements prized by collectors. Struck at the original U.S. Mint facility, in continuous operation since 1792. Estimated market value is approximately $61. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Cataloged as PCGS #684160.
External References
Error Varieties(16)

LDB234-1952-001A Die Break

LDB234-1952-001B Die Break

LDB234-1952-001F Die Break

LDB345-1952-001 Die Break

LDB23456-1952-001 Die Break

PC-1c-1952-03R Cud

RIDB-1c-1952-01 Cud

RIDB-1c-1952-02 Cud

RIDB-1c-1952-03 Cud

SKH-1c-1952-01 Spike Head

SKH-1c-1952-02 Spike Head

SKH-1c-1952-03 Spike Head

SKH-1c-1952-04 Spike Head

SKH-1c-1952-05 Spike Head

SKH-1c-1952-06 Spike Head
