1916 Lincoln Wheat Cent

About This Coin

The 1916 Lincoln Wheat Cent is a United States cent from the Lincoln Wheat Cents 1909-1958 series — an early issue, 8th of 50 years in the series. In 1916, coins were struck at the San Francisco, Philadelphia, and Denver Mints with a combined mintage of 190.3 million. This ranks 19th 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 cataloged 8 known die varieties for this date across 4 categories, including cud, doubled die reverse, repunched mint mark and 1 other types. Produced 6 years before the celebrated 1922 key date. Across its variants, estimated values range from $1 to $3.4K depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $8.0K in PR67BN grade at eBay. Designed by Victor David Brenner.