A 1935 Lincoln (Wheat) penny may seem like just a small coin, but it can be worth more than you think. Depending on its condition, mintmark, and errors, this coin could be worth anywhere from just a few cents to thousands of dollars. In this guide, we’ll explore the factors that influence its value and provide insight into how to determine its worth.
Key Insights:
- The value of a 1935 Lincoln Wheat penny can range from $0.10 to $90, but rare coins could fetch as much as $50,000.
- The condition, mintmark, and errors are key factors that affect its value.
- The 1935 pennies were minted at Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco.
- Special error coins can fetch anywhere between $8 and $80 or more, depending on rarity.
History Behind the 1935 Penny
The 1935 Wheat penny is part of the series designed by Victor David Brenner. The original task was given to Augustus Saint-Gaudens, who passed before completing the designs. Brenner took over and created the Lincoln penny to commemorate President Abraham Lincoln’s centennial birthday.
The reverse side of the coin features two stalks of wheat, symbolizing abundance, which is how it earned the name “wheat penny.” These coins were minted from 1909 to 1958 before the reverse design was changed.
Features of the 1935 Penny
Understanding the features of the 1935 Wheat penny is essential for identification and evaluation:
Obverse:
- A right-facing profile of Abraham Lincoln, wearing a bowtie and suit.
- Inscribed with “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and the year “1935.”
Reverse:
- Depicts two stalks of wheat on either side.
- The phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM” is inscribed, along with “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
Other Specifications:
- Diameter: 19 mm
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
- Edge: Plain (smooth)
1935 Penny Value by Condition
The condition of your 1935 Lincoln penny is a crucial determinant of its value. The penny is graded based on its overall wear and tear, and values fluctuate depending on the grade. The coin is typically graded on a scale from “Good” to “Uncirculated.”
Here’s a breakdown of the 1935 penny value by condition:
| Date | Good Condition | Fine | Extremely Fine | Uncirculated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1935 | $0.06 | $0.11 | $0.20 | $4 |
| 1935-D | $0.08 | $0.15 | $0.43 | $6 |
| 1935-S | $0.08 | $0.24 | $0.45 | $8 |
Mintmarks and Rarity
Mintmarks are another essential factor when evaluating the value of your penny. The 1935 Lincoln penny was minted at three facilities: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco.
- 1935 (No Mintmark) – Philadelphia Mint: With over 245 million coins struck, these are the most common, but high-grade specimens can still be valuable. A coin in mint condition can be worth up to $8,000 or more.
- 1935-D (Denver Mint) – 47 million coins were minted here, and while these coins are also fairly common, higher-grade uncirculated versions can command high prices, with some reaching up to $13,000.
- 1935-S (San Francisco Mint) – With a mintage of 38.7 million, these coins are the rarest of the three. Coins in mint condition can be worth up to $7,500 or more.
Rare Errors and Varieties
While most pennies are worth their weight in copper, some 1935 Wheat pennies come with manufacturing errors that can significantly increase their value. Here are the top three error types to look for:
- Double Die Obverse (DDO)
This error results in a coin with double imprints of the design. It is most noticeable around Lincoln’s beard, the date, and the motto. A DDO penny could be worth up to $80 or more depending on the condition and mintmark. - Off-center Strikes
An off-center strike occurs when the planchet (coin blank) and die are misaligned, resulting in a design that’s partially cut off. These coins can fetch up to $50 or more, depending on how severe the misalignment is. - Repunched Mint Marks (RPM)
Mintmarks on older coins were punched by hand, which sometimes resulted in misalignment. The repunched mint mark is a popular error, with coins ranging in value from $3 to $10 or more.
Determining the Authenticity of a 1935 Penny
When verifying the authenticity of your 1935 Lincoln penny, it’s important to be familiar with the grading scale and the coin’s features. Renowned grading services like Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) and Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) use the following scale:
| Grade | Condition |
|---|---|
| 1 | Basal State |
| 2-6 | Fair to Good |
| 7-10 | Very Good |
| 12-15 | Fine |
| 20-30 | Very Fine |
| 40 | Extremely Fine |
| 50 | About Uncirculated |
| 60-70 | Mint State / Uncirculated |
Bottom Line
If you have a 1935 Lincoln penny, it’s worth examining its condition, mintmark, and potential errors closely, as these factors significantly impact its value. Whether you find one of these pennies in your attic or come across it at a coin shop, the information in this guide will help you make an informed decision about its worth.
You can sell or appraise your coin through local buyers or online auctions, but it’s a good idea to have it graded for an accurate evaluation.
FAQs
How much is a 1935 Lincoln penny worth?
The value of a 1935 Lincoln penny ranges from a few cents to several thousand dollars depending on its condition and rarity.
What makes a 1935 penny rare?
The rarity of a 1935 penny depends on its mintmark, condition, and any errors like double dies or off-center strikes.
How do I know if my 1935 penny is valuable?
You can determine its value by checking its condition, mintmark, and looking for rare errors or varieties like double dies or off-center strikes.
Can I sell my 1935 penny for a high price?
Yes, if your 1935 penny is in excellent condition, has a rare mintmark, or contains an error, it could fetch a high price at auction or through private buyers.