The value of a 1945 U.S. 1 cent coin, also known as a Lincoln Wheat Cent or Wheat Penny, depends on several key factors:
- Condition: This is the most significant factor affecting a coin’s value.
– Circulated: Coins that have been used and show wear are worth less. A circulated 1945 Wheat Penny in average condition can be valued at around 15 cents.
– Uncirculated (Mint State): Coins with little to no wear, sharp details, and original luster are more valuable to collectors. Prices for uncirculated coins can start around $1 to $5 and go significantly higher.
– High Grades (MS-60 to MS-70): Uncirculated coins in the highest grades (Mint State 65 and above) are especially desirable and can reach several hundred or even thousands of dollars, particularly if they exhibit full red coloration.
- Mint Mark: The mint where the coin was produced can impact its value.
– Philadelphia (no mint mark): These are the most common 1945 Wheat Pennies, and their value is generally lower compared to coins from other mints. In circulated condition, they might be worth around 3 to 10 cents. Uncirculated examples are worth more, with prices depending on the grade and redness.
– Denver (D mint mark): These are slightly less common than Philadelphia-minted coins and can sometimes be more valuable, especially in higher grades. They can range from 15 cents (circulated) to over $20 (uncirculated).
– San Francisco (S mint mark): These are generally considered the rarest of the 1945 Wheat Pennies and are often the most sought-after by collectors, [according to Bullion Shark] . They can command a premium, especially in high-grade condition, with uncirculated examples reaching values of $5 or more. One example of a high-grade 1945-S penny sold for $2,174.
- Errors and Varieties: Certain minting errors can increase a 1945 penny’s value significantly, [according to Bullion Shark].
– Doubled Die Errors: These occur when the coin’s design is struck twice, creating a doubled image.
– Off-Center Strikes: These coins have their design misplaced from the center.
– Clipped Planchets: These coins have a portion of the blank metal disc (planchet) missing.
– Weight Variations: A rare weight error can significantly impact a coin’s value, with a 3.2 gram coin being more valuable than the standard 3.11 grams.
| Mint Mark | Condition (Circulated) | Condition (Uncirculated) | Notes |
|—|—|—|—|
| None | A few cents | $1 – $5 | Philadelphia Mint; most common. Examples with red color in high grades can reach several hundred or even thousands of dollars. |
| D | 15 cents | $15 – $20 | Denver Mint; more valuable in higher grades. Red coloration in high grades can significantly increase the price. An example in MS67+ Red sold for $2,174. |
| S | Few cents | $5+ | San Francisco Mint; rarer, especially in high grades. An example in MS67+ sold for $517. The value often exceeds that of its Philadelphia and Denver counterparts, especially for higher grades or rare errors. |
- Assess the condition: Carefully examine the coin for wear, scratches, dents, and the presence of original luster.
- Check for a mint mark: Look for a small “D” or “S” below the date on the coin. No mint mark means it was minted in Philadelphia.
- Look for errors: Scrutinize the coin for any unusual features like doubled dies, off-center strikes, or other anomalies.
- Consult with an expert: For valuable coins or if you are unsure about its condition, it’s best to consult with a reputable coin dealer or a professional grading service, such as the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), to get an accurate evaluation and potentially sell your coin.
What is a 1945 penny without a dot?
I can help with that. Pennies issued for circulation in 1945 were all struck at the Perth mint and have a tiny dot after the word PENNY. This is a Melbourne Mint product and therefore has no dot. This denomination was not struck at Melbourne for circulation.
What year is penny worth $50,000?
Good point! The 1959-D wheat penny is one of the most controversial mule coins ever. It’s worth $50,000! Here’s everything you could possibly want to know about the 1959-D penny error!