The value of a 1920 Lincoln cent, also known as a Wheat Penny, depends on several factors:
- Condition (Grade): Coins in better condition are more valuable. Grades range from “good” (heavily circulated with wear) to “uncirculated” (no wear and original luster). Within uncirculated grades, coins retaining more of their original copper luster (red, or RD) are most sought after, followed by red-brown (RB) and brown (BN) coins.
- Mint Mark:
– No mint mark (Philadelphia): These are the most common and typically worth the least. Prices range from a few cents in worn condition to potentially over $100 for top-grade uncirculated examples.
– “D” (Denver): These are scarcer than the Philadelphia mintages. Values typically range from around $1 in worn condition to hundreds or even thousands for uncirculated coins, depending on the grade and luster.
– “S” (San Francisco): These are the rarest of the three. Values can range from around $2 to $25 in circulated condition, and over $200 for uncirculated examples. Prices can soar to upwards of $21,500 for high-grade examples with full red color.
In general, a 1920 Lincoln Wheat Penny could be worth anywhere from 20 cents for a heavily circulated Philadelphia mint coin to upwards of $21,500 or more for a perfectly preserved, full red San Francisco mint example.
Here’s a breakdown of average value ranges based on mint mark and condition:
- 1920 (Philadelphia – no mint mark):
– Worn: A few cents to $1
– Good: $2-5
– Uncirculated: $10-50+
- 1920-D (Denver):
– Worn: $1-3
– Good: $5-15
– Uncirculated: $20-100+
- 1920-S (San Francisco):
– Worn: $3-8
– Good: $10-30
– Uncirculated: $50-200+
To determine the exact value of your 1920 penny, it’s best to consult a professional coin appraiser or a detailed coin price guide like the Greysheet. You can also find resources online with more detailed grading information and price charts.
Why is a 1920 penny rare?
The San Francisco Mint produced the fewest pennies in 1920, making this the most interesting option for collectors in terms of rarity. However, as with other coins, rarity is only one of the factors determining value.
How do I tell if my 1920 penny is worth anything?
In the circulated condition, a 1920 no-mint mark wheat penny minted in Philadelphia is worth around $. 10 to $1. In uncirculated condition, this valuable coin is worth $50 or more. Higher grades can be worth upwards of $10,000.