1911 Wheat Penny Value: Why Some Coins Sell for $1,000+

Is a 1911 penny worth anything? And do you know of a single example of a 1911 one penny that could be worth more than $1,000? In fact, the value of 1911 penny is far more than you might realize - especially if it is a rare variety or a well-preserved specimen. Some pieces go for hundreds or even thousands of dollars at auction, depending on the mint, condition and errors.

Figuring out how much is a 1911 Wheat penny worth and what to look for to check value of coins is not as difficult as it seems - you just need to know some nuances. So today we are here to talk about why you should check old coins, what rare and worthy 1911 Wheat penny error examples exist and learn 1911 Wheat penny value today.

A Quick Look: Year, Mints and Cent Features

Year and Mints

The year 1911 was the third year of the famous series of Wheaties. These coins were minted at three U.S. mints: Philadelphia (101,177,787 pieces), Denver (12,672,000 pieces) and San Francisco (4,026,000 pieces). And collectors' interest, as well as the value of 1911 Wheat penny depending on the mint differentiated.

Here's a quick overview of the differences:

• The 1911 no mint mark penny (Philadelphia) is the most mass-produced and usually the most affordable. However, in perfect condition, even a 1911 penny value no mint mark penny can be a pleasant surprise. In MS65+ condition, the price reaches $200-$400, and specimens with a particularly rich patina or red tint are valued even higher.

• 1911 cent with D mint mark - produced in a much smaller mintage, so 1911 D penny value is higher than that of their Philadelphia counterparts. Particularly sought after are coins with full red luster (Red), which in MS65 condition are worth $500 and up. If you are wondering how much is a penny from 1911 worth, this particular variety may be of interest to you.

• The 1911-S penny (San Francisco) is the rarest of the three, especially in excellent preservation. That is why this 1911 S penny worth can easily exceed $1000 in AU55-MS62, and in MS65 Red condition such coins are worth several thousand dollars.

Incidentally, it is worth noting that the year is not considered key to the series. However, among the separate minting options are very rare 1911 Wheat penny examples - especially if the coin is preserved in excellent condition (AU or higher).

Common Characteristics of 1911 Coins

These parameters are the same for all varieties of penny 1911, but 1911 Lincoln penny value also directly depends on other factors.

Other Factors Affecting the Value of a Coin

The value of a 1911 coin depends on more than just the mint. Below are the main factors that can significantly change the value of a 1911 Wheat penny:

1. Condition (grade): The higher the grade on the Sheldon scale, the higher the price. The difference between VF and MS can be dozens of times.

2. Color: Red coins are worth more than Brown coins. The hue and patina of the coin will ultimately have a big impact on the final 1911 penny coin value.

3. Rare varieties and errors: While not many 1911 penny error coins are known, there are still interesting variants with double struck, offset, and faint minting.

4. Provenance and certification: Coins that are CAC, NGC or PCGS graded are worth more, especially if they are at the top of the register.

5. Market and demand: During certain periods the demand for these coins may increase - especially at auctions or during the publication of collections of famous numismatists.

Thus, when answering the question: what is a 1911 Wheat penny worth, it is worth considering not only the year itself, but also the mint, condition, visual characteristics and confirmed rarity.

And yes - check the value of any interesting, but even the most unusual coin with the Coin ID Scanner app (especially if you've had it for a long time). Just a couple of clicks, and you will learn the history and features of the coin, and even its market value. And maybe you will be the lucky owner of a valuable piece.

How Much Is a 1911 Penny Worth?

The Most Expensive Specimens

As you know, the value of a 1911 Wheat penny can range from a few cents to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on several factors. Below are some of the most expensive variants that were sold at auctions for impressive sums. If you are wondering 1911 penny how much is it worth, this list will give you an example of the most exceptional pieces.

1. 1911 D MS 67 RD Lincoln Wheat Penny

• Mint: Denver (D)

• Condition: MS 67 (RD - Red, a red shade of copper)

• Sold for $66,000 in 2022

This coin is the undisputed record holder among 1911 D Wheat penny value. It stands out for its exceptionally high grade and rich red color, indicating minimal time exposure. Red hues in copper coins are rare in such perfect condition, especially among “D” marked pennies.

2. 1911 S MS 66 RD Lincoln Wheat Penny

• Mint: San Francisco (S)

• Condition: MS 66 (RD - red hue)

• Sold for $27,600 in 2007

One of the finest known specimens issued in San Francisco. The 1911 S Wheat penny value increases manifold in this condition due to both the limited mintage and high preservation.

3. 1911 MS 67 RD Lincoln Wheat Penny (No Mint Mark)

• Mint: Philadelphia (unmarked)

• Condition: MS 67 (RD- red hue)

• Sold for $21,850 in 2007

This coin proves that even a 1911 no mint mark penny can have exceptional value when perfectly preserved. It is specimens like this that form the top bar for 1911 Wheat penny no mint mark value. Its red surface luster and high grade make it a true jewel of the collection.

4. 1911 PR 66 RD Proof Lincoln Wheat Penny

• Mint: Philadelphia (Proof minting)

• Condition: PR 66 (RD - red hue)

• Sold for $14,950 in 2005

Proof coins were originally intended for collectors and had a limited mintage. This proof 1911 penny no mint mark value is extremely high, as the specimen is one of the best among the surviving ones, especially with the bright red finish.

5. 1911 PR 66 RB Proof Lincoln Wheat Penny

• Mint: Philadelphia (Proof minting)

• Condition: PR 66 (RB - Red Brown)

• Sold for $14,688 in 2014

The coin features a rich red-brown hue that makes it particularly attractive. Although the hue is less intense than RD, it is still among the top sellers.

Valuable Erroneous Pennies of 1911

Minting errors can also significantly affect the value of a coin. Below are some of the interesting specimens with value based on rare defects and varieties of the stamp.

1. 1911 S/S MS 65 BN RPM Lincoln Wheat Penny

• Mint: San Francisco

• Condition: MS 65 (BN - Brown)

• Error Type: RPM - repunched mint mark

• Sold for $1,750 in 2022

RPM errors are prized among numismatists. In this case, it is the rarity of the re-struck “S” that makes the coin unique and the 1911 S penny value is high in the eyes of collectors.

2. 1911-D/D RPM MS64BN

• Mint: Denver 

• Condition: MS 64 (BN - Brown)

• Error Type: RPM (repunched “D” mark)

• Sold for $910 in 2022

Even though the condition is average, the coin gained additional value due to a distinct marking error. A good example where even a coin not in excellent grade can be more valuable than the usual options.

3. 1911-D Lincoln Wheat Penny with Lamination Error

• Mint: Denver

• Error Type: Lamination Error

• Condition: AU (About Uncirculated)

• For Sale: $56.95 on eBay

While a coin like this doesn't reach the $1,000 mark, it's still of interest - especially to novice numismatists. A lamination error is the flaking off of a layer of metal, and such specimens can be a starting point in a fascinating hobby.

Prices are current at the time of sale. Actual value may vary - check data on reliable auctions, websites and apps.

FAQs

1. What is a 1911 penny worth today?

The exact 1911 Wheat penny value no mint mark or any other coin, depends on the condition of the piece and its origin. To quickly and accurately determine the details and value of your coin, we recommend using the Coin ID Scanner app.

2. Are 1911-S Lincoln penny coins copy 95% coper common?

These are mostly modern replicas, often made of about 95% copper. They do not have the same value as the original pieces, but may be of interest to collectors for study or display.

3. What tools do I need to grade a coin?

A magnifying glass and scales are useful for accurate valuation, as well as digital aids like modern apps, which makes it easy to determine the year and condition of the coin.

Small Coin - Big Opportunities

Even an ordinary cent can hide great value - the key is to know where and how to look. With a little care and simple numismatic tools, you can quickly figure out the condition and rarity of a coin. Sometimes it is in the little things and literally in the little coins that the real surprise lies.

Related Coin Value Guides:

• 2001 Lincoln Penny Coin Value
• 1856 Flying Eagle Cent Coin Value
• 1909-S VDB Wheat Penny Coin Value
• 1943-D Bronze Cent Coin Value
• 1955 Double Die Penny Coin Value
• 1925 Canada Cent Coin Value