1945 Wheat Penny: How Much Is It Worth?

If you are an experienced coin collector, you have likely heard about the 1945 Wheat penny. If you have not, we will help you today, as we are going to provide all the answers you need. What are the 1945 S Wheat penny error examples? Or how much is a Wheat penny from 1945 worth?

We will give you its numismatic details, historical description, and, most importantly, how to identify the coins you have.

Why 1945 Wheat Pennies Matter

The year 1945 was the conclusion of World War II, a conflict that reshaped the global order. The United States was a dominant force on the world stage, with its economy booming and its citizens adjusting to post-war life. This was the backdrop against which the 1945 Wheat Penny was minted just after the 1944 Wheat penny.

Copper and Ammunition

During World War II, copper was not a main material for coinage. It was diverted to the war effort. In 1943, pennies were made of steel coated with zinc to conserve copper. However, the steel pennies were unpopular because they rusted easily and were often confused with dimes. By 1945, the Mint returned to the pre-war copper alloy (95% copper, 5% zinc/tin) for pennies.

A rumor surrounds the 1945 Wheat Penny: some of the copper used in its production may have come from recycled ammunition shell casings. While this claim has never been definitively proven, the idea influences these coins, as this symbolizes a transition from war to peace.

The Design

The Wheat Penny, first minted in 1909, was created to commemorate the 100th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln. Designed by sculptor Victor D. Brenner, it was the first U.S. coin with a president's portrait.

The obverse (front) of the 1945 Wheat Penny features a right-facing profile of Abraham Lincoln, accompanied by the phrases "IN GOD WE TRUST" above his head, "LIBERTY" to his left, and the minting year to his right. Coins struck in Denver and San Francisco display their respective mint marks (“D” or “S”) below the date, while Philadelphia-minted coins lack a mint mark.

The reverse design includes two wheat ears framing the words "ONE CENT" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA." Below these inscriptions is the Latin motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM," which means "Out of Many, One." The wheat ears were intended to symbolize agricultural prosperity, a foundation of American strength during the war.

Production and Minting

In 1945, three mints struck the Wheat Penny:

1. Philadelphia (No Mint Mark): Over 1 billion coins minted.

2. Denver ("D" Mint Mark): Approximately 266 million coins minted, less common than Philadelphia's output.

3. San Francisco ("S" Mint Mark): About 181.7 million coins minted, the lowest mintage of the three.

Breaking Down the 1945 Wheat Penny Prices

1. 1945 Wheat Penny No Mint Mark Value

Minted in Philadelphia, the 1945 Wheat penny no mint mark is the most common, with over 1 billion coins produced. While their abundance limits their basic value, pristine examples or those with errors can be rather expensive.

• Circulated Grades: $0.06–$0.23

• Uncirculated (MS 60–63): $1.00–$2.50

• Red Pennies (MS 65+): $260–$6,000

• Errors (e.g., doubled dies): $100–$500

So, how much is a 1945 Wheat penny worth with no mint mark? Anywhere from $0.25 to $6,000, but it depends on its condition and rarity.

2. 1945 D Wheat Penny Value Today

The 1945 Wheat penny D mint mark is slightly less common than its Philadelphia counterpart. But this makes high-grade examples particularly desirable.

• Circulated Grades: $0.06–$0.23

• Red Coins (MS 67): $115–$15,000

• Errors (e.g., clipped planchets): $200+

Key Insight: The value of 1945 D Wheat penny climbs significantly for error coins and high-grade red examples.

3. 1945 S Wheat Penny Value

San Francisco minted the fewest pennies in 1945, producing just 181.7 million coins. The value often exceeds that of its Philadelphia and Denver counterparts, especially for higher grades or rare errors.

• Circulated Grades: $0.12–$0.23

• Red Coins (MS 67+): $2,174 (auction record in 2015)

• Errors (e.g., die cracks): $90–$500

The 1945 S Wheat penny worth is amplified by its scarcity and specific flaws, e.g., lamination errors or off-center strikes.

Related article: 1983 Penny Value Guide.

Error Coins, High Prices

Some 1945 Wheat pennies were struck with minting errors that elevate their value.

• 1945 S Wheat Penny Error: Includes lamination flaws and die cracks, often worth $90–$200.

• 1945 Wheat Penny No Mint Mark Error: Doubled dies or repunched mint marks can fetch $100–$500.

• 1945 D Wheat Penny Error: Look for clipped planchets or broad strikes; these can be worth $200 or more.

• Weight Variations: Rare coins weighing 3.2g instead of 3.11g are highly collectible and can command a premium.

1945 Wheat Penny Value Chart:

Disclaimer: Coin values fluctuate based on demand, condition, and market trends. Use tools like the Coin ID Scanner app for precise valuations.

FAQs

How much is the 1945 no mint mark Wheat penny value?

The value of a 1945 Wheat penny without a mint mark generally ranges from $0.25 to $55. Commonly circulated coins fall at the lower end of this spectrum, while those in better condition with minimal wear can be worth more. Notably, pristine examples that exhibit red toning or exceptional preservation can surpass $6,000.

What is the 1945 red Wheat penny value?

A 1945 Wheat penny displaying red toning is particularly valuable, especially in high grades. Coins with red patina and minimal imperfections can cost between $260 and $15,000. The total price depends on the condition and the intensity of the coloration. These red-toned pennies are rare and highly prized, significantly increasing their market value compared to standard specimens.

What makes the 1945 Wheat penny special?

The 1945 Wheat penny stands out due to its historical context and minting features. Minted during the final year of World War II, it reflects the era's economic and material conditions, e.g., the possible use of recycled copper. Additionally, some 1945 pennies exhibit rare characteristics such as red toning or minting errors, which increase their special status and appeal among numismatists.

Where can I get my coin evaluated?

Here are several methods and resources to get your coin evaluated:

1. Professional Coin Grading Services:

Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC): One of the leading third-party grading services, NGC offers grading, authentication, and encapsulation of coins. Submit your coin for grading through their submission process. Once graded, coins are returned in tamper-evident holders with detailed grading reports.

Website: www.ngccoin.com

Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS): Another premier grading service, PCGS provides accurate grading and certification for coins. Similar to NGC, PCGS offers submission services where coins are evaluated, graded, and encapsulated.

Website: www.pcgs.com

2. Local Coin Dealers and Shops:

Experienced coin dealers can provide on-the-spot evaluations and suggest potential selling or buying opportunities. Ensure the dealer is reputable by checking reviews, memberships in professional organizations (e.g., American Numismatic Association), and certifications.

Attending local or regional coin shows allows you to consult multiple experts and compare evaluations.

3. Online Tools and Apps:

Coin ID Scanner: This app uses smartphone cameras and databases to help identify, grade, and estimate the value of coins. You only need to take a photo of your coin, and the app will do the rest!

4. Educational Resources:

• "The Official Red Book" (A Guide Book of United States Coins) by R.S. Yeoman;

• Websites like PCGS and NGC 

5. Coin Auctions:

Reputable auction houses like Heritage Auctions or Stack’s Bowers offer appraisal services and can provide estimates based on current market trends. Even if not selling, attending auctions can help you with coin values and market demand.

Sources:

1. https://www.coleccionistasdemonedas.com/1945-wheat-penny/ 

2. https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-grading/grading-scale/ 

3. https://www.pcgs.com/prices/detail/lincoln-cent-wheat-reverse-1909-1958/