What is a Wheat penny made of? The wheat penny is one of the most iconic coins in U.S. history, recognizable for its distinct wheat stalk design on the reverse side. But what exactly is a wheat penny made of? If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: wheat pennies are made of 95% copper and 5% zinc and tin.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the metallurgical composition, manufacturing process, and origins of the wheat penny in detail. We’ll look at how the coin’s copper-dominated metal content gives it a distinctive glowing red appearance that collectors cherish.
Background and History of the Wheat Penny
When the Wheat Penny Was First Minted
The Wheat Penny was first minted in 1909 when the United States Mint began producing a new one-cent coin designed by famous sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. It replaced the Indian Head cent coin that had been in use since 1859.
The coin got its informal name from the image of two stalks of wheat featured prominently on the reverse side of the coin. This agricultural motif was chosen to signify prosperity.
The wheat ears design was selected through an open public competition organized by the U.S. Mint in 1908. The winner was Victor David Brenner, an immigrant from Lithuania known for his previous work designing medals and plaques.
His distinctive and visually striking Wheat Penny design was an instant hit with the American public when the new coins entered circulation on August 2, 1909. Over 1 billion Wheat Pennies were struck at the Philadelphia Mint that first year alone.
Why the Composition Changed in 1943
Wheat Pennies minted from 1909 to 1942 consisted of 95% copper and 5% zinc and tin. However, in 1943, the coin’s composition changed to zinc-coated steel due to copper shortages during World War II. The US Mint and Treasury Department were looking to conserve copper so it could be used for military needs including shell casings and telephone wire insulation.
The change proved very unpopular with the public as the new steel Wheat Pennies quickly began to rust and corrode. Their appearance was also negatively impacted. In 1944, the U.S. Mint was able to resume production of brass Wheat Pennies after copper shortages had eased.
They continued producing 95% copper Wheat Pennies through 1958. The last Wheat Penny was minted in 1958 and they were fully replaced by the modern Lincoln cent in 1959.
Metallurgical Composition and Manufacturing Process
95% Copper Core
Wheat pennies contain a copper core making up 95% of the coin’s weight. This copper provides the distinctive reddish-brown color associated with the wheat penny. The copper originally came from the rich veins of the Bingham Canyon Mine in Utah which was the main source of copper used by the U.S. Mint in the early 20th century.
Over 19 million tons of copper have been produced from the Bingham Canyon Mine throughout its history, enough to make over 300 billion wheat pennies!
Zinc and Tin Mix for Remaining 5%
The outer coating of wheat pennies contains zinc (4%) and tin (1%), giving a protective covering to the copper interior. Adding a hint of zinc helped the coins stay shiny and resist corrosion from handling. The tin provided further protection and hardness.
This zinc/tin combo created a brass alloy coating durable enough for extensive everyday use over decades of circulation.
So in total, 95% copper core, 4% zinc outer coating, and 1% tin outer coating.
Planchet Casting and Annealing Process
Producing billions of wheat cents required an efficient manufacturing process:
- It started by casting large copper planchets using automated presses
- These planchets were heated to 800°F to soften the copper (a process called “annealing”)
- The softened discs were then fed into machine presses weighed down by heavy hammers to imprint the coin design
- Imprinting hardened the copper again allowing for wear
- Finally, the pennies were coated in a zinc/tin alloy and shiny lacquer for protection
Quality checks ensured correct weight and printing along the way. This combination of automated machines and hand-finishing created well-formed wheat pennies suitable for commerce.
| Total Produced | Over 300 billion |
| Years Minted | 1909 to 1958 |
Identifying Authentic Wheat Pennies
Determining if a wheat penny is genuinely old or artificially aged can be tricky. However, there are a few telltale signs numismatists look for when authenticating these iconic Lincoln cents.
Distinctive Color and Wear
Genuine wheat pennies have a distinctive worn and weathered appearance from decades of circulation. The color tone tends to be more natural and muted in comparison to pennies artificially toned or treated to appear antique.
Areas of highest friction like the cheek, jaw, and wheat stalks show modest to moderate wear on authentic specimens, often appearing slightly smooth or flattened. The fields should exhibit very light porousness under magnification from decades of oxidation and exposure to elements.
Examining the Lincoln Memorial Relief for Signs of Artificial Aging
One area susceptible to enhancement is the reverse design relief, especially on better-preserved red wheat cents. Scrutinize recessed areas around Lincoln’s jacket and behind his head for signs of artificial spotting or added grime.
Edge wear should be consistent with the obverse design. Be wary of pennies displaying heavy peripheral wear but little definition loss on Lincoln’s face and wheat ears. Remember, there is a premium on uncirculated and nicely preserved wheat pennies, making them targets for alterations.
Grading Scale for Wheat Pennies
When collecting wheat pennies, it’s important to understand the grading scales used to assess the condition and value of the coins. Two main scales exist – the Sheldon scale for circulating coins and the 70-point scale for mint state coins.
Sheldon Scale Standards for Circulated Coins
The Sheldon scale, created by Dr. William Sheldon, is a 70-point scale used to grade circulating coins like wheat pennies. It ranges from Poor (P-1) to Mint State (MS-70). Key grading levels on the Sheldon scale include:
- Good (G-4): Heavy wear but fully detailed
- Very Good (VG-8): More worn but outlines of features visible
- Fine (F-12): Lightly worn with some details visible
- Very Fine (VF-20): Well-detailed with slight wear
- Extremely Fine (EF-40): Minor wear but nearly crisp detail
- About Uncirculated (AU-50): Light wear with luster
Coins graded EF-40 or higher generally carry significant premiums. For accurate assessments, wheat pennies can be sent to services like PCGS or NGC.
70-Point Scale Used for Mint State Coins
For wheat pennies that have never circulated, the 70-point mint state (MS) scale is used. It describes the luster, eye appeal, marks/hairlines, and surface quality of uncirculated coins. Key grades include:
| MS-60 | Minimal luster/bag marks visible |
| MS-63 | Above average luster and eye appeal |
| MS-65 | Attractive with few minor bag marks |
| MS-67 | Very appealing with minimal marks |
| MS-70 | Perfection. No discernible defects |
Top-graded uncirculated wheat cents can be quite valuable. For instance, an MS-65 red cent recently sold for over $6,000! Understanding the mint state scale helps collectors determine which specimens display the best quality striking and preservation.
Impact on Collectability and Value
Wheat pennies have become quite popular among coin collectors over the years. Their unique history and design make them a fascinating addition to any collection. But what exactly is it about wheat pennies that drives up their collectability and value?
Scarcity
One of the main factors is simply scarcity. The wheat penny was minted from 1909 to 1958, after which it was replaced by the Lincoln penny. With billions of Lincoln cents in circulation today, wheat cents are much harder to come by, especially in high grades.
This scarcity contributes greatly to their collectability.
Certain wheat penny dates and mints are considerably more scarce than others. For example, the 1909-S VDB is one of the most sought-after coins in America because only 484,000 were produced in San Francisco. This low mintage makes it extremely valuable to collectors.
Historical Significance
Wheat cents also have a unique history behind them that adds to their appeal. They showcase two iconic designs – the beautiful “wheat ears” reverse by Victor D. Brenner, and the profile of President Lincoln by Brenner on the obverse.
The coin is a representation of a critical period in American history as well. The wheat ears depict agriculture, which was vital to society, while Lincoln stands as a memorable president who led the nation through immense challenges.
Condition
A wheat penny’s grade and condition play a very large role in its value to collectors. Well-struck examples with minimal marks and wear are highly prized. Key aspects that are evaluated include:
- Luster – Does the coin retain its original mint luster and shine?
- Marks – Are there distracting bag marks, scratches, or other imperfections?
- Wear – How much wear is present on the highest points of the coin design?
Higher-graded coins command exceptional premiums. For example, an average circulated 1909-S VDB is worth around $1,000. However, in pristine Mint State red condition, its value balloons to over $80,000!
Certification
Lastly, professional grading and certification play a key role as well. Companies like PCGS and NGC provide their expert assessment of a coin’s condition and encapsulate the coins to preserve their quality. Certified coins trade for substantially more.
Having a coin certified by the top services adds authenticity and builds value with collectors looking to buy premium-certified examples of wheat cents.
What Is A Wheat Penny Made Of – Conclusion
In closing, a wheat penny’s distinct 95% copper composition provides an intriguing look back at the U.S. coins of yesteryear. While later pennies would switch to cheaper metals, wheat pennies stand out for their unique glowing copper patina that developed over decades of circulation.
Understanding exactly what gives wheat pennies their enduring warmth and appeal allows collectors to better appraise and authenticate the wheat cents they acquire.
