Introduction & Identification
The 1910 Lincoln Wheat Penny represents the second year of production for Victor David Brenner’s iconic design that would continue until 1958. Struck at both the Philadelphia (no mint mark) and San Francisco (S mint mark) facilities, these one-cent pieces hold significant historical and numismatic importance as early examples of America’s longest-running cent design. The obverse features Abraham Lincoln’s right-facing portrait, while the reverse displays the distinctive “wheat ears” motif framing the denomination.
Current Market Value Range (April 2025, PCGS Price Guide)
1910 (No Mint Mark)
| Grade | Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good-4 (G-4) | $3 |
| Very Good-8 (VG-8) | $4 |
| Fine-12 (F-12) | $4 |
| Very Fine-20 (VF-20) | $4 |
| Extremely Fine-40 (EF-40) | $4 |
| About Uncirculated-50 (AU-50) | $32 |
| Mint State-63 BN (MS-63 BN) | $55 |
| Mint State-65 RD (MS-65 RD) | $90 |
| Mint State-67 RD (MS-67 RD) | $160 |
1910-S (San Francisco Mint)
| Grade | Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good-4 (G-4) | $17 |
| Very Good-8 (VG-8) | $24 |
| Fine-12 (F-12) | $50 |
| Very Fine-20 (VF-20) | $50 |
| Extremely Fine-40 (EF-40) | $115 |
| About Uncirculated-50 (AU-50) | $115 |
| Mint State-63 BN (MS-63 BN) | $165 |
| Mint State-65 RD (MS-65 RD) | $185 |
| Mint State-67 RD (MS-67 RD) | $425 |
Exact Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Weight | 3.11 grams (±0.13g tolerance) |
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Composition | 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc |
| Edge Type | Plain (smooth) |
| Thickness | 1.55 mm |
| Designer | Victor David Brenner |
Production Method: Struck on high-speed toggle press machines at the Philadelphia and San Francisco Mints. Dies were prepared at Philadelphia and shipped to branch mints as needed. The Philadelphia issues were struck at approximately 120 coins per minute using steam-powered equipment, while San Francisco utilized slightly older press technology achieving approximately 105 strikes per minute.
Obverse (Front) – 1910 Lincoln Wheat Cent
Features a right-facing portrait of Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor David Brenner. The inscriptions include “IN GOD WE TRUST” along the top edge, “LIBERTY” to the left of Lincoln, and the date “1910” to the right. Coins minted in San Francisco bear an “S” mintmark below the date, while those from Philadelphia have no mintmark.
Reverse (Back) – 1910 Lincoln Wheat Cent
Displays two wheat stalks flanking the denomination “ONE CENT” and the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” The motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” arches along the top edge.
Mintage & Historical Context
| Mint Facility | 1910 Mintage | % of Total Production |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia (No Mint Mark) | 146,801,218 | 96.03 % |
| San Francisco (S) | 6,045,000 | 3.96 % |
| Denver (D) | — | 0 % |
| West Point (W) | — | 0 % |
| Total Production | 152,846,218 | 100 % |
The 1910 penny mintage represents a significant increase over inaugural 1909 production, when controversy over designer Victor D. Brenner’s prominent “VDB” initials temporarily halted production. By 1910, the mint had settled into full-scale production with Brenner’s initials entirely removed (they would return in miniature form under Lincoln’s shoulder in 1918).
The economic recovery following the Panic of 1907 demanded increased circulation coinage, explaining the robust Philadelphia mintage. San Francisco’s more modest output reflects both the smaller regional population and the facility’s divided focus on producing gold and silver coinage for West Coast commerce and Pacific trade.
Also Check: 1911 Wheat Penny Value Guide: Rarity, Worth & Key Dates
1910-S Lincoln Wheat Penny – Key Errors & Varieties
With just over six million struck in San Francisco, the 1910-S Wheat Penny is already semi-scarce—and its low production makes mint errors especially prized by specialists.
1. Struck-Through “Wire” Error
Fine metal fibers or grease on the die can snag during striking, leaving thin raised wires or missing detail in Lincoln’s hair or the wheat stalks. Mid-grade examples trade for $5–$15, while superior specimens reach $50 or more.
2. Off-Center Strikes
Even a small 5 percent misalignment dramatically alters the design, and 1910-S cents with 5–10 percent off-centers sell for $40–$80. Larger offsets push values into the $100–$200 range, according to NGC’s price guide for this date.
3. Obverse Lamination Errors
Minor flaking or surface peeling on the obverse—often around “LIBERTY” or the date—appears on 1910 cents due to planchet flaws. These lamination varieties typically command $30–$90 depending on visibility and eye appeal.
4. Die Cracks & Clashes
Small die cracks form raised hairlines radiating from the hub, while clashes transfer inverted design elements from one die onto the blank. Modest cracks bring $5–$15, whereas bold die-clash patterns can reach $50–$100.
5. Subtle Repunched Mint Marks
A few 1910-S examples reveal slight doubling of the “S.” Although less dramatic than later RPMs, these subtle mint-mark anomalies sell for $75–$125 when clearly defined.
Authentication Tip: Genuine 1910 pennies should show appropriate die flow lines radiating from device edges under magnification. The S mint mark on authentic 1910-S cents has a slightly flattened top curve and measures approximately 1.3mm in height. Most counterfeits display incorrect S punch styles taken from later dates.
Grading Standards
Good-4 (G-4)
- Lincoln’s profile outline remains complete but extremely worn
- Hair detail reduced to basic outline
- Date and LIBERTY legible but heavily worn
- Wheat ears visible as outlines only on reverse
Very Fine-20 (VF-20)
- Approximately 50% of Lincoln’s hair detail remains
- Ear is visible with moderate inner detail
- Date and LIBERTY bold with minimal wear
- Wheat ears show some inner line definition
Extremely Fine-40 (EF-40)
- Approximately 75% of Lincoln’s hair details visible
- Ear complete with near-full inner detailing
- Minimal wear on highest points (cheekbone, jaw)
- Wheat stalks show clear interior lines
Mint State-63 (MS-63)
- Full mint luster present with no circulation wear
- Moderate amount of bag marks or contact marks
- Strike may be average to above average
- Original color spectrum: RD (full red), RB (red-brown), BN (brown)
Mint State-65 (MS-65)
- Strong luster with minimal distracting marks
- Strike typically above average for the issue
- Well-defined central details and peripheral features
- In Red (RD) specimens, 95%+ original mint color remains
Mint State-67+ (MS-67+)
- Exceptional strike with full detail
- Nearly pristine surfaces with only microscopic imperfections
- Complete, unbroken luster
- For RD designation, 100% original mint color
Market Analysis
Current Values by Grade (May 2025)
| Grade | 1910 (P) PCGS Bid | 1910 (P) Recent Auction | 1910-S PCGS Bid | 1910-S Recent Auction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $0.50 | $0.55-0.70 | $13.50 | $14-16 |
| VG-8 | $1.00 | $0.90-1.25 | $16.50 | $17-20 |
| F-12 | $2.00 | $1.90-2.25 | $22.50 | $24-28 |
| VF-20 | $3.25 | $3.00-3.75 | $35.00 | $33-42 |
| EF-40 | $8.00 | $7.50-10.00 | $65.00 | $60-78 |
| AU-50 | $15.00 | $14-19 | $125.00 | $118-140 |
| MS-63 RB | $35.00 | $32-40 | $350.00 | $330-375 |
| MS-65 RD | $150.00 | $145-170 | $1,100.00 | $950-1,250 |
| MS-67 RD | $1,200.00 | $1,100-1,350 | $9,500.00 | $8,750-12,000 |
Recent Blockbuster Sale: A superb 1910-S graded PCGS MS-67+ RD with CAC approval sold for $14,100 at Heritage Auctions FUN Sale. This represents the highest price paid for a 1910-S cent in the past five years and approached the all-time record of $16,450 set in 2019. The coin featured exceptional strike quality and 100% original mint red color with no carbon spotting.
Market Trend Analysis: Over the past decade, high-grade red specimens have consistently outperformed brown and red-brown examples in terms of appreciation. While common-date Lincoln cents in circulated grades have remained relatively stable, gem-quality examples (MS-65 and above) with full red designation continue to appreciate at approximately 5-7% annually. The 1910-S in particular has seen strong demand from registry set collectors seeking original mint-red specimens.
Counterfeit & Preservation Watch
Known Counterfeit Indicators
- Cast Counterfeits
- Look for granular surface texture under 10x magnification
- Seam lines often visible along edge
- Weight typically 0.2-0.5g lighter than genuine specimens
- Dulled design features lacking sharp relief
- Altered Date Specimens
- Most commonly altered from 1916/1918 to appear as 1910
- Examine date area for tooling marks under angled light
- Incorrect font thickness on altered digits
- Added Mint Mark Counterfeits
- Genuine S mintmark has specific shape with slightly flattened upper curve
- Counterfeit S often from incorrect period (1930s-40s style applied to 1910)
- Examine area around mintmark for tooling marks or disrupted surface
Natural vs. Artificial Toning Guide
Natural toning on 1910 Lincoln cents typically progresses from full red to a reddish-brown, eventually reaching chocolate brown over decades. Artificial toning often displays:
- Unnatural color progression – Genuine toning follows predictable color sequence
- Spotty or blotchy appearance – Natural toning tends to be more even
- Unusual colors – Purple, blue or green tints often indicate chemical acceleration
Preservation Recommendations
For the 95% copper composition of 1910 cents:
- Optimal Storage: Inert holders (Mylar, non-PVC plastic, or original mint cellophane)
- Avoid: PVC flips, rubber bands, paper envelopes with high sulfur content
- Environmental Control: Maintain 35-45% relative humidity; avoid temperature fluctuations
- Handling Precautions: Cotton gloves or hold by edges only; natural skin oils accelerate toning
Preservation Warning: Many 1910 cents were improperly cleaned during the 1950s-70s collecting boom. Harsh cleaning has permanently damaged countless examples, particularly with abrasive substances that removed the original mint surface. Even high-grade examples may show evidence of light cleaning under proper magnification.
Collector’s Corner: Roll-Hunting & Acquisition
Roll-Hunting Tips
While 1910 cents rarely appear in modern circulation, targeted roll hunting can occasionally yield results:
- Focus on older-style wrapped rolls from established coin shops
- Bank-wrapped rolls from rural banking institutions occasionally contain Wheat cents
- Estate sales in areas with established populations since the early 1900s may yield original rolls
- The distinctive wheat reverse is easily spotted when examining roll ends
Success Rate Expectation: Examining 100 contemporary penny rolls might yield 5-10 Wheat cents, of which perhaps 1 in 500 would date before 1920. The 1910-S is exceptionally unlikely in roll finds, with odds exceeding 1:10,000 rolls.
1909 Wheat Penny Value: Complete Worth Guide & Rare Varieties
Acquisition Strategies
Recommended Dealer Approaches:
- For circulated examples: regional coin shows offer best value-to-price ratio
- For Mint State specimens: established PCGS/NGC dealers with return privileges
- For variety hunters: specialized Lincoln cent dealers like CopperCoins, Longacre’s Ledger advertisers
Online Platforms (ranked by collector satisfaction, PCGS survey 2024):
- Heritage Auctions (HA.com) – Best for certified high-grade examples
- Great Collections (GreatCollections.com) – Strong verification, reasonable buyer’s premium
- eBay with established sellers (99.8%+ feedback, return policies)
- VCoins/MA-Shops network dealers (fixed price, established businesses)
Show-Finding Resources:
- NumismaticEvents.com maintains the most current U.S. show calendar
- ANA.org lists major conventions and regional events
- Coin clubs within 100 miles of major metropolitan areas typically host 2-3 shows annually
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my 1910-S is genuine?
Authentic 1910-S cents have an S mintmark with a slightly flattened top curve measuring approximately 1.3mm in height. The S should be positioned approximately 0.5mm from the date and aligned with the bottom of the numerals. Under 10x magnification, the mintmark should show the same die polishing lines and surface texture as the surrounding field. The S punch used in 1910 has a distinctive shape not used in later years, which many counterfeiters fail to accurately reproduce.
Why do some 1910 cents appear red while others are brown?
The copper in Lincoln cents naturally oxidizes over time, transitioning from mint-red to red-brown and eventually fully brown. Coins designated RD (Red) by grading services retain at least 95% of their original mint color, while RB (Red-Brown) examples retain 5-94% red color. BN (Brown) examples have less than 5% original red remaining. Environmental factors, storage conditions, and handling all affect this natural progression. A 1910 cent that remains fully red after 115 years has likely been carefully preserved in ideal conditions since the time of minting.
What makes the 1910-S so much more valuable than the regular 1910?
The 1910-S commands significantly higher prices due to:
- Lower mintage (6,045,000 vs. 146,801,218)
- Higher attrition rate at the San Francisco Mint (harder strikes causing more die breaks and early die retirement)
- Greater circulation in the Western states leading to lower survival rates in high grades
- Historically lower collecting activity in the Western regions during the early-to-mid 20th century, resulting in fewer preserved examples
Is my 1910 penny with small spots valuable?
Small carbon spots are common on copper coins and generally reduce value. Grading services typically deduct from the technical grade or assign lower color designations based on spotting severity. Light spotting may reduce value by 10-30%, while heavy spotting can impact value by 50% or more compared to spot-free examples. Some collectors seek naturally toned examples with attractive patina, but carbon spots (small black specks) are considered detractions rather than desirable toning.
References and Sources:
- PCGS Population Report & Price Guide, April 2025
- Heritage Auction Archives, 2020-2025
- U.S. Mint Annual Report, 1910
- “The Flying Eagle & Indian Cent Attribution Guide” by Richard Snow
- “A Guide Book of Lincoln Cents” by Q. David Bowers
- Coppercoins Variety Verification Service records, 2023-2025
- American Numismatic Association Grading Standards, 2024 Edition