You may be asking yourself whether or not you have a valuable Wheat Penny in your pocket or you have just discovered that you have one of those 1946 Wheat Penny. Although 1946 Wheat Pennies are not uncommon, they are still in demand among the coin collectors due to the fact that they belong to the historic series of Lincoln Wheat cents. Everything, history, value, grades, metal composition, and rare mistakes to make your Wheat Penny of 1946 worth more money will be explained in this guide.
History of the 1946 Wheat Penny
The world war II is what led to the minting of the wheat penny of 1946. Copper was again used by the U.S. Mint, since the steel war wartime cents in 1943 were scrapped. Millions were hit and they become a typical date coin currently. It has Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and the well known wheat stalk on the reverse.
1946 Wheat Penny Composition
Metal Percentage
Copper 95%
Tin & Zinc 5%
What is the Value of 1946 Wheat Penny?
Most 1946 Lincoln Wheat cents in circulated condition can be valued at 3-10 cents. Higher grade or coins containing rare errors could however fetch more.
Condition Estimated Value
Circulated 3¢ – 10¢
Uncirculated (Mint State) $1 – $10+
Rare Errors $50 – $500+
Best opportunity of good value = locate MS65 or higher rated penny.
Mint Marks for 1946 Wheat Penny
There are three main types:
1946 No Mint Mark (Philadelphia)
1946-D (Denver)
1946-S (San Francisco)
The no mint penny of 1946 is the most popular.
Priceless Wheat Penny Errors of 1946.
Certain kinds and mistakes may cost a fortune:
Error Type Possible Value
Double Die Obverse $50 – $300+
Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) $30 – $150+
Off-Center Strike $50 – $200+
Struck on Wrong Planchet $200 – $500+
When you encounter a peculiar mark, a lost mint mark, or a duplicate lettering mark, – have it graded by all means to the full value.
Should 1946 Wheat Penny Be Graded?
PCGS and NGC professional grading may add value to your coin when it appears in mint-state. Generally, raw circulated coins do not warrant a grade, but in case your coin has a shiny appearance, as well as it possesses a red hue and is devoid of any blemish, grading can be in your favor.
Conclusion
The 1946 Wheat Penny does not necessarily qualify as a rare coin, however, some of them could be worth a lot more than face value because of condition or mint mistakes. This year is still popular among the collectors since it is the classic Wheat reverse era. Before selling, always look to see if there are mint marks, strike flaws and incisions, and since even a common coin may prove to be a treasure in disguise.
FAQ
Is a 1946 Wheat Penny rare?
No, ordinary mistakes but rare mistakes or the top grade mistakes are worth something.
Are 1946 pennies made of copper?
Yes, they are 95% copper.
How much is the 1946 Wheat Penny selling at?
A few of the high grade or error specimens have fetched as high as hundreds of dollars at auction.
