1916 Lincoln Wheat Cent (Penny)
United States Mint (Philadelphia) · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1910s (Dated 1916). The Lincoln Cent was first introduced in 1909.
Material
Bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc). Pre-1982 composition provides intrinsic metal value above face value.
Condition
Good (G-4) to Very Good (VG-8). The coin shows significant circulation wear; Lincoln's profile is flat, the motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST' is faint but readable, and the rims are worn thin. There is visible dark oxidation and surface grime.
Demand Level
Moderate. Wheat cents are a staple for entry-level collectors, but 1916 is a common date with over 131 million minted.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$0.50 - $1.50 (Low/High range for a common-date circulated specimen)
Estimated Retail Value
$0.01 (Face Value) / $1.50 - $3.00 (Numismatic retail price)
Comparable Sales
Single circulated 1916 pennies typically sell for $0.75 to $1.25 on eBay (including shipping). Bulk lots of 'teens' wheat pennies often sell for $0.20 to $0.50 per coin.
Description
A 1916 Lincoln Wheat Penny from the early years of the Victor David Brenner design. Features the bust of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two stalks of wheat on the reverse. No mint mark below the date indicates it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint.
Key Features
Early series date (pre-1920); high copper content; symbolic wheat reverse design; highly recognizable and entry-level collectible.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct font for date; profile matches Victor David Brenner design; no 'S' or 'D' mint mark present. Confidence level: High.
Flaws to Note
Heavy circulation wear; surface scratches; dark toning/oxidation; lack of sharp detail in hair and wheat lines; potential 'woodie' toning (common for that era) which is visible as streaks.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for single coins), Local Coin Shops, or bundled on Facebook Marketplace. Due to low individual value, it is often sold in 'lot' sets to save on shipping.
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean the coin, as this destroys numismatic value. Take clear macro photos of both the obverse and reverse. List as part of a 'Starter Set' or 'Teens Decade' wheat penny lot to maximize shipping efficiency. Use keywords: 1916, Wheat Penny, Lincoln Cent, Early Date, Numismatic.