1923 Lincoln Wheat Cent (Penny)
United States Mint (Philadelphia) · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1920s (Specifically 1923)
Material
95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc; Bronze alloy composition used for early Lincoln cents.
Condition
Good to Very Good (G-VG circulated). The coin shows significant wear on Lincoln's hair and shoulder. The date is legible, but the rim is beginning to wear into the lettering. There is noticeable environmental tarnish (toning) and spotting.
Demand Level
Moderate-Low. While Wheat pennies are popular, the 1923-P is a high-mintage common date (74,723,000 produced) and is easily found in circulated grades.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$0.10 - $0.50 - $1.00 (Low-Mid-High). High-end assumes finding a buyer specifically filling a folder hole.
Estimated Retail Value
$0.50 - $1.50 (current market price for a common-date circulated specimen)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings for single circulated 1923-P cents range from $0.99 with free shipping (meaning the seller made almost nothing) to being included in bulk lots of 50-100 coins selling for $5-$8.
Description
A 1923 Lincoln Wheat Cent, minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark). This coin features the iconic Victor David Brenner design of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two stalks of wheat on the reverse. It is a circulated piece with a natural brown patina.
Key Features
Wheat reverse design (1909-1958), 100+ years old, high copper content, recognizable 'Wheatie' collectible status.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct font for '1923', correct profile of Lincoln, and weight/size consistent with US Mint specifications. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Significant circulation wear, dark environmental spotting/toning on the right field, minor rim dings, and lack of original mint luster. Not a rare date or mint mark.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Best sold as part of a lot on eBay or Mercari, or locally via Facebook Marketplace for collectors. Local coin shops may buy it but only at 'bulk wheat' prices (usually 2-5 cents).
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean this coin, as cleaning destroys numismatic value. Take clear macro photos of both the obverse and reverse. It is most profitable to 'bundle' this with other wheat pennies to justify shipping costs, as a single sale will likely result in a loss after platform fees.