1928 Lincoln Wheat Penny
United States Mint · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1920s (specifically 1928, indicated by the date on the obverse)
Material
95% copper, 5% tin and zinc (standard pre-1982 bronze composition)
Condition
Good (G-4) to Very Good (VG-8). The coin shows significant circulation wear with flattened detail on Lincoln's hair and clothes, though the date and lettering remain legible. Surfaces show minor spotting and typical oxidation.
Demand Level
Moderate/Niche. Constant demand from entry-level collectors, but high supply makes individual common dates slow to sell unless bundled.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$0.05 to $0.50 for a single circulated raw specimen
Estimated Retail Value
$0.01 (face value) up to $2.00 (collector retail from a dealer)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sold listings show single circulated 1928 pennies often sell for $0.25 to $1 including shipping, or in bulk lots where the price per coin averages roughly $0.03 to $0.10.
Description
Vintage 1928 United States Lincoln Wheat Cent. Obverse features the profile of Abraham Lincoln, the date 1928, and 'In God We Trust'. Reverse (implied) features iconic double wheat stalks. This is a circulated, non-mint mark coin struck at the Philadelphia Mint.
Key Features
Pre-1930s date; Wheat back design; original bronze composition; highly recognizable numismatic starter piece.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence; correct strike characteristics, period-accurate typography, and natural wear patterns are consistent with authentic 1920s minting. Weight and diameter appear standard.
Flaws to Note
Significant circulation wear, loss of fine detail on the bust, minor rim dings, and surface darkening/toning. Not a key date or rare error coin.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (as a lot with other wheat pennies), Etsy (for jewelry/craft use), or local coin shops (bulk 'melt' or 'junk' bin valuation).
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean the coin, as this destroys numismatic value. This item is best sold as part of a 'Wheat Penny Lot' to save on shipping. Use keywords like 'Vintage Wheat Cent', 'Pre-1930', and 'Philadelphia Mint'.