1936 Lincoln Wheat Cent (Penny)
United States Mint (Philadelphia) · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins/Numismatics
Era / Decade
1930s (Dated 1936)
Material
95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc; solid bronze composition used prior to the 1982 transition.
Condition
Good to Very Good (Circulated). The coin shows visible wear on Lincoln's hair and the cheekbone. The date and lettering are clear, but the luster is gone and there is significant surface oxidation/toning.
Demand Level
Low/Niche. While 'Wheat Pennies' are popular for beginner collectors, the 1936 Philadelphia strike is one of the most common dates with over 311 million minted.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$0.10 - $0.75
Estimated Retail Value
$0.15 - $0.50
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings show individual circulated 1936 pennies selling for $0.50 to $1.00 with free shipping (leaving the seller with almost no profit), or in rolls of 50 mixed wheat cents for $5.00-$8.00.
Description
A 1936 Lincoln Wheat Cent from the Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark). Features the classic Victor David Brenner portrait of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse. This is a common-date circulated copper penny from the Great Depression era.
Key Features
Vintage Wheat reverse design (assumed based on date), high copper content, pre-WWII era, readable date and 'LIBERTY' inscriptions.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct font style for the era, natural wear patterns, copper weight appearance. High confidence in authenticity as this is a common, low-value coin unlikely to be counterfeited.
Flaws to Note
Heavy circulation wear, dark brown oxidation/patina, minor rim nicks, and lack of original mint luster. Not a key date or rare variety.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Best sold in bulk lots on eBay or Etsy, or at local coin shops. Single sales on marketplace apps are difficult due to shipping costs exceeding the coin's value.
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean the coin, as this destroys numismatic value. Bundle this with other wheat cents to create a 'starter set' or bulk roll to make shipping worthwhile. Use keywords like 'Vintage Copper', 'Wheat Back', and 'Depression Era' in the title.