by Blake Alma
The 1957 Wheat Penny, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, had a significant mintage of over 282 million coins. Despite this large number, high-grade examples of this coin can be harder to find. When searching for a 1957 Wheat Penny, aim to find one that is well-struck with attractive surfaces and sharp details. Read on to discover more about the 1957 Wheat Penny's value.
Auction Record: $2,280 (MS64BN)
Image Source: PCGS
History of the 1957 Wheat Penny
The 1957 Wheat Penny is a valuable addition to any Lincoln Cent collection. Full Red versions of the coin are available, though they often come at a premium. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the Wheat Penny features a bust of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two stalks of durum wheat on the reverse. President Theodore Roosevelt selected Brenner for this task based on his artistic merit.
1957 Wheat Penny Worth
The value of the 1957 Wheat Penny ranges from a couple of thousand dollars to over twelve thousand dollars, depending on its color and grade. The coin is available in shades from brown to red, with red versions generally fetching higher prices. Building a circulated collection of Wheat Pennies can be done for just a few hundred dollars.
Coin Specifications
- Type: Penny
- Year: 1957
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Total Mintage: 282,540,000
- Metal Content: 95% Copper, 5% Zinc and Tin
- Face Value: 1 cent
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Edge: Plain
- Designer: Victor David Brenner
- Diameter: 19.00 millimeters
FAQs About the 1957 Wheat Penny
Q: What is a 1957 Wheat Penny?
A: It's a one-cent coin featuring President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and two wheat stalks on the reverse. It's part of the Wheat Penny series that ended in 1958.
Q: How can I identify a 1957 Wheat Penny?
A: Look for the date below Lincoln's bust on the obverse. The reverse features two wheat ears.
Q: Are there any rare variants of the 1957 Wheat Penny?
A: Yes, the 1957-D doubled die obverse variant is particularly rare and highly valued by collectors.
Q: What makes the 1957 Wheat Penny valuable?
A: Its value is determined by its condition and the rarity of errors like the doubled die obverse. Uncirculated examples or those with errors can be more valuable.
Q: How much is a 1957 Wheat Penny worth?
A: Circulated 1957 Wheat Pennies are worth a few cents above face value, but uncirculated or error coins can fetch higher prices.
Q: Where can I find a 1957 Wheat Penny?
A: They can be found in coin collections, estate sales, from coin dealers, and online auctions. They occasionally appear in circulation.
Q: How many 1957 Wheat Pennies were minted?
A: Over 282 million were minted in Philadelphia, and over 1.05 billion were produced in Denver.
Q: What is the composition of the 1957 Wheat Penny?
A: It is made of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc.
Q: Can a 1957 Wheat Penny be a good investment?
A: High-grade examples or those with significant errors can be a good investment for collectors focusing on condition and rarity.
Q: How should I store my 1957 Wheat Penny collection?
A: Store them in a cool, dry place, ideally in acid-free holders or albums designed for coins to protect them from environmental damage.