Is a 1911 Penny Worth Anything?
Ever wondered if a 1911 penny holds any real value? Believe it or not, certain 1911 one-cent coins can be worth over $1,000—especially rare varieties or coins in exceptional condition. Many of these pennies have fetched hundreds or thousands at auctions, depending on their mint mark, condition, and any minting errors they may possess.
A Quick Look: Year, Mints and Cent Features
Year and Mints
The 1911 Wheat penny marked the third production year of the Lincoln cent series, with coins minted at three locations: Philadelphia (no mint mark – 101,177,787 made), Denver (D – 12,672,000 made), and San Francisco (S – 4,026,000 made). The mint location plays a major role in the coin’s value.
- Philadelphia (no mint mark): Most common and typically most affordable. In Mint State (MS65+) condition, they can be valued between $200 and $400. Premium coins with vibrant red tones can sell for more.
- Denver (D mint mark): Minted in fewer numbers, the 1911 D penny is more desirable. Coins with full red coloration in MS65 can exceed $500.
- San Francisco (S mint mark): The scarcest of the three. High-grade 1911-S coins (AU55-MS62) often surpass $1,000, while MS65 Red examples can bring in several thousand dollars.
Although 1911 isn’t a key date, some well-preserved examples are exceptionally valuable, especially in higher grades.
Common Characteristics of 1911 Coins
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Weight | 3.11 g |
| Metal Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Abraham Lincoln |
| Reverse Design | Two wheat ears |
| Designer | Victor D. Brenner |
| Inscriptions | IN GOD WE TRUST, LIBERTY, ONE CENT, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA |
These features are consistent across all 1911 penny variants, but their worth depends on many additional elements.
Other Factors Affecting the Value of a Coin
The mint mark is only one of many variables that influence the value of a 1911 Wheat penny. Other key elements include:
- Grade (Condition): Higher grades on the Sheldon scale command significantly higher prices. Coins in Mint State (MS) are worth far more than those in lower grades.
- Coloration: Pennies with a bright red tone are more valuable than brown or red-brown ones due to minimal exposure to air.
- Errors and Varieties: Rare mistakes such as double strikes or repunched mint marks can boost value considerably.
- Certification: Graded coins from NGC, PCGS, or CAC tend to be more trusted and valued by collectors.
- Market Trends: Demand from collectors and auction trends can cause prices to fluctuate.
If you want to quickly estimate a coin’s worth, tools like the Coin ID Scanner app can be helpful. A simple scan can reveal its history and potential value.
How Much Is a 1911 Penny Worth?
The Most Expensive Specimens
Some 1911 pennies have been sold for staggering amounts due to their rarity and exceptional condition. Here are a few standout examples:
1911 D MS 67 RD Lincoln Wheat Penny
- Mint: Denver
- Grade: MS 67 RD (Red)
- Price: $66,000 (2022)
- This record-breaking coin is cherished for its near-flawless condition and bright red surface—a rare combination for Denver-issued cents.
1911 S MS 66 RD Lincoln Wheat Penny
- Mint: San Francisco
- Grade: MS 66 RD (Red)
- Price: $27,600 (2007)
- Among the highest-graded 1911-S pennies, its limited mintage and preservation make it highly desirable.
1911 MS 67 RD Lincoln Wheat Penny (No Mint Mark)
- Mint: Philadelphia
- Grade: MS 67 RD (Red)
- Price: $21,850 (2007)
- A stunning example that proves Philadelphia-issued coins can also achieve top dollar when preserved flawlessly.
1911 PR 66 RD Proof Lincoln Wheat Penny
- Mint: Philadelphia (Proof)
- Grade: PR 66 RD (Red)
- Price: $14,950 (2005)
- Proof coins were made for collectors and usually have a small mintage. This one stands out for its bright red finish.
1911 PR 66 RB Proof Lincoln Wheat Penny
- Mint: Philadelphia (Proof)
- Grade: PR 66 RB (Red-Brown)
- Price: $14,688 (2014)
- The red-brown hue and pristine surfaces make this coin an excellent collector’s item.
Valuable Erroneous Pennies of 1911
Coins with minting flaws are particularly appealing to collectors. Here are a few notable 1911 error pennies:
1911 S/S MS 65 BN RPM Lincoln Wheat Penny
- Mint: San Francisco
- Grade: MS 65 BN (Brown)
- Error: Repunched Mint Mark (RPM)
- Price: $1,750 (2022)
- The double-stamped “S” adds rarity, increasing its value among error coin enthusiasts.
1911-D/D RPM MS64BN
- Mint: Denver
- Grade: MS 64 BN (Brown)
- Error: Repunched “D” Mint Mark
- Price: $910 (2022)
- Despite its average grade, the mint error contributes to its higher market value.
1911-D Lincoln Wheat Penny with Lamination Error
- Mint: Denver
- Grade: AU (About Uncirculated)
- Error: Lamination Error
- Price: $56.95 (eBay)
- Though not worth thousands, such defects are great entry points for beginner collectors.
Coin Value Chart Summary
| Coin | Value | Auction/Sale Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1911 D MS 67 RD | $66,000 | Heritage Auctions (2022) |
| 1911 S MS 66 RD | $27,600 | Heritage Auctions (2007) |
| 1911 MS 67 RD (no mint) | $21,850 | Heritage Auctions (2007) |
| 1911 PR 66 RD | $14,950 | Heritage Auctions (2005) |
| 1911 PR 66 RB | $14,688 | Heritage Auctions (2014) |
| 1911 S/S MS 65 BN RPM | $1,750 | GreatCollections (2022) |
| 1911 D/D RPM VF 25 BN | $910 | eBay (2022) |
| 1911-D Lamination Error | $56.95 | eBay (Listed by Seller) |
FAQs
Q1: What makes a 1911 Wheat penny rare?
A 1911 Wheat penny is rare if it has mint errors, an “S” mint mark in high grade, or strong red color in Mint State.
Q2: How can I check the value of my 1911 penny?
Use a coin scanner app like Coin ID Scanner or consult a coin grading service such as PCGS or NGC.
Q3: What is the difference between RD, RB, and BN designations?
They indicate color: RD (Red), RB (Red-Brown), and BN (Brown), with Red being most valuable.
Q4: Are 1911 proof pennies worth more?
Yes, especially if they have high grades and red coloration. Their low mintage and collector focus increase their value.
