1946 Wheat Cent Appraisal

1946 Lincoln Wheat Cent

This is a 1946 United States one-cent coin, commonly known as a 'Wheat Penny' due to the reverse design. The obverse features the profile of Abraham Lincoln, as designed by Victor David Brenner. Struck in a composition of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, the coin exhibits a deep brown chocolate patina, indicating a 'Brown' (BN) color classification by numismatic standards. The date '1946' is clearly visible in the lower right field, and the absence of a mint mark below the date signifies it was minted at the Philadelphia Mint. The inscriptions 'IN GOD WE TRUST' and 'LIBERTY' are present. Regarding condition, the coin shows significant signs of heavy circulation; there is notable flattening of Lincoln's hair and cheekbone, and the rim shows moderate wear with several small contact marks or 'bag marks' throughout the fields. There appears to be some minor surface debris or localized corrosion behind Lincoln's head, which is typical for copper coins of this vintage that have been in general commerce for decades. The strike quality is average for the period.