S Mint Cent Appraisal

1918-S Lincoln Wheat Cent

This is a United States one-cent coin, commonly known as a Lincoln Wheat Cent, dated 1918 with an 'S' mint mark indicating it was struck at the San Francisco Mint. The coin is composed of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, measuring approximately 19mm in diameter. The obverse features the iconic right-facing profile of Abraham Lincoln designed by Victor David Brenner. The coin exhibits a deep brown patina typical of circulated copper. In terms of condition, the piece shows significant wear; the details in Lincoln's hair and beard are smoothed, and the high points of his coat are flattened. There is a visible nick on the upper rim above the word 'GOD' and several minor surface scratches and contact marks consistent with long-term circulation. The 'S' mint mark is located below the date and appears somewhat soft but legible. The edges are slightly rounded from wear. This coin represents an early 20th-century piece of American numismatic history, produced during the final year of World War I. While it lacks original mint luster, the lettering 'IN GOD WE TRUST' and 'LIBERTY' remain fully readable, placing it in a circulated grade such as Good or Very Good depending on the reverse state.