1944 Lincoln Wheat Cent

This is a United States one-cent coin, commonly referred to as a 'Wheat Cent' or 'Wheat Penny,' dated 1944. The coin features the profile of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse, designed by Victor David Brenner. It is composed of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, weighing approximately 3.11 grams with a diameter of 19.05 mm. Unlike the 1943 pennies which were made of zinc-coated steel to conserve copper for the war effort, the 1944 mintage returned to a brass alloy (often referred to as 'shell case bronze' because it was partially sourced from recycled shell casings). This specific specimen exhibits a visible date of 1944 with no mint mark, indicating it was produced at the Philadelphia Mint. The coin shows significant signs of circulation, characterized by a dull, brown patina and moderate wear on the high points of Lincoln’s hair and jawline. There are minor surface scratches and localized dark spots (toning) consistent with age and long-term handling. The rim remains relatively intact, though it shows some softening. This common-date coin is a quintessential example of World War II-era American currency and is valued primarily for its historical context and metal content rather than extreme rarity.

Explore similar items and categories: