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How Much Are 1947 Wheat Pennies Worth?

The first Lincoln cent is often called a wheat penny because of the wheat stalks that wrap around the reverse of the coin. The wheat penny was minted from 1909 to 1958. The 1947 wheat penny varies in value based on its condition and where it was minted. Fewer pennies were coined in San Francisco, so those with an S mint mark tend to sell in the higher end of the price ranges listed.

Choice Uncirculated
- A coin in choice uncirculated condition has more of the original red-brown color, with no sign of wear and only minor blemishes. Wheat pennies from 1947 in this shape often sell for about $1.
About Uncirculated
- A wheat penny in about uncirculated condition can have slight wear on Lincoln's jaw and cheek, and on the wheat stalks. These coins go for 40 to 50 cents.
Extremely Fine
- The details of an extremely fine penny are still sharp, although there may be some wear in places. Wheat pennies from this year in this condition are generally valued at 20 to 25 cents.
Very Fine
- The wheat still looks sharp with no major wear in very fine condition, although Lincoln's face may show some wear. Coins in this condition tend to sell for 10 to 20 cents.
Fine
- In fine condition, Lincoln's face can have a fair amount of wear, as can the lines in the wheat heads--although they must still be visible. Values are generally in the five- to ten-cent range.
Very Good
- Lincoln and the wheat heads may have lots of wear, but about half of the lines in the wheat must still be seen in very good condition. Pennies in this condition don't carry much of a premium over the face value; they may be sold for a few cents.
Good
- In good condition, the lines in the wheat heads are completely missing and the date is well worn, although it still can be viewed. A wheat penny from 1947 in this condition is only worth its face value.

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