The 1942 wheat pennies have value as numismatic coins. Keep reading to learn more about these one cent coins.

1942 Wheat Penny

Specifications

Type: Wheat Penny
Year: 1942
Face Value: $0.01
Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
Total Weight: 3.11 grams

The US minted the 1942 wheat penny with no mint mark and also the 1942 D wheat penny and 1942 S wheat penny. The mint mark, when present, can be found on the obverse side of the coin below the date.

Series Location Quantity Minted
1942 Philadelphia 657,796,000
1942 D Denver 206,698,000
1942 S San Francisco 85,590,000

Value

The 1942 wheat penny with no mint mark and the 1942 D wheat penny have similar values. Each coin is worth around $0.15 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $0.25. In extremely fine condition the value is around $0.50. In uncirculated condition the price is around $1 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $2.

The 1942 S wheat penny is worth around $0.20 in good condition. In very fine condition the value is around $0.85. In extremely fine condition the value is around $1.25. In uncirculated condition the price is around $7 for coins with an MS 60 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 63 can sell for around $8.

Proof coins with no mint mark are available and they are each valued at around $40 in PR 63 condition. There were 32,600 proof coins minted.

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Grading System

Good- The date is worn but visible. The lines in the wheat heads are not visible. The rims on the coin are full.

Very fine- Lincoln's jawbone and cheekbone are worn but still separated. The wheat heads are not worn.

Extremely fine- There is only slight wear on the coin. All of the details are sharp.

MS 60 uncirculated- There are no signs of wear. The coin has luster, but there may be a few stains, abrasions, or surface marks.

MS 63 choice uncirculated- In the major focal areas there are some blemishes or contact marks. The coin's luster might not be as prominent.

PR 63 proof- This coin has reflective surfaces and only a few blemishes away from the major focal points. There are no major flaws.

 

Sources:

The Red Book


See also:

1943 Steel Penny
1941 Wheat Penny
1940 Wheat Penny