Skip to Content

1936 Wheat Penny Value and Price Chart

1936 Wheat Penny Value and Price Chart

How much is a 1936 wheat penny worth? That depends on the condition of the coin and the mint mark. Circulated coins are typically worth between $0.17 and $1.71, while uncirculated coins are worth between $4.52 and $7.88. Proof coins are worth $227.

There’s something special about finding an old coin on the street. It’s like a little piece of history that you can hold in your hand. For many people, the appeal of collecting coins is simply the joy of the hunt. But for others, it’s about building a collection that has value.

Do you have a 1936 Wheat Penny in your collection? If so, do you know what its value is and how it compares to other wheat pennies? Check out our handy price chart below to find out. Keep in mind that these values can change depending on a number of factors, so always consult with a trusted expert before making any decisions about your coins!

What are Wheat Pennies?

Wheat pennies are a type of penny that was minted in the United States between 1909 and 1958. They get their name from the design on the reverse, which features two wheat stalks crossed in the center. Wheat pennies were made of copper, but they also contained other metals such as zinc and manganese.

The coins were designed by Victor David Brenner, who is considered to be one of the most important engravers in American history. Brenner was born in Lithuania in 1871 and immigrated to the United States when he was just a teenager. He apprenticed with several different engravers before eventually opening his own studio in New York City.

Lincoln wheat pennies are one of the most iconic American coins. They offer a unique window into the past and are relatively affordable, which makes them a good option for starting a collection. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just getting started, Lincoln wheat pennies are definitely worth your attention.

1936 Wheat Penny Identification Guide

1936 Wheat Penny Identification Guide

1936 Wheat Penny

Year 1936
EDGE Plain
DIAMETER 19.00 millimeters
WEIGHT 3.11 grams
METAL 95% Copper, 5% Tin and Zinc
DESIGNER Victor David Brenner

The 1936 Lincoln penny is one of the most popular coins among collectors. The obverse shows a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, with the words LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST. The reverse features two stalks of wheat, with the words E PLURIBUS UNUM, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, and ONE CENT.

Struck by the United States Mint in the midst of the Great Depression, the coin is made of a 95% copper composition with 5% tin and zinc. Weighing in at 3.11 grams, the 1936 wheat penny has a diameter of 19mm. Copper coins can develop patina over time, which can add to their value. Patina can range from light brown to red and is caused by exposure to oxygen and other elements. A coin with an attractive patina is often worth more than a similar coin without one.

If you’re a coin collector, then you know that mint marks are important for identifying and valuing coins. But what exactly is a mint mark? Mint marks are small letters that indicate where a coin was produced. For example, the 1936 Wheat Penny was minted at three different locations: Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). The mint mark is usually located on the obverse of the coin, under the date. Proof pennies also don’t have mint marks.

Are 1936 Lincoln Pennies Rare?

1936 Lincoln Penny

Location Year Minted
Philadelphia 1936 P 309,632,000
Denver 1936 D 40,620,000
San Francisco 1936 S 29,130,000

The 1936 Lincoln penny is not a particularly rare coin. The Philadelphia Mint struck over 309 million of them, the Denver Mint produced over 40 million, while the San Francisco Mint produced 29,130,000 coins. However, there were only 5,569 proof coins minted, so those are relatively rare. So, if you come across a 1936 Lincoln penny, it’s definitely worth checking to see if it’s a proof coin. But don’t expect to get rich quick off of it!

According to Dave Bowers’ “A Guide Book of Lincoln Cents”, Shane Anderson’s suggested mintage for the Type One proof coins (Satin Finish) is 3,700, while the suggested mintage for the Type Two proof coins (Brilliant Finish) is 1,869. The difference in finishes is most apparent when the coins are viewed under magnification. The Type One coins have a duller appearance, while the Type Two coins appear to be more brightly polished.

How Much is a 1936 Wheat Penny Worth?

Condition
1936 P
1936 D
1936 S
Circulated
$0.17-$1.71
$0.17-$1.13
$0.17-$1.13
About Uncirculated
$2.91
$2.28
$3.30
MS 60
$5.70
$4.52
$5.70
MS 63
$11
$5.70
$7.88
PR 63
$227
/
/

1936 wheat penny price chart

A 1936 no mint mark wheat penny can be worth anywhere from $0.17 to $11, depending on its condition. A circulated coin is one that has been used in everyday transactions and shows signs of wear. These coins are typically worth between $0.17 and $1.71. About Uncirculated coins have only slight wear and are typically worth $2.91. Uncirculated coins have not been used in circulation and show no signs of wear; these coins are worth between $5.70 and $11.

A circulated 1936 D wheat penny value is between $0.17 and $1.13. In About Uncirculated condition it is worth $2.28. An uncirculated Denver penny is worth between $4.52 and $5.70.

A 1936 S wheat penny is usually worth between $0.17 and $1.13 circulated, while an About Uncirculated coin is typically worth $3.30. The most valuable San Francisco Mint 1936 Lincoln pennies are those that remain in uncirculated condition, which can be worth between $5.70 and $7.88.

Proof pennies minted in the Philadelphia Mint can be worth $227 in PR 63 grade. These coins are sharply struck and have a higher quality than regular circulating coins.

So, if you have a wheat penny from 1936, it is worth checking to see if it is in good condition and where it was minted. You might have a coin that is worth more than you think!

What is the Most Expensive 1936 Lincoln Penny Ever Sold?

The most expensive 1936 Lincoln penny ever sold was a proof coin graded PR 67 by Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). The coin, which has a red patina, was sold for $18,600 in 2018. This particular coin is of the Type Two variety and is considered to be of Brilliant Finish. The high price tag reflects the rarity and desirability of this particular coin.

The second most expensive 1936 Lincoln penny ever sold was Philadelphia coin graded MS 68 by PCGS. This coin has a red patina and is one of only three to attain an MS 68 Red rating at PCGS. It sold for $16,620 this year.

How to Find the Value of Your 1936 Wheat Penny

If you’re a coin collector, or if you inherited a box of old coins from a relative, you may be curious to know how much your 1936 wheat penny is worth. The first step is to compare your coin to similar ones that have recently sold. Check online auction sites or visit a local coin dealer to get an idea of what similar coins are selling for.

Keep in mind that the value of a coin can vary depending on its condition, so be sure to carefully examine your coin before making a valuation. Once you have a general idea of what your coin is worth, you can then research its specific history to see if it has any added value. For example, some 1936 wheat pennies were minted with errors, which can make them more valuable to collectors. With a little effort, you should be able to find the value of your 1936 wheat penny.

1936 Lincoln Wheat Penny Rare Varieties

Many people who collect coins are interested in error coins. Error coins are coins that have been minted with errors.

1936 Lincoln Wheat Penny Doubled Die Obverse

The 1936 Lincoln Wheat Penny Doubled Die Obverse is one of the most common errors for this coin. The doubling of the words in the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the word “LIBERTY” occurs when the die that strikes the coin is struck more than once. This can happen when the die is not perfectly aligned with the coin or when the die is damaged. As a result, the image on the coin is doubled.

The 1936 Lincoln Wheat Penny Doubled Die Obverse is a very valuable coin. Its value depends on its condition, with circulated examples being worth $28 to $227. About Uncirculated specimens are worth $399, while uncirculated examples can bring in $552 to $2,524 or more.

1936 Off-Center Lincoln Wheat Penny

1936 Off-Center Lincoln Wheat Penny

Photo: ebayimg

So how does an off-center strike happen? Most likely, it occurs when the blank coin is not properly aligned with the die. When the die strikes the coin, it leaves an impression that is offset from the center. Off-center strikes are relatively rare, and most only occur in a small percentage of coins.

While most off-center strikes are only slightly misaligned, some can be up to 50% off-center. These errors are highly prized by collectors and can be worth hundreds of dollars. It is estimated that around 5% to 10% of all off-center strikes are worth $3 to $5. However, very rare coins can be worth $100 or more if they are 50% off center.

1936 Grease Filled Error

1936 Grease Filled Error

Photo: ebayimg

The grease filled error is one of the most common errors found on coins. It happens when oil or other viscous fluid gets caught in some of the design elements. The coin is then struck with a die, and the grease is pushed into the surface of the coin. This can cause the coin to have a mottled appearance, and it is often worth only a few dollars. However, some collectors believe that these coins are actually quite valuable, and they are always on the lookout for them.

1936 Die Crack Wheat Penny

Die cracks are among the most common types of errors found on wheat pennies. They occur when the metal die that strikes the coin becomes damaged, causing a raised line to appear on the coin. Die cracks can happen for a variety of reasons, including excessive heat, wear and tear, or even simply age. On the 1936 penny the crack usually runs vertically between the letters “B” and “E” in “LIBERTY”, resembling a capital letter “I”. As a result, this particular error is worth about $10 to $20.

5 Most Valuable 1936 Wheat Penny Ever Sold

5 Most Valuable 1936 Wheat Penny
No. Type Condition Sold Date Price
1 1936 1C Type One — Satin Finish PR66+ Apr 24, 2015 $35,250.00
2 1936 Lincoln Cent PR66  Jun 6, 2013 $21,150.00
3 1936 1C Type Two — Brilliant Finish PR67 Jan 4, 2018 $18,600.00
4 1936 Proof Set PR66-68 Jan 6, 2017 $17,625.00
5 1936 Lincoln Cent MS68 Jul 14, 2022 $16,620.00

1. 1936 1C Type One — Satin Finish PR66+ Red and Brown Sold on Apr 24, 2015 for: $35,250.00

1936 1C Type One -- Satin Finish PR66+ Red and Brown Sold on Apr 24, 2015 for $35,250.00

2. 1936 Lincoln Cent, PR66 Sold on Jun 6, 2013 for: $21,150.00

1936 Lincoln Cent, PR66 Sold on Jun 6, 2013 for $21,150.00

3. 1936 1C Type Two — Brilliant Finish PR67 Red Sold on Jan 4, 2018 for: $18,600.00

1936 1C Type Two -- Brilliant Finish PR67 Red Sold on Jan 4, 2018 for $18,600.00

4. 1936 Proof Set, PR66-68 Sold on Jan 6, 2017 for: $17,625.00

1936 Proof Set, PR66-68 Sold on Jan 6, 2017 for $17,625.00

5. 1936 Lincoln Cent, MS68 Red Sold on Jul 14, 2022 for: $16,620.00

1936 Lincoln Cent, MS68 Red Sold on Jul 14, 2022 for $16,620.00

FAQ

What makes a 1936 wheat penny rare?

A 1936 wheat penny is rare only if it is in pristine condition or has an error. Pristine condition means that the coin is in the same condition as when it was minted. An error can make a 1936 wheat penny rare, too. Some errors are more common than others, but all can increase the value of the coin.

Is a 1936 wheat penny worth any money?

Wheat pennies are worth more than face value if they’re in good condition. A 1936 wheat penny in circulated condition is worth between $0.17 and $1.71, while an uncirculated coin is worth between $4.52 and $7.88. Proof coins are even more valuable, with a proof coin from 1936 being worth $227.

Why is my wheat penny red?

If you’ve ever found a copper penny that’s turned red, you might be wondering why. It turns out that this is a very valuable coin, due to the process of patination. Patination is the result of oxidation, and it causes a thin layer of copper oxide to form on the surface of the coin. This layer is actually very protective, and it helps to prevent further oxidation. The red color comes from the presence of iron in the copper oxide. So next time you see a red wheat penny, don’t be alarmed – it just means your coin is worth more than you think!

Final Thoughts

Thousands of people have found a 1936 wheat penny in an old box of coins, and they’re eager to know how much it’s worth. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t as simple as they might hope. The value of a circulated coin ranges from $0.17 to $1.71, while an uncirculated coin is worth between $4.52 and $7.88. Proof coins are even more valuable, with a price tag of $227.

Of course, these are just general guidelines – the actual value of a coin depends on its condition and mint mark. So, if you’re hoping to cash in on your find, it’s best to consult with a professional coin dealer for an accurate appraisal.

1/5 - (1 vote)