At Pennyverse.info, we’ve decoded why certain 1946 Lincoln Wheat Pennies command five-figure prices. Below, discover how to identify and profit from these post-war numismatic treasures.
1946 Penny Value Breakdown (MS-67+ Red Grades)
| Variety | Mintage | Recent Auction Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1946-S (San Francisco) | 198,100,000 | $16,800 (MS-67+ RD) |
| 1946 (Philadelphia) | 991,655,000 | $14,950 (MS-67 RD) |
| 1946-D (Denver) | 315,690,000 | $2,585 (MS-67+ RD) |
*Note: Values reflect PCGS/NGC-certified coins in “Red” (RD) condition. Circulated examples are worth 0.05–0.05–5.*
Why the 1946-S Penny Is Most Valuable
Key Rarity Factors:
- Low Survival Rate in Gem Condition: Few survived due to heavy circulation.
- Post-WWII Metal Quality: Softer copper planchets prone to wear.
- Demand from Registry Set Collectors: Completing 1940s San Francisco sets.
How to Identify High-Value 1946 Pennies
Step 1: Locate the Mintmark
- 1946 (Philadelphia): No mintmark below the date.
- 1946-D (Denver): Bold “D” below the date.
- 1946-S (San Francisco): Crisp “S” below the date.
Step 2: Assess Color & Condition
- Red (RD): Full copper luster, zero toning (95% of value).
- Red-Brown (RB): Partial toning (50% value reduction).
- Brown (BN): Fully oxidized (90% value reduction).
Step 3: Grade Using Magnification
- MS-67+ Criteria:
- No visible scratches under 5x magnification.
- Full details on Lincoln’s beard and wheat stalks.
- Original mint luster intact.
Where to Find These Rare Pennies
- Original Bank Rolls: Search uncirculated rolls from the 1940s.
- Estate Sales: Target collections from the 1950s-60s.
- Coin Dealer Inventories: Ask for “Red” 1946-S pennies.
How to Sell for Maximum Profit
For 1946-S (MS-67+ RD):
- Certify with PCGS/NGC (100–100–300 fee).
- Consign to Heritage Auctions (targets deep-pocketed collectors).
- Promote Provenance: Highlight if from an original mint set.
For 1946/1946-D (MS-67+ RD):
- List on GreatCollections (lower fees than eBay).
- Leverage Social Media: Coin forums like Reddit r/Coins.
Avoid Costly Mistakes
- Never Clean: Wiping removes toning and cuts value by 80%.
- Beware of Altered Coins: Fake “S” mintmarks added to Philadelphia pennies.
- Verify Weight: 3.11 grams (use a jewelry scale).
FAQs
Q: Why is the 1946-S worth more than Philadelphia’s?
A: Fewer survived in top condition despite similar mintage.
Q: Where is the mintmark located?
A: Below the date on the obverse (front).
Q: Can I find these in circulation today?
A: Extremely unlikely—focus on estate sales/dealer stocks.
Found a 1946-S Penny? Get a Free Appraisal from Our Experts!
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