If you’ve ever come across a 1925 Lincoln Wheat Penny with a tiny “S” under the date, don’t overlook it. This simple-looking cent from the San Francisco Mint might be worth thousands—especially if it’s in excellent shape.
While it’s not the rarest penny by mintage numbers, its value skyrockets in high grades, with one example fetching over $54,000 at auction.
Let’s break down what makes this penny special and how you can tell if yours is worth a closer look.
Background
The 1925-S Wheat Penny was struck during a time when the U.S. Mint was pulling back on production. After years of cranking out hundreds of millions of coins, the San Francisco Mint made just over 26 million pennies in 1925—a drop that caught collectors’ attention.
By comparison, some earlier years saw over 200 million pennies produced. So, even though 26 million might sound like a lot, it’s actually considered a low mintage for that era. That makes this coin a bit more desirable, especially for those trying to complete a full Lincoln set.
Rarity
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. The 1925-S Wheat Penny isn’t too hard to find in circulated condition. If yours is worn down from years of use, it’s likely worth a few bucks to collectors. But finding one in Mint State condition? That’s another story.
High-grade versions of this coin, especially in MS65 or above, are seriously rare. And if the coin still has its original red copper color—graded as Red (RD)—it becomes even more valuable. A sharp-looking MS65 Red example sold in 2005 for a whopping $54,625 at Heritage Auctions.
Coins graded MS67 are almost mythical in rarity for this date and usually only show up in museum collections or elite private holdings.
Features
Want to see if your penny might be a winner? Here’s what to look for:
- Date: The front should show “1925.”
- Mint Mark: A small “S” just below the date shows it was minted in San Francisco.
- Reverse: The back should have the classic wheat stalk design used from 1909 to 1958.
If your coin has that rich red color, sharp details, and minimal wear, it’s time to get it checked out. Red coins in mint condition are extremely rare and can bring serious money.
Value
Here’s a quick comparison of estimated values based on condition:
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $1 – $3 |
| Fine (F-12) | $5 – $10 |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | $30 – $50 |
| MS63 Brown | $100 – $200 |
| MS65 Red | $8,000 – $55,000 |
If your coin leans toward the higher end of that table, professional grading is the next step. Reputable services like PCGS or NGC can verify your coin’s condition and authenticity, giving you an accurate valuation.
Spotlight
The 1925-S Lincoln Wheat Penny is proof that age alone doesn’t determine a coin’s value—condition is king. A well-preserved example can fetch tens of thousands at auction, even though millions were originally made.
So, if you’ve got a jar of old wheat pennies lying around, now might be the time to dig through them. A little “S” under the date might turn your ordinary penny into an extraordinary find.
FAQs
Where was the 1925-S penny made?
At the San Francisco Mint, shown by the ‘S’ under the date.
How many 1925-S pennies were made?
Just over 26 million were minted in total.
What’s an MS65 Red 1925-S penny worth?
It can sell for over $50,000 if certified.
What makes these pennies valuable?
High-grade condition and original red color increase value.
What should I look for on my coin?
Check for the 1925 date, an ‘S’ mint mark, and red luster.
