1913 Penny Coin Value (Errors List, “D”, “S” & No Mint Mark Worth)

Hidden within pocket change collections lies one of America’s most fascinating early Lincoln cents—the 1913 wheat penny. Struck just four years after Victor David Brenner’s iconic Lincoln portrait replaced the Indian Head design, this historic cent represents a pivotal moment in U.S. numismatic history.

The combination of historical significance, early Lincoln cent status, and varying mint marks from Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco creates multiple collecting opportunities within this single 1913 vintage year. Values reflect the collecting significance of this early date, with examples ranging from around $7 in worn condition to over $1,200 for top-grade San Francisco specimens, while proof coins can reach $1,118.

Whether you’ve discovered one in inherited change or are considering adding this classic wheat cent to your collection, understanding the 1913 penny’s unique characteristics could reveal substantial value hiding in plain sight.

 

1913 Penny Value By Variety

The worth of a 1913 penny varies significantly depending on its mintmark and grade, with pristine specimens from certain mints fetching considerably higher premiums, as the table demonstrates. If you know the grade of your coin, you can find the exact price below in the Value Guides section.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Modern Pennies Worth Money (1959 – Present)

 

Top 10 Most Valuable 1913 Penny Worth Money

The Most Valuable 1913 Penny Chart demonstrates the dramatic premium structure that separates exceptional preservation from typical specimens, with condition and mintmark creating distinct value tiers across this historic wheat cent year.

Leading the rankings is the 1913-S MS66, commanding an impressive $63,250 and establishing San Francisco’s scarce mintage as the ultimate prize for serious collectors.

The Philadelphia specimens show remarkable strength in high grades, with 1913 MS67 examples reaching $47,150, proving that even common mintages achieve substantial premiums when preservation approaches perfection. Denver Mint examples also perform exceptionally amazing, with MS67 specimens fetching $36,000.

The chart reveals a critical collecting principle: grade escalation creates exponential value jumps rather than linear progression. The difference between MS65 and MS67 specimens often represents tens of thousands of dollars, reflecting the extreme scarcity of early wheat pennies in pristine condition after 112 years of potential circulation and environmental exposure.

Also Read: Lincoln Wheat Penny Value (1909-1958)

 

History of the 1913 Penny

The 1913 penny is part of the Lincoln Wheat Penny series, which the United States Mint struck from 1909-1958. The Lincoln penny itself, also known as the Lincoln cent holds a special place in our country’s history as it was the first U.S. coin to feature a president’s portrait.

In 1905, the Mint commissioned artist and coin designer August Saint-Gaudens to redesign the cent and three other gold coins. Unfortunately, Saint-Gaudens passed away in 1907 before completing the redesign for the cent. As a result, the Mint brought in Victor David Brenner, who took over the project.

Eventually, the Mint released the newly designed Lincoln Wheat Penny in 1909 to commemorate Abraham Lincoln’s centennial birthday. Brenner’s penny featured Lincoln’s portrait on the obverse and two wheat stalks on the reverse, thus the name “Wheat Penny” or “Wheatie.”

In 1913, the facilities at Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco minted the Lincoln wheat penny. The Philadelphia mint had the highest production of regular strike pennies and also produced matte proof pennies specifically for collectors. The Denver mint had the second highest production followed by San Francisco, which had a significantly low output, making the rare 1913-S penny a semi-key date that’s highly desirable for collectors.

All in all, 1913 pennies are not particularly rare, but some errors or die variations can make a difference in terms of the coin’s value. This year has very few significant errors but the ones that do exist can be worth a premium. Other factors such as the condition and mint mark also influence the value of a 1913 Lincoln penny.

Also Read: Top 100 Rarest Pennies Worth Money (1787 – Present)

 

Is your 1913 Penny rare?

Confirm the exact rarity tier and historical significance of your specific wheat penny using our CoinValueChecker App‘s specialized assessment for early Lincoln cents.

 

Key Features of the 1913 Penny

In this section, we’ll explore the physical features of a 1913 penny. By familiarizing yourself with these features, you will know what to look for when grading a Lincoln wheat penny.

The Obverse Of The 1913 Penny

The obverse of the 1913 penny features Abraham Lincoln’s right-facing portrait. The inscription LIBERTY appears on the left while the date, 1913, is inscribed to the right of Lincoln’s profile. The motto, IN GOD WE TRUST, is arched at the top along the coin’s edge.

The Reverse of The 1913 Penny

When turned over, the 1913 penny spots two bold wheat leaves on the left and right sides of the coin, thus the name Lincoln Wheat Pennies or Wheaties. The denomination, ONE CENT, is also boldly inscribed at the center of the coin followed by the inscriptions UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. The Latin-language motto, E-PLURIBUS UNUM is arched at the top along the coin’s edge.

Other Features of the 1913 Penny

The 1913 penny comprises 95% Copper and a mix of 5% Tin and Zinc. This coin weighs 3.11 grams, measures 19.00 millimeters in diameter, and comes with a plain edge.

In circulated condition, a 1913 penny will have a brownish tone to it while an uncirculated gem will have a shiny, reddish luster. The 1913 pennies minted in Denver and San Francisco spot the mint marks D and S respectively on the obverse just below the date. The 1913-S penny is considered a semi-key date and examples can be worth thousands, especially in uncirculated condition.

Also Read: 100 Most Valuable Wheat Pennies Worth Money (1909 to 1958)

 

1913 Penny Mintage & Survival Data

The 1913 penny production data reveals stark contrasts between original mintage volumes and current survival rates that fundamentally shape today’s collecting landscape.

Philadelphia dominated with 76.5 million business strikes while Denver produced 15.8 million pieces, yet both show remarkably low survival rates under 0.01% after more than a century of circulation wear.

San Francisco’s limited 6.1 million mintage created the foundation for today’s most coveted variety, achieving a slightly higher 0.0164% survival rate. The dramatic contrast emerges with proof specimens—despite minimal production of just 2,848 coins, an exceptional 8.78% survival rate demonstrates how collector preservation vastly outperforms circulation exposure. This disparity reflects early copper pennies in everyday commerce versus the careful stewardship of proof coins by dedicated collectors from the moment of issue.

The survival distribution shows Philadelphia coins still dominating available supplies through sheer original numbers, while Denver examples represent a smaller market segment and San Francisco pieces command premium status. These survival patterns directly influence collecting strategies and value assessment across different mint marks.

Also Read: 100 Most Valuable Indian Head Penny Coins Worth Money (1859 – 1909)

 

The Easy Way to Know Your 1913 Penny Value

Determining whether your 1913 wheat penny is worth modest premiums or hundreds of dollars depends on precise grading factors. These copper coins show value fluctuations based on color retention—red specimens versus brown patina—and condition levels ranging from circulated to exceptional MS66+ preservation.

Lincoln’s cheek and jaw details, wheat stalk sharpness, and rim quality reveal grade distinctions between MS63-MS65 examples and superior specimens.

For instant grade assessment of your 1913 wheat pennies, use our CoinValueChecker App to quickly evaluate condition and potential value without the guesswork.

 

1913 Penny Value Guides

The 1913 wheat penny series encompasses four distinct varieties that represent the early years of Lincoln cent production, each carrying unique collecting characteristics and market values. Unlike later wheat cents with more complex variety structures, 1913 pennies offer a straightforward collecting approach across three mint facilities plus proof specimens from Philadelphia.

1913 Penny Types:

• 1913 No Mint Mark Penny (Philadelphia)
• 1913-D Penny (Denver)
• 1913-S Penny (San Francisco)
• 1913 Proof Penny (Philadelphia)

Also Read: Value Of Old Pennies By Year (1959-Present)

 

1913 No Mint Mark Penny Value

The 1913 no mint mark penny from Philadelphia represents the most common variety in the commemorative wheat series, with approximately 76.5 million pieces struck.

Circulated examples typically trade depending on condition and colors. So color designation becomes critical for value assessment, with Red (RD) representing 95% or more original mint color, Red-Brown (RB) showing between 5% and 95% original color, and Brown (BN) displaying less than 5% original mint color.

A professional institution notes that possibly no more than 500 or so 1913-P wheat cents survive in Mint State Red condition, creating significant scarcity for top-tier examples. A full-red grade MS67 penny in gem condition could reach as much as $16,000 — though such examples are extremely rare. Currently, there are only 16 MS67 in the agency’s statistics.

The auction record demonstrates the extraordinary premium potential for exceptional preservation. In 2008, auctioned a full-red 1913 penny graded MS67 for an eye-watering $47,150, Proof that 1913 no mint mark Penny can also have great potential for appreciation.

Professional auction records demonstrate recognition for this foundational wheat cent variety across all preservation levels.

Market engagement remains steady with ongoing collector interest reflecting the enduring appeal of this historic wheat cent debut.

 

1913-D Penny Value

Denver Mint operations in 1913 produced 15,804,000 wheat cents bearing the distinctive “D” mintmark positioned below the date on the obverse. Although the output is large, the value is also significant.

Meanwhile, color designation significantly impacts valuation across all grade levels, with Red (RD) specimens commanding the highest premiums. These coins MS60 Red to MS67 Red are worth between $165 and $36,500. Specifically depending on their grade and color Red (RD), Red-Brown (RB) and Brown (BN).

The auction record demonstrates exceptional potential for premium Red specimens. Auctions achieved $36,000 for an MS67RD specimen on January 19, 2025, establishing the current benchmark for this early Denver issue. This remarkable result reflects both the technical difficulty of preserving full Red color on early Denver cents.

Certified auction results showcase the immediate market appreciation Denver’s inaugural Lincoln cent production achieved among serious collectors.

Collector enthusiasm continues strong with market patterns reflecting sustained demand for this milestone Denver Mint variety.

 

1913-S Penny Value

The 1913-S struck during the early years of the series when San Francisco production remained limited. An “S” mintmark found under the date of a Lincoln Wheat Penny indicates that the penny was minted by the San Francisco Mint.

A total of 6,101,000 1913-S pennies were minted, making it a well-known rarity among collectors. Besides, the 1913-S is a scarce semi-key date in circulated grades. It is a rare coin in mint state and a very rare coin in Gem Full Red condition.

Market premiums reflect the coin’s scarcity across all grades. These coins are worth $260 and up even in lower circulated conditions, while premium examples command exponentially higher values. The auction record stands at $63,250 for an MS66 specimen sold on January 5, 2006, establishing this variety as one of the most valuable regular-issue 1913 Lincoln cents.

Auction venues have consistently recognized the scarcity premium and historical significance this low-mintage variety represents.

Market dynamics show reliable collector engagement with specimens demonstrating the appeal of San Francisco’s limited wheat cent production.

 

1913 Proof Penny Value

Philadelphia Mint’s 1913 matte proof cents represent a fascinating chapter in early 20th-century numismatic history. 2,983 proof 1913 Pennies were made and are worth $425 and up. These special collector pieces featured distinctive matte surfaces rather than the brilliant mirror-like finish of modern proofs, requiring careful examination of rims and striking details to distinguish them from uncirculated business strikes.

Market recognition demonstrates dramatic value appreciation for exceptional examples. A brown 1913 proof penny graded MS63 is worth about $550 while a full red gem will bring in double the amount at about $800. The premium increases exponentially at higher grades, where red examples can fetch multiples of brown specimens in the same grade.

The auction record also exemplifies this premium structure perfectly. The highest selling price for a proof cent, with perfect squared off rims, from the same year and produced in Philadelphia is $32,700. It is graded PR67 and was also sold on March 2009.

Professional auction platforms confirm consistent market appreciation for the superior craftsmanship and mirror-like surfaces of these premium specimens.

Market activity reflects collectors who value both technical excellence and the historic significance of early Lincoln cent proofs.

Also Read: Top 100 Most Valuable Modern Pennies Worth Money (1959 – Present)

 

Rare 1913 Penny Error List

Although 1913 pennies are generally only worth their face value, some rare error coins can be worth tens or even hundreds of dollars, making them a great addition to any collection.

1. 1913 No Mint Mark Penny With UNUM On The Rim Errors

Die misalignment errors can displace the coin’s design, causing the dies to strike some of the design elements away from the center.

For example, some 1913 pennies feature a die misalignment error in which the words UNUM from the Latin motto on the reverse are struck so close to the rim they almost disappear. One such 1913 no-mint mark penny was auctioned for a whopping $1,800, making this one of the most expensive error coins in the series.

2. 1913-D Penny Struck-Thorough Errors

An error that comes up in the 1913-D penny series is the struck-through, which occurs when a foreign object such as a speck of wood, piece of cloth, or grease is struck between the die and planchet, leaving its impression on the coin’s surface.

Some struck-through errors can be quite dramatic and tend to fetch good money. For example, a collector on eBay paid $50 for a 1913-D penny with a struck-through error, making this a nice addition to your collection.

3. 1913-S Lincoln Penny Missing L in “Liberty” Errors

Another valuable error in the 1913 penny series involves a missing letter. As the name suggests, this is an error in which a letter is missing from the inscriptions on the coin’s obverse or reverse.

In this case, the letter L is missing from the word LIBERTY, resulting in a unique coin with incomplete inscriptions. One such coin was sold for an impressive $497, another error worth looking for.

Also Read: 42 Rare Penny Errors List with Pictures (By Year)

 

Where to Sell Your 1913 Penny?

With comprehensive knowledge about 1913 wheat penny varieties and their market potential, it’s time to capitalize on your discoveries by exploring the most effective platforms where collectors successfully monetize their vintage Lincoln cent investments, from local coin shops to specialized online auction houses.

Check out now: Best Places To Sell Coins Online (Pros & Cons)

 

1913 Penny Market Trend

*Market Trend Chart showing the number of people paying attention to this coin.

 

FAQ About The 1913 Penny

1. Are 1913 Pennies Rare?

The 1913 pennies can be hard to find these days only because they are such an old currency. But, these coins are not necessarily rare—you can still come across a few examples in circulated condition and in Mint State. After all, the Mint produced close to 100 million of these Wheaties, with the 1913-S penny being the scarcest of them all due to its low mintage.

2. How Much Is A 1913 One Penny Worth Today?

At face value, a 1913 penny is worth about $0.25 but the value can increase depending on the coin’s condition, mint mark and rarity. You can expect as much as $50 for a penny in lower Mint State grades. Coins in higher grades or those with special features can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

3. How Many 1913 Pennies Were Minted?

The Mint produced close to 100 million pennies in 1913, with the Philadelphia mint having the highest mintage followed by Denver and San Francisco. The 1913-S penny is the rarest of them due to its significantly lower mintage compared to the other two varieties.