While many Lincoln Wheat Pennies from the early 1900s were minted in the hundreds of millions, the 1925-S Wheat Penny stands out for its lower production numbers and rarity in top condition.
Minted in San Francisco, this particular penny has become a favorite among collectors—especially those looking for high-grade, original red copper examples.
One even fetched over $54,000 at auction, proving just how valuable it can be under the right circumstances.
Importance
What makes the 1925-S special is that it was minted during a time when U.S. penny production was starting to decline. Earlier years like 1919 and 1920 saw production numbers of over 200 million.
But by 1925, the San Francisco Mint only produced around 26 million pennies. That’s still a decent number—but much lower than previous years.
Because of this, 1925-S pennies started to gain collector interest. And unlike Philadelphia or Denver mint issues, coins with the “S” mint mark often had poorer strike quality, making well-preserved examples even more desirable.
Rarity
If you’re holding a circulated 1925-S penny, it’s not extremely rare. These coins turn up fairly often at coin shops or online, usually with moderate to heavy wear. But the story completely changes when it comes to uncirculated coins—those with no wear at all.
Here’s the key: original red (RD) color and high Mint State (MS) grades like MS65 or higher are extremely rare. These grades mean the coin has full detail and original luster. An MS65 Red 1925-S penny sold in 2005 for a jaw-dropping $54,625.
The reason for such high value? It’s not just rarity, but condition scarcity. Very few of these coins survived in pristine state, especially with their original copper shine. MS67 examples are almost non-existent and rarely seen at public auctions.
Identification
Want to know if your coin is a 1925-S Wheat Penny? Here’s what to look for:
- Date: 1925 clearly stamped on the front (obverse)
- Mint Mark: A small “S” below the date, indicating San Francisco Mint
- Design: Wheat ears on the reverse side, a hallmark of all Wheat Pennies from 1909 to 1958
If your penny has a bright reddish tone, no wear, and sharp details, it may be worth getting professionally graded by a service like PCGS or NGC.
Value
Here’s a quick look at approximate 1925-S values by condition:
| Grade | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Good (G4) | $1–$3 |
| Fine (F12) | $5–$10 |
| Extremely Fine (EF40) | $15–$25 |
| About Uncirculated (AU50) | $40–$60 |
| Mint State (MS63 BN) | $150–$300 |
| Mint State (MS65 RD) | $5,000–$54,000+ |
Note: “BN” means Brown, “RD” means Red. Color plays a huge role in copper coin pricing.
Final Thoughts
The 1925-S Lincoln Wheat Penny may seem ordinary at first, but its real value lies in its condition.
While circulated examples are affordable, a bright, high-grade specimen can command thousands—sometimes tens of thousands—at auction.
If you come across a well-preserved 1925 penny with an “S” mint mark, it’s worth a second look. That little copper coin might just be your ticket to a small fortune.
FAQs
What makes the 1925-S penny valuable?
Its low mintage and rarity in high grades make it desirable.
Where was the 1925-S penny minted?
At the San Francisco Mint, marked by an “S” under the date.
How much is a 1925-S penny worth?
Anywhere from $1 to over $50,000 depending on condition.
What does MS65 RD mean?
Mint State 65, Red color—an uncirculated coin with original luster.
Should I get my penny graded?
Yes, if it looks uncirculated and has a bright red tone.
