1940 U.S. Wheat Penny

The U.S. government has been minting Lincoln-head one cent coins for circulation from 1909– present. 1909 was the centennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. This coin’s reverse design by Victor David Brenner from 1909–1958 depicted two stalks of wheat (shown). Then, from 1959-2008, an image of the Lincoln Memorial was struck on its reverse. In 2009 that was replaced by four commemorative designs marking the bicentennial of Lincoln’s birth. And, since 2010, this reverse design has depicted a Union shield. Until 1982 the U.S. Mint struck pennies in 95% copper, except for 1943. You’re purchasing a real copper coin!