Lincoln Cent (Wheat, Bronze) Melt Value
US · 1909–1942, 1944–1958 · 1 cent
Live melt value (per coin)
$0.04
Snapshot: Oct 2026 · Updating…
Quick melt value calculator
Total melt value
$0.00
per coin: $0.00
Specifications
| Country | US |
| Years minted | 1909–1942, 1944–1958 |
| Denomination | 1 cent (face value: $0.01) |
| Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin |
| Gross weight | 3.11 g (0.1000 troy oz) |
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Copper content | 0.006514 lb (2.95 g) |
| Source | US Mint specifications |
How to identify
Date 1909–1942 or 1944–1958; wheat-ear ("Wheat Cent") reverse; bronze color; not magnetic; 3.11 g
Notes
95% Cu, 5% Sn+Zn bronze. 1944–1946 struck from recycled WWII brass casings (95% Cu, 5% Zn)—same melt value. Coinage Act of 1873, 17 Stat. 424.
Frequently asked questions
How much copper is in a Lincoln Cent (Wheat, Bronze)?
The Lincoln Cent (Wheat, Bronze) contains no significant precious metal content. Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin.
What is the melt value of a Lincoln Cent (Wheat, Bronze)?
At snapshot prices (October 2026): $0.04 per coin. Composed of 95% copper, 5% tin. Use the live calculator above for current prices.
Is the Lincoln Cent (Wheat, Bronze) worth more than melt value?
Many coins sell for more than melt — especially scarce dates, high grades, and coins with collector demand. Always check a current price guide (PCGS or NGC price guides) before melting or selling. Melt value is a floor, not a ceiling.
How do I identify a Lincoln Cent (Wheat, Bronze)?
Date 1909–1942 or 1944–1958; wheat-ear ("Wheat Cent") reverse; bronze color; not magnetic; 3.