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1942-S

Small Cents · Lincoln Wheat Cents · 1909–1958
Regular
Weight3.11 g
Diameter19 mm
MintSan Francisco
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 85,590,000
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition95% Copper, 5% Tin & Zinc
DesignerVictor D. Brenner
Collector's Key IDCK-541

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About this coinHistory

The 1942-S Lincoln cent was produced in approximately 85.6 million coins. Common.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $0.15 $0.20
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $0.20 $0.25
F-12 Fine (F) $0.25 $0.25
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $0.70 $0.80
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $1 $1
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $4.50 $5
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS) $5.50 $6.50
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS) $8.50 $9
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1942-S Lincoln Wheat Cent worth?
In Good condition it runs about $0.15–$0.20, rising to roughly $5.50–$6.50 in Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1942-S Lincoln Wheat Cents were minted?
85,590,000 were struck.
What is a 1942-S Lincoln Wheat Cent made of?
95% Copper, 5% Tin & Zinc, weighing 3.11 g.
What is the melt value of a 1942-S Lincoln Wheat Cent?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1942-S Lincoln Wheat Cent a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.