1935-D 1C, BN (Regular Strike)

The 1935-D Lincoln Wheat Penny is an interesting coin for both collectors and historians. Minted at the Denver Mint, this particular coin holds a special place among Lincoln cents due to its age and historical context. This penny was struck during the Great Depression, a time that greatly defined American history and its minting processes. As collectibility usually correlates with mintage numbers, the 1935-D 1C is considered moderately scarce but not exceedingly rare within its series. **Mintage and Specifications:** The mintage for the 1935-D Lincoln Wheat Penny was 47,000,000. This makes it relatively common in comparison to some of the rarer Lincoln cents. The coin carries the 'D' mint mark, signifying that it was produced at the Denver Mint. **PCGS Identification:** According to PCGS CoinFacts, this coin carries the PCGS number 2619. PCGS is one of the leading third-party grading services, known for setting the coin industry standard for quality and value. **Rarity and Collectibility:** From a numismatist's viewpoint, the 1935-D 1C is not deemed exceedingly rare, especially in lower grades. However, the penny gains interest due to its historical background and is often sought after for completing Lincoln cent collections. Condition plays a significant role in the value, with uncirculated examples commanding higher premiums. **Value and Recent Sales:** In terms of value, circulated examples in average condition tend to trade at modest prices due to their relatively high mintage and availability. However, coins in Mint State (MS) grades see an increase in value, with MS65 BN (Brown) examples fetching upwards of several hundreds of dollars at auction. Prices can climb even higher for MS66 and above, especially if the coin exhibits exceptional eye appeal and mint luster. Recent sales reflect these trends, with numerous completed auctions showcasing varying prices based on grading. For instance, examples graded MS64 and MS65 have been known to sell within the range of $100 to $200, depending on the market conditions and coin aesthetics. Auction houses occasionally report MS66 specimens obtaining prices beyond $1,000, particularly if they are devoid of significant blemishes and show strong strike features, which are highly desired by collectors. **Historical Context:** The 1935-D Lincoln Wheat Penny comes from a decade when the United States was grappling with economic adversity, and coins from this period often generate interest due to their historical significance. Coins minted during such challenging times serve as physical reminders of the past, reflecting the social and economic climate of the era. In summary, while the 1935-D 1C is not among the rarest Lincoln pennies, its value and intrigue come from a combination of condition, luster, and historical relevance. It appeals to both novice collectors and seasoned numismatists aiming for a comprehensive collection of pre-war Lincoln cents. The 1935-D Lincoln Wheat Penny remains an emblem of its era, revealing much about the nation's minting history during a significant chapter of the American experience.