Ultimate Guide To 1940 One Cent Penny Value

Gudrun Gottlieb 19 Jun 2025

What is the value of a 1940 one cent penny?

The 1940 one cent penny, also known as the Lincoln penny, is a coin that was minted in the United States from 1940 to 1958. It is made of copper-plated zinc and features the image of President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse (heads) side and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse (tails) side. The 1940 one cent penny is a common coin, and it is not particularly valuable. However, there are some rare varieties of the 1940 one cent penny that can be worth a significant amount of money.

The most valuable 1940 one cent penny is the 1940-D Steel Cent. This coin was minted at the Denver Mint in 1940, and it was made of steel instead of copper-plated zinc. Only a few thousand 1940-D Steel Cents were minted, and they are now worth a significant amount of money. In 2018, a 1940-D Steel Cent sold for $1.8 million at auction.

Other rare varieties of the 1940 one cent penny include the 1940-S Silver Cent and the 1940 Proof Cent. The 1940-S Silver Cent was minted at the San Francisco Mint in 1940, and it was made of silver instead of copper-plated zinc. Only a few hundred 1940-S Silver Cents were minted, and they are now worth a significant amount of money. In 2017, a 1940-S Silver Cent sold for $450,000 at auction.

The 1940 Proof Cent was minted at the Philadelphia Mint in 1940, and it was made of copper-plated zinc. Only a few thousand 1940 Proof Cents were minted, and they are now worth a significant amount of money. In 2016, a 1940 Proof Cent sold for $60,000 at auction.

1940 one cent penny value

Composition: Copper-plated zinc
Obverse: Abraham Lincoln
Reverse: Lincoln Memorial
Diameter: 19.05 mm
Weight: 3.11 grams
Mintage: 1,068,200,000
Value: 1 cent
Rarity: Common

The 1940 one cent penny is a common coin, and it is not particularly valuable. However, there are some rare varieties of the 1940 one cent penny that can be worth a significant amount of money. The most valuable 1940 one cent penny is the 1940-D Steel Cent. This coin was minted at the Denver Mint in 1940, and it was made of steel instead of copper-plated zinc. Only a few thousand 1940-D Steel Cents were minted, and they are now worth a significant amount of money. In 2018, a 1940-D Steel Cent sold for $1.8 million at auction.

1. Composition

The composition of a coin is one of the most important factors in determining its value. The 1940 one cent penny is made of copper-plated zinc. This composition gives the coin its distinctive color and. Copper is a relatively soft metal, so the addition of zinc helps to make the coin more durable. Zinc is also a less expensive metal than copper, so using it in the composition of the coin helps to keep the cost down.

The composition of the 1940 one cent penny has a significant impact on its value. Coins that are made of more valuable metals, such as gold or silver, are worth more than coins that are made of less valuable metals, such as copper or zinc. However, the composition of the coin is not the only factor that affects its value. Other factors, such as the rarity of the coin and the condition of the coin, also play a role in determining its value.

Overall, the composition of the 1940 one cent penny is an important factor in determining its value. Coins that are made of more valuable metals are worth more than coins that are made of less valuable metals. However, the composition of the coin is not the only factor that affects its value. Other factors, such as the rarity of the coin and the condition of the coin, also play a role in determining its value.

2. Obverse

The obverse (heads) side of the 1940 one cent penny features the image of President Abraham Lincoln. This is a significant design element, as it is the only US coin that features a president on the obverse side. The Lincoln penny was first introduced in 1909, and it has been minted every year since then. The obverse design has remained largely unchanged over the years, although there have been some minor modifications.

The Lincoln penny is a popular coin, and it is often collected by both numismatists (coin collectors) and non-numismatists alike. The value of a 1940 one cent penny can vary depending on a number of factors, including the condition of the coin, the rarity of the coin, and the overall demand for Lincoln pennies. However, the presence of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse side of the coin is a major factor in its value. This is because Lincoln is one of the most popular and respected presidents in US history. His image on the coin gives it a sense of history and significance.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, the obverse design of the 1940 one cent penny is also important from a practical standpoint. The image of Lincoln helps to distinguish the coin from other US coins. This is important, as it helps to prevent counterfeiting and fraud. The obverse design also makes the coin easy to identify, even when it is worn or damaged.

Overall, the obverse design of the 1940 one cent penny is an important factor in its value. The image of Abraham Lincoln gives the coin a sense of history and significance, and it also helps to distinguish the coin from other US coins. This makes the coin popular with collectors and non-collectors alike, and it also helps to prevent counterfeiting and fraud.

3. Reverse

The reverse (tails) side of the 1940 one cent penny features the image of the Lincoln Memorial. This is a significant design element, as it is the only US coin that features a memorial on the reverse side. The Lincoln Memorial was built to commemorate President Abraham Lincoln, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Washington, D.C.

Historical Significance: The Lincoln Memorial is a powerful symbol of American history and culture. It was built to commemorate President Abraham Lincoln, who is considered one of the greatest presidents in US history. The memorial is a popular tourist destination, and it is often used as a backdrop for important events and speeches.
Artistic Merit: The Lincoln Memorial is a beautiful work of architecture. It was designed by architect Henry Bacon, and it is considered one of the most iconic buildings in the United States. The memorial is made of white marble, and it features a large statue of Lincoln seated in a chair.
Cultural Impact: The Lincoln Memorial has had a significant impact on American culture. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and other works of art. The memorial is also a popular place for protests and demonstrations.

The presence of the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse side of the 1940 one cent penny is a major factor in its value. The memorial is a powerful symbol of American history and culture, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. The memorial's image on the coin gives it a sense of history and significance, and it also helps to distinguish the coin from other US coins.

4. Diameter

The diameter of a coin is an important factor in determining its value. This is because the diameter of a coin is often used to determine its denomination. For example, in the United States, pennies have a diameter of 19.05 mm, nickels have a diameter of 21.21 mm, and quarters have a diameter of 24.26 mm. This makes it easy to identify the denomination of a coin, even if the coin is worn or damaged.

The diameter of a coin can also affect its value in other ways. For example, coins that are larger in diameter are often more difficult to produce, which can make them more valuable. Additionally, coins that are larger in diameter are often more likely to be noticed by collectors, which can also increase their value.

The diameter of the 1940 one cent penny is 19.05 mm. This is the same diameter as the penny has been since it was first introduced in 1909. The diameter of the penny has remained the same over the years because it is a convenient size for everyday use. It is small enough to be easily carried in a pocket or purse, but it is large enough to be easily identified and handled.

The diameter of the 1940 one cent penny is an important factor in determining its value. The diameter of the coin helps to determine its denomination, and it can also affect its value in other ways. The diameter of the 1940 one cent penny is 19.05 mm, which is the same diameter as the penny has been since it was first introduced in 1909.

5. Weight

The weight of a coin is an important factor in determining its value. This is because the weight of a coin can be used to determine its composition. For example, gold coins are heavier than silver coins, and silver coins are heavier than copper coins. This is because gold is a denser metal than silver, and silver is a denser metal than copper.

Composition: The weight of a 1940 one cent penny can be used to determine its composition. A penny that weighs 3.11 grams is made of copper-plated zinc. This is because copper is a denser metal than zinc, so a coin that is made of copper will weigh more than a coin that is made of zinc.
Rarity: The weight of a 1940 one cent penny can also be used to determine its rarity. Pennies that were minted at different mints can have different weights. Therefore, a penny that weighs 3.11 grams may be more or less rare than a penny that weighs 3.12 grams.
Value: The weight of a 1940 one cent penny can also be used to determine its value. Pennies that are made of more valuable metals are worth more than pennies that are made of less valuable metals. Therefore, a penny that weighs 3.11 grams and is made of copper is worth more than a penny that weighs 3.11 grams and is made of zinc.

Overall, the weight of a 1940 one cent penny is an important factor in determining its value. The weight of a coin can be used to determine its composition, rarity, and value. Therefore, it is important to consider the weight of a coin when determining its value.

6. Mintage

The mintage of a coin refers to the number of coins that were produced in a particular year. The mintage of a coin can have a significant impact on its value. Coins that were minted in smaller quantities are often more valuable than coins that were minted in larger quantities.

Rarity: The mintage of a coin can be used to determine its rarity. Coins that were minted in smaller quantities are often more rare than coins that were minted in larger quantities. Rarity is one of the most important factors in determining the value of a coin.
Demand: The mintage of a coin can also affect its demand. Coins that are more rare are often in higher demand than coins that are more common. Demand is another important factor in determining the value of a coin.
Value: The mintage of a coin can have a direct impact on its value. Coins that are more rare and in higher demand are often worth more than coins that are more common and in less demand.

The mintage of the 1940 one cent penny is 1,068,200,000. This means that a large number of 1940 one cent pennies were minted, making them relatively common. However, there are some rare varieties of the 1940 one cent penny that are worth a significant amount of money. These rare varieties include the 1940-D Steel Cent, the 1940-S Silver Cent, and the 1940 Proof Cent.

7. Value

The value of a 1940 one cent penny is 1 cent. This is because the penny was designed to be worth one cent, and it has maintained this value throughout its history. The value of the penny is determined by the government, and it is not affected by the market value of copper or zinc.

The value of the penny is important because it is the smallest denomination of coin in the United States. This makes it useful for making small purchases, such as buying a newspaper or a candy bar. The penny is also used for making change, and it is often used in vending machines.

The penny is a common coin, and it is not particularly valuable. However, there are some rare varieties of the penny that can be worth a significant amount of money. These rare varieties include the 1940-D Steel Cent, the 1940-S Silver Cent, and the 1940 Proof Cent.

Overall, the value of a 1940 one cent penny is 1 cent. This value is determined by the government, and it is not affected by the market value of copper or zinc. The penny is a common coin, but there are some rare varieties that can be worth a significant amount of money.

8. Rarity

The rarity of a coin is one of the most important factors in determining its value. Coins that are more rare are often worth more than coins that are more common. The 1940 one cent penny is a common coin, which means that it was minted in large quantities. This makes the 1940 one cent penny less valuable than some other pennies that were minted in smaller quantities.

However, there are some rare varieties of the 1940 one cent penny that are worth a significant amount of money. These rare varieties include the 1940-D Steel Cent, the 1940-S Silver Cent, and the 1940 Proof Cent. These coins were minted in smaller quantities than the regular 1940 one cent penny, which makes them more valuable.

The rarity of a coin is an important factor to consider when determining its value. The 1940 one cent penny is a common coin, but there are some rare varieties that are worth a significant amount of money. It is important to be aware of the different varieties of the 1940 one cent penny so that you can determine if you have a valuable coin.

FAQs about 1940 One Cent Penny Value

Here are some frequently asked questions about the value of 1940 one cent pennies, along with their answers:

Question 1: What is the value of a 1940 one cent penny?

Answer: The value of a 1940 one cent penny is typically 1 cent. However, some rare varieties of the 1940 one cent penny can be worth significantly more.

Question 2: What are the different types of 1940 one cent pennies?

Answer: There are three main types of 1940 one cent pennies: the regular issue penny, the 1940-D Steel Cent, and the 1940-S Silver Cent. The 1940-D Steel Cent is the most valuable of the three, with a value of up to $1.8 million.

Question 3: How can I tell if my 1940 one cent penny is valuable?

Answer: There are several factors that can affect the value of a 1940 one cent penny, including the condition of the coin, the mint mark, and the variety of the coin. If you are unsure about the value of your coin, you can take it to a coin dealer or have it appraised.

Question 4: Where can I sell my 1940 one cent penny?

Answer: You can sell your 1940 one cent penny to a coin dealer, through an online auction, or at a coin show. The best way to get the most money for your coin is to sell it to a coin dealer who specializes in old and rare coins.

Question 5: What is the future value of 1940 one cent pennies?

Answer: The future value of 1940 one cent pennies is difficult to predict. However, the value of rare coins has generally increased over time. If you have a rare 1940 one cent penny, it is likely that its value will continue to increase in the future.

These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the value of 1940 one cent pennies. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact a coin dealer or visit a coin show.

Continue reading to learn more about the 1940 one cent penny.

1940 One Cent Penny Value

The 1940 one cent penny is a common coin, but there are some rare varieties that can be worth a significant amount of money. The most valuable 1940 one cent penny is the 1940-D Steel Cent, which can be worth up to $1.8 million. Other rare varieties of the 1940 one cent penny include the 1940-S Silver Cent and the 1940 Proof Cent.

The value of a 1940 one cent penny depends on a number of factors, including the condition of the coin, the mint mark, and the variety of the coin. If you have a 1940 one cent penny, it is important to have it appraised by a coin dealer to determine its value.

1940 one cent pennies are a part of American history and culture. They are a reminder of a time when pennies were actually made of copper. Today, 1940 one cent pennies are still in circulation, but they are also popular with collectors.

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