1939-S Lincoln Wheat Cent MS65 RD Certified by Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC)

A High-Quality San Francisco Mint Wheat Cent

This 1939-S Lincoln Wheat Cent is a well-preserved example from the San Francisco Mint, struck during the later years of the classic Wheat Cent series. With a total mintage of 52,070,000 coins, the 1939-S issue is moderately available in lower grades but becomes increasingly desirable in higher Mint State condition.

Certified examples like this offer collectors the opportunity to own a premium-quality coin with strong eye appeal and original surfaces.

Lincoln Wheat Cent Design

The obverse features Victor David Brenner’s iconic portrait of Abraham Lincoln, showcasing solid detail in the hair, cheek, and jawline. The inscriptions “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and the 1939 date with the “S” mintmark are clearly defined.

On the reverse, two stylized wheat ears frame the denomination “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” a timeless design used from 1909 through 1958.

MS65 RD Grade Explained

This coin has been graded MS65 RD by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC). An MS65 designation places the coin in the Gem Mint State category, indicating strong luster, an attractive strike, and only minor contact marks visible under magnification.

The “RD” (Red) designation confirms that the coin retains its original bright red copper color. Full red Lincoln cents are the most desirable among collectors, especially when paired with higher Mint State grades.

Collector Appeal & Scarcity in Higher Grades

While the 1939-S is not considered a key date by mintage alone, examples graded at the MS65 RD level offer a noticeable step up in quality compared to typical circulated or lower Mint State coins.

This makes it an appealing option for collectors building high-grade Lincoln Wheat Cent sets or upgrading to certified gem examples.

A Solid Addition to a Lincoln Cent Collection

Whether you are assembling a complete Wheat Cent collection or focusing on certified high-grade coins, this 1939-S Lincoln Wheat Cent MS65 RD delivers strong visual appeal and long-term collectibility.

Encapsulated by NGC, it provides confidence in authenticity, grade, and preservation for years to come.