Discover a remarkable piece of American numismatic history with this 1928-S Lincoln Wheat Cent. Graded by PCGS in XF-45 Brown (BN), this Small Cent represents a highly collectible example from the later years of the classic Wheat Ears reverse series. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, this coin offers both historical significance and attractive circulated condition that appeals to serious collectors and investors alike.

The Lincoln Wheat Penny, first introduced in 1909 to commemorate the centennial of Abraham Lincoln's birth, remains one of the most beloved coin series in United States history. The 1928-S variety comes from a period of economic transition in America, just one year before the catastrophic Stock Market Crash that would trigger the Great Depression. Coins from the San Francisco Mint during this era often exhibit unique characteristics due to the mint's specific production techniques and the quality of planchets used.

This particular specimen has been professionally authenticated and graded by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) as Extremely Fine-45 with a Brown designation. The XF-45 grade indicates a coin that shows only light wear on the highest points of the design while retaining significant original detail. The attractive brown patina develops naturally over decades, giving the coin a warm, chocolate-brown appearance that many collectors find especially appealing in early 20th century copper coins.

Coin Specifications

• Year: 1928
• Mint: San Francisco (S)
• Denomination: 1 Cent (Small Cent)
• Designer: Victor David Brenner
• Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Tin & Zinc
• Diameter: 19.05 mm
• Weight: 3.11 grams
• Edge: Plain
• Reverse Design: Wheat Ears
• Grading Service: PCGS
• Grade: XF-45 BN (Brown)
• Certification Number: Encapsulated in PCGS holder

Historical Significance

The Lincoln Wheat Cent series, also known as the Wheat Penny or Wheat Ear Cent, was produced from 1909 through 1958. The obverse features the iconic portrait of President Abraham Lincoln, while the reverse displays two stalks of durum wheat framing the words "ONE CENT" and "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA." This design by Victor David Brenner revolutionized American coinage and became an instant classic.

The 1928-S issue had a mintage of 17,266,000 coins, which is relatively modest compared to some other dates in the series. San Francisco Mint coins from this period are particularly sought after by collectors due to their generally superior strike quality and the interesting varieties that emerged from the West Coast mint. The 1928-S is considered a semi-key date in the Wheat Cent series, especially in higher grades of preservation.

During the late 1920s, the United States was experiencing significant economic growth followed by sudden turmoil. Coins from this exact year carry the distinction of having circulated during one of the most transformative periods in modern American history. Finding a 1928-S Lincoln Cent that has survived in Extremely Fine condition is increasingly difficult as time passes, making certified examples like this one increasingly valuable to numismatists.

Why Collectors Love This Coin

This PCGS XF-45 BN 1928-S Lincoln Wheat Cent offers an exceptional balance of affordability, historical importance, and eye appeal. The brown coloration is even and attractive, highlighting the remaining details in Lincoln's portrait and the wheat stalks on the reverse. In the XF-45 grade, you can still clearly see the fine lines in Lincoln's hair, the details of his bow tie, and the individual grains on the wheat ears.

Whether you're building a complete set of Lincoln Wheat Cents by date and mintmark, assembling a type set of 20th century American coinage, or simply looking for an attractive, certified piece of history, this 1928-S Small Cent represents an outstanding opportunity. Each coin tells a story of American industry, artistry, and resilience through economic hardship.

Every 1928-S Lincoln Wheat Penny has traveled through nearly a century of American life. From the hands of factory workers during the final years of the Roaring Twenties, through the challenging times of the Great Depression, and into the hands of modern collectors who appreciate the artistry and history these coins represent. The PCGS grading ensures authenticity and provides a standardized assessment of condition that gives collectors confidence in their purchase.

Don't miss your chance to own this authentic piece of American numismatic heritage. This certified 1928-S Lincoln Wheat Ears Cent in PCGS XF-45 Brown condition offers beauty, history, and potential investment value in one remarkable package.