The Lincoln cent series began in 1909 to celebrate Abraham Lincoln's 100th birthday.
By 1910, the new design was in its second official year of production.
The San Francisco Mint struck pennies that year alongside the main facility in Philadelphia.
Coins from this era feature the iconic portrait of Lincoln on the front and two wheat stalks on the back.
This early date holds rank 34 out of the 200 most valuable pennies on our list.
Pieces that carry an original red surface from this era are tough to find.
A premier example of this cent sold through Heritage Auctions.
The coin was certified in Mint State 67 Red condition.
On the standard grading scale, 70 represents absolute perfection.
A grade of 67 means the coin is almost flawless with sharp details and no major contact marks.
The Red designation means the coin kept nearly all of its bright, original copper color without turning brown.
This specific sale was recorded in an auction catalog under entry 01/25.
Top-tier examples like this one trade through major auction venues because elite collectors compete fiercely for them.
Most early wheat pennies entered circulation right away and saw heavy daily use.
People spent them on newspapers, groceries, and transit fares throughout the early twentieth century.
Because they changed hands so often, most surviving pieces are heavily worn and dark brown.
Copper reacts quickly with air, moisture, and skin oils.
Finding a penny from 1910 that avoided wear is already a challenge.
Finding one that also avoided natural tarnishing and stayed fully red is far more difficult.
Collectors who build high-grade registry sets want the finest known pieces for every year and mint mark.
That intense demand at the very top of the grading scale is what pushes prices up.
Start by looking at the front of your coin directly under the date.
You need to locate the small "S" mint mark beneath the numbers 1910.
If there is no letter below the date, the coin was made in Philadelphia instead.
Use a 5x or 10x jeweler's loupe under good lighting to inspect the coin's surface.
Check the highest points of Lincoln's cheekbone, jaw, and hair for any flat spots or signs of rubbing.
Look at the color to see if it shows natural copper shine or if it has aged into a dull brown tone.
If you want a fast way to check an old penny, you can scan it with Coin Value Checker to get an initial reading.
Watch out for cleaned coins that have an artificial bright orange sheen rather than original mint luster.
Always handle your coins carefully by the edges so your fingers do not leave spots on the metal.
Keep in mind that typical pocket change finds will not match the condition of top certified auction pieces.
If you want to know the value before you read another paragraph, see the coin valuation app tools we tested side by side.