1936 S Small Cents Lincoln, Wheat Ears Reverse NGC MS-66 RD

The 1936 S Lincoln Wheat Cent represents a significant piece of American numismatic history, combining historical importance with exceptional preservation. This particular specimen, graded by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) as MS-66 RD (Red), showcases stunning original luster and brilliant red coloration that collectors and investors highly value. The 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln Wheat Ears Reverse coin is a must-have for serious penny collectors and those interested in Depression-era American currency.

Historical Significance of the 1936 Lincoln Wheat Cent

The Lincoln Wheat Cent series, produced from 1909 to 1958, represents one of the most beloved and collected coin series in American history. The 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln is a notable example from the middle period of this iconic series, minted during the Great Depression era when America's economy faced significant challenges. Despite economic hardship, the U.S. Mint continued producing these copper pennies, making them important historical artifacts that reflect American resilience during turbulent times.

The San Francisco Mint, denoted by the "S" mint mark, produced this particular coin with the careful craftsmanship that characterized American coin production throughout the 20th century. The 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln represents quality minting practices during a period when economic resources were stretched thin across the nation.

Design and Obverse Features

Victor David Brenner's iconic portrait of Abraham Lincoln adorns the obverse (front) of this 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln. The design captures Lincoln's solemn expression and dignified profile, making it one of the most recognizable images in American numismatics. The inscriptions "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST" frame the portrait, along with the mint mark "S" indicating San Francisco production.

The obverse design has remained virtually unchanged since its introduction in 1909, demonstrating the timeless appeal and respect afforded to this historic design. Collectors appreciate how well-preserved examples like this NGC MS-66 RD specimen maintain the crisp details of Lincoln's facial features and the sharp lettering surrounding the portrait.

Reverse Features and Wheat Ears Design

The reverse of this 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln displays the famous Wheat Ears design, featuring two wheat stalks flanking a central shield bearing the denomination "ONE CENT." This iconic design, also created by Victor David Brenner, remained in use from 1909 through 1958 before being replaced by the Lincoln Memorial design.

The wheat ears motif symbolizes American agriculture and prosperity, making this design particularly meaningful during the agricultural and economic challenges of the 1930s. The reverse inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" complete the design, creating a balanced and aesthetically pleasing composition that has captivated collectors for generations.

Grading and Condition: NGC MS-66 RD

This 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln has been professionally authenticated and graded by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company), one of the most respected third-party grading services in the numismatic industry. The MS-66 grade indicates Mint State quality with only very light wear visible under magnification, making this an exceptional example of a Depression-era penny.

The "RD" designation (Red) is particularly significant for copper coins like the 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln. This notation indicates that the coin has retained its original bright red copper coloration, a quality that becomes increasingly rare as copper coins age and oxidize. Coins graded as RD command significant premiums over those that have toned to brown or other colors, reflecting collector preference for original coloration.

The MS-66 grade places this 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln in the superior category of collectible specimens. At this grade level, the coin exhibits strong eye appeal with brilliant luster across both obverse and reverse surfaces. The strike is sharp, with excellent detail in Lincoln's hair, facial features, and the wheat ears on the reverse.

Technical Specifications

• Year of Minting: 1936
• Mint Mark: S (San Francisco Mint)
• Denomination: One Cent
• Coin Series: Lincoln Wheat Ears Reverse
• Obverse Designer: Victor David Brenner
• Reverse Designer: Victor David Brenner
• Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Zinc and Tin
• Weight: 3.11 grams
• Diameter: 19.05 mm
• Thickness: 1.52 mm
• NGC Grade: MS-66 RD
• Certification: Professionally Graded and Encapsulated by NGC
• Rarity: Scarce in MS-66 condition with Full Red coloration

Composition and Material Value

The 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln is composed of 95% copper with 5% zinc and tin, giving it significant intrinsic metal value beyond its numismatic worth. During the Depression era, this composition made each penny an important store of value for Americans struggling through economic hardship. Today, collectors appreciate both the historical significance and the copper content of these coins.

The bright red copper coloration visible in this MS-66 RD specimen is a direct result of the coin's composition and the careful preservation of its original surfaces. The copper content gives the coin its distinctive warm luster and aesthetic appeal that modern zinc-composition pennies cannot replicate.

Collectibility and Investment Potential

The 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln in MS-66 RD condition represents an excellent addition to any numismatic collection focused on early 20th-century American coins or Lincoln cent varieties. The combination of historical significance, excellent preservation, and original red coloration makes this specimen particularly desirable among serious collectors.

Coins from the 1930s have seen increasing collector interest in recent years, as numismatists recognize the historical importance of Depression-era coinage. The San Francisco mint mark adds to the appeal, as coins from this facility are often collected separately from Philadelphia and Denver Mint counterparts.

The NGC MS-66 RD grade provides assurance of authenticity and condition, offering peace of mind to collectors and investors. Third-party grading and encapsulation protect your investment while facilitating future sale or trade within the numismatic marketplace.

Why Choose This 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln?

This 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln offers multiple reasons for acquisition. First, it represents a significant moment in American history, minted during the challenging Depression era. Second, the exceptional preservation level ensures that future collectors will appreciate this coin's quality. Third, the original red coloration commands premium pricing and reflects collector preference for untoned copper coins.

Whether you're an experienced numismatist building a comprehensive Lincoln cent collection or an investor seeking historically significant American coinage, this 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln NGC MS-66 RD specimen delivers exceptional value and appeal. The combination of historical significance, beautiful design, superior condition, and professional authentication makes this a standout example of early American coinage.

Perfect for Collectors and Investors

The 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln is ideal for collectors interested in the following numismatic areas: Lincoln cent series, Depression-era coinage, San Francisco Mint products, vintage American copper coins, and high-grade cent specimens. Investors appreciate the tangible asset value, historical significance, and strong collector demand for well-preserved early-date Lincoln cents.

Secure this exceptional 1936 S Small Cents Lincoln NGC MS-66 RD specimen today and own a piece of American monetary history with outstanding eye appeal and strong investment fundamentals.