If you’re a fan of Abraham Lincoln and his iconic profile on pennies, you’re in good company. Since 1909, Lincoln cents have captured the hearts of collectors worldwide. While many Lincoln Memorial pennies are worth only their face value, others are incredibly valuable, especially if they’re in pristine condition or have unique minting errors.
Here’s a guide to some of the most valuable Lincoln Memorial pennies you should look out for.
1983-D Bronze Lincoln Penny
The 1983-D penny marked a transition from 95% copper coins to zinc-core pennies coated with copper. This change resulted in a fascinating collectible.
- Why It’s Valuable: It’s a transitional coin, rare in mint condition.
- Auction Highlight: An MS67-grade penny can fetch $1,400 or more.
1969 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
One of the rarest Lincoln Memorial pennies, the 1969 doubled die penny, features noticeable doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Why It’s Valuable: Its extreme rarity and striking mint error.
- Auction Highlight: An MS64 coin sold for $126,500 in 2005.
1981-S Type II Proof Lincoln Penny
In 1981, the U.S. Mint introduced a clearer “S” mintmark on some proof pennies.
- Why It’s Valuable: The Type II proof pennies are less common than Type I.
- Auction Highlight: PF68 examples are valued between $900 and $1,200.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
The 1983 doubled die reverse penny shows striking doubling on “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and “ONE CENT.”
- Why It’s Valuable: Its dramatic doubling and limited high-grade availability.
- Auction Highlight: An MS68 coin sold for $7,050.
1979-S Type II Proof Penny
Similar to the 1981-S penny, the 1979-S Type II penny features a sharper “S” mintmark.
- Why It’s Valuable: Fewer Type II proofs were made than Type I.
- Auction Highlight: A Type II proof penny sold for $4,000.
1998 Wide AM Penny
This penny features a reverse proof die error, with a noticeable gap between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.”
- Why It’s Valuable: It’s rare, especially in MS68 or higher grades.
- Auction Highlight: MS67 examples can sell for $5,000 or more.
1992 Close AM Penny
The 1992 Close AM penny is a rare transitional design with the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” closely spaced.
- Why It’s Valuable: Only a few examples exist, making it highly collectible.
- Auction Highlight: An MS67 penny sold for $25,850 in 2017.
1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Proof Penny
This penny features strong doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Why It’s Valuable: Its rarity and dramatic doubling.
- Auction Highlight: A PF67 cameo example sold for $3,220.
1970-S Small Date Penny
The 1970-S penny is known for its small date variety, which is rarer than the large date.
- Why It’s Valuable: Its scarcity and demand among collectors.
- Auction Highlight: A PF69 deep cameo penny sold for $18,400.
1960-D Over D Small Date Over Large Date Penny
This fascinating error coin features a repunched mintmark and overstruck dates.
- Why It’s Valuable: Its unique double minting process and rarity.
- Auction Highlight: An MS66 example sold for $4,025.
FAQs
What makes a Lincoln penny valuable?
Rarity, mint errors, and high-grade condition.
How can I spot a doubled die penny?
Look for visible doubling on text or design elements.
What is a Wide AM penny?
A coin with a noticeable gap between ‘A’ and ‘M’ in ‘AMERICA’.
Why are 1970-S pennies sought after?
The small date variety is rare and valuable.
Are circulated Lincoln pennies worth collecting?
Yes, especially if they have errors or rare designs.