If you’re a fan of Abraham Lincoln and penny collecting, you’re in for a treat. Lincoln Memorial Pennies have been in circulation since 1959, with some fetching thousands of dollars today due to their rarity or errors. Let’s look into the most valuable Lincoln Memorial Pennies, their unique features, and what makes them worth hunting down.
Table of Contents
1983-D Bronze Penny
In 1983, the U.S. Mint shifted from copper pennies to zinc-core pennies, making any remaining bronze coins from that year incredibly rare. One standout is the 1983-D bronze penny, a transitional error coin highly sought after by collectors. These coins, especially in mint condition with an MS67 grade, can command a price of around $1,400.
1969 Doubled Die Penny
One of the rarest finds is the 1969 Lincoln Memorial Penny with a doubled die error. The doubling is visible around “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” With only a few dozen known to exist, these coins are incredibly valuable. In 2005, a specimen graded MS64 sold for $126,500 at auction.
1981-S Type II Proof Penny
Mint marks distinguish the 1981-S Type II Proof Lincoln Penny. The sharper “S” makes it more collectible than the Type I version. These proof coins, with grades like PF68, sell for $900 to $1,200.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
The 1983 doubled die reverse penny shows clear doubling around “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and “ONE CENT.” Mint state examples can fetch hefty sums, with one graded MS68 selling for $7,050.
1979-S Type II Proof Penny
Similar to the 1981 version, the 1979-S Type II penny features a clearer “S” mint mark. This proof coin, scarce in high grades, has reached $4,000 in auction sales.
1998 Wide AM Penny
The 1998 Wide AM penny is an accidental blend of a business strike obverse with a proof reverse die. Look for a distinct gap between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.” High-grade versions sell for $5,000 or more.
1992 Close AM Penny
In contrast to the Wide AM, the 1992 Close AM penny features narrowly spaced letters in “AMERICA.” This transitional error is extremely rare, with one MS67 example selling for $25,850 at a Heritage Auction.
1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny
The 1971-S proof penny exhibits noticeable doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Coins with strong doubling and cameo finishes can sell for around $3,220.
1970-S Small Date Penny
The 1970-S Small Date penny differs from its Large Date counterpart in numeral alignment. It’s a coveted piece, and a PF69 Deep Cameo version once sold for $18,400.
1960-D Over D Small Date Penny
This fascinating coin displays a repunched mint mark and a small date struck over a large date. Mint state coins graded MS66 have reached $4,025 in value.
Lincoln Memorial Pennies offer something for every collector, whether you’re after transitional errors or rare proofs. Start hunting—you never know what treasures could be hiding in your pocket change!
FAQs
What is a 1983-D bronze penny worth?
A 1983-D bronze penny can fetch $1,400 in mint condition.
How rare is the 1969 doubled die penny?
Only a few dozen exist, making it extremely rare.
What’s special about the 1998 Wide AM penny?
It has a proof reverse die with a wide AM in ‘AMERICA’.
How do you spot a 1970-S Small Date penny?
The 7 aligns with the other date numbers on Small Date coins.
Why is the 1992 Close AM penny valuable?
It’s a rare transitional error with narrowly spaced AM in ‘AMERICA’.
