If you’re a fan of Abraham Lincoln and want to start collecting pennies with his image, you’re in for a treat. Lincoln cents have been a collector favorite since they debuted in 1909 to honor the 100th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth.
While most Lincoln Memorial pennies are only worth their face value, certain rare and high-grade examples can fetch hundreds, even thousands of dollars.
Let’s look into the most valuable Lincoln Memorial pennies and what makes them so special.
Table of Contents
- 1 1983-D Bronze Lincoln Penny
- 2 1969 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
- 3 1981-S Type II Proof Lincoln Penny
- 4 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
- 5 1979-S Type II Proof Penny
- 6 1998 Wide AM Penny
- 7 1992 Close AM Penny
- 8 1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Proof Penny
- 9 1970-S Small Date Penny
- 10 1960-D Over D Small Date Over Large Date Penny
- 11 FAQs
1983-D Bronze Lincoln Penny
In 1983, the U.S. Mint transitioned from copper pennies to zinc cores with a copper coating due to rising copper costs. However, a few 1983-D pennies were mistakenly struck on bronze planchets, making them highly valuable.
A red-toned 1983-D bronze penny in MS67 or higher condition can command at least $1,400. This error coin’s rarity and historical significance make it a top target for collectors.
1969 Doubled Die Lincoln Penny
The 1969 doubled die penny is one of the most famous Lincoln Memorial penny errors. This penny features dramatic doubling, especially visible in the words LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST.
Only a few dozen of these error pennies are known to exist. One graded MS64 sold for a jaw-dropping $126,500 at auction in 2005. If you happen to find one with strong doubling, you’re looking at a real treasure.
1981-S Type II Proof Lincoln Penny
The 1981-S Type II Proof Lincoln penny is distinguished by a sharper, clearer “S” mint mark compared to the earlier Type I version. This change resulted from new minting processes to improve the clarity of the mint mark.
With only 1 in 10 pennies from 1981 minted as Type II, they are quite rare. Examples graded PF68 or higher are worth between $900 and $1,200.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
Not all doubled die pennies are created equal, and the 1983 doubled die reverse penny is one of the best examples. The doubling is most visible in the words E PLURIBUS UNUM, ONE CENT, and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
A specimen graded MS68 sold for $7,050, making it one of the most valuable error coins from the Lincoln Memorial series.
1979-S Type II Proof Penny
In 1979, the San Francisco Mint produced two types of proof pennies: Type I, with a rounded “S” mint mark, and Type II, with a more distinct, clear “S”.
Type II proofs were minted in smaller quantities, making them more desirable. A 1979-S Type II Proof Lincoln penny graded PF69 Deep Cameo sold for $4,000 at auction.
1998 Wide AM Penny
The 1998 Wide AM penny is a fascinating error caused by the accidental use of a proof die on regular circulation strikes. On these coins, the letters A and M in AMERICA are clearly separated, unlike the closer letters on typical business strikes from that period.
High-grade Wide AM pennies are rare. An MS67 or higher specimen can fetch up to $5,000.
1992 Close AM Penny
The 1992 Close AM penny is the result of an unintended die transition. The letters A and M in AMERICA are close together, resembling the design used on later 1993 pennies.
There are only a handful of known examples, making this one of the rarest Lincoln Memorial pennies. A 1992 Close AM penny graded MS67 Red sold for $25,850 at a Heritage Auction in 2017.
1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Proof Penny
The 1971-S proof penny features two types of doubling: one weak and one strong. The more valuable variety has strong, visible doubling in the words LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST.
A PF67 cameo example sold for $3,220 in 2005. Deep cameo specimens are especially desirable among collectors.
1970-S Small Date Penny
In 1970, the San Francisco Mint produced Lincoln pennies with both small and large date varieties. The Small Date penny is much rarer and easily identifiable because the 7 in the date aligns with the top of the other numbers, unlike the Large Date version.
The most valuable 1970-S Small Date penny sold for $18,400, graded PF69 Deep Cameo. If you spot a small date in your collection, it might be worth a closer look!
1960-D Over D Small Date Over Large Date Penny
The 1960-D over D penny is a fascinating error where the mint mark was repunched, creating a doubled appearance. Additionally, some of these pennies were struck with a small date over a large date, adding to their rarity.
A 1960-D Small Date Over Large Date penny, graded MS66, sold for $4,025 at auction. These unique coins are highly sought after by error coin collectors.
Lincoln Memorial pennies offer more than just historical significance—they provide collectors with opportunities to find hidden gems worth thousands. Keep an eye out for rare dates, mint errors, and high-grade coins in your collection. You never know—you might just uncover a treasure hiding in plain sight!
FAQs
What is the most valuable Lincoln Memorial penny?
The 1969 Doubled Die Lincoln penny sold for $126,500.
How can I tell if I have a valuable penny?
Check for rare dates, errors, and high-grade conditions.
What is a 1992 Close AM penny worth?
A 1992 Close AM penny can be worth up to $25,850.
What is the difference between Type I and Type II proof pennies?
Type II proof pennies have a clearer, sharper mint mark.
Where can I sell my rare pennies?
You can sell rare pennies at auctions, coin dealers, or online.
