If you love Abraham Lincoln and his iconic image on pennies, you’re in for a treat. Since their introduction in 1909 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth, Lincoln cents have captured the hearts of collectors. The Lincoln Memorial design (1959–2008) on the reverse has made these coins even more iconic.
While most used Lincoln Memorial pennies are worth their face value, mint-condition and error coins can fetch hundreds, even thousands, of dollars. Let’s cut into the most valuable Lincoln Memorial pennies that you should add to your collection.
Table of Contents
- 1 1983-D Bronze Penny – $1,400
- 2 1969 Doubled Die Penny – $126,500
- 3 1981-S Type II Proof Penny – $900–$1,200
- 4 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny – $7,050
- 5 1979-S Type II Proof Penny – $4,000
- 6 1998 Wide AM Penny – $5,000
- 7 1992 Close AM Penny – $25,850
- 8 1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny – $3,220
- 9 1970-S Small Date Penny – $18,400
- 10 1960-D Over D Penny – $4,025
- 11 FAQs
1983-D Bronze Penny – $1,400
The 1983-D penny is unique because it marked a transition from copper to zinc cores due to rising copper prices. This bronze version was a minting error and is incredibly rare in pristine condition. Coins graded MS67 or higher can sell for $1,400 or more.
1969 Doubled Die Penny – $126,500
The 1969 Lincoln penny with a doubled die error is one of the rarest and most valuable. The doubling is especially prominent on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” In 2005, a mint-condition MS64 example sold for an astounding $126,500.
1981-S Type II Proof Penny – $900–$1,200
The 1981-S Type II proof penny features a sharp and clear “S” mint mark, unlike the blurry Type I. These proof coins are highly sought after, with PF68 examples valued at $900 to $1,200.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny – $7,050
The 1983 penny with a doubled die on the reverse is notable for the strong doubling on “ONE CENT” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” A high-grade MS68 example was sold for $7,050, making it one of the most valuable Lincoln Memorial pennies.
1979-S Type II Proof Penny – $4,000
This proof penny features a crisp and legible “S” mint mark, making it rarer than its Type I counterpart. The scarcity and appeal of this coin have driven its value to $4,000 for high-grade examples.
1998 Wide AM Penny – $5,000
This penny features a reverse design with a wider spacing between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA,” an error caused by using a proof die on circulation coins. High-grade examples in MS67 or higher can command prices of $5,000 or more.
1992 Close AM Penny – $25,850
In 1992, a transitional error resulted in some pennies having a “Close AM” design intended for 1993. Only a few examples exist, making this one of the rarest Lincoln pennies. In 2017, a high-grade MS67 example sold for $25,850.
1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny – $3,220
This penny features doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” visible to the naked eye. Deep cameo examples are especially valuable, with a PF67 example selling for $3,220 in 2005.
1970-S Small Date Penny – $18,400
The 1970-S penny with a small date is another collector’s favorite. The easiest way to identify it is the alignment of the “7” with the other digits in the date. A PF69 Deep Cameo example sold for $18,400, showcasing its rarity and demand.
1960-D Over D Penny – $4,025
This penny features a rare error where the “D” mint mark was punched twice in slightly different positions, along with a small date punched over a large date. A well-preserved MS66 example sold for $4,025 in 2008.
What Makes a Lincoln Memorial Penny Valuable?
- Mint Errors: Mistakes like doubled dies, repunched dates, or design anomalies are highly prized.
- Condition: Coins in mint state or with cameo proof finishes fetch higher prices.
- Rarity: Limited production or transitional errors make certain pennies scarce and valuable.
Collecting Lincoln Memorial pennies is a fascinating journey through history and craftsmanship. Whether you’re after error coins or pristine proofs, these pennies are timeless treasures worth hunting for.
FAQs
Which Lincoln penny is the most valuable?
The 1969 doubled die penny, valued at $126,500, is the most valuable.
What is a doubled die penny?
It’s a coin with doubled features caused by a die error during minting.
How can I identify a valuable Lincoln penny?
Look for mint errors, rare dates, or proof coins in excellent condition.
Are circulated pennies worth collecting?
Yes, especially if they have errors or are rare transitional designs.
What is a Wide AM penny?
A penny with wider spacing between the A and M in ‘AMERICA’ on the reverse.
