Since their introduction in 1909 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, Lincoln Memorial pennies have become an iconic part of American coinage. With the Lincoln Memorial design featured on the reverse side from 1959 to 2008, these pennies hold special significance for collectors. While most Lincoln Memorial pennies are worth only their face value, certain rare mint-condition coins and those with errors can fetch impressive sums. If you’re a collector, here’s a look at some of the most valuable Lincoln Memorial pennies you might want to add to your collection.
1983-D Bronze Penny – $1,400
The 1983-D penny is exceptional due to its unique error. It was intended to feature a zinc core, but a few bronze versions were mistakenly struck. These bronze pennies, especially those in pristine condition (graded MS67 or higher), can sell for as much as $1,400 due to their rarity.
1969 Doubled Die Penny – $126,500
The 1969 Lincoln penny with a doubled die error is one of the most sought-after coins among collectors. This error causes the features on the coin, particularly “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” to appear doubled. In 2005, a high-grade example of this penny fetched an incredible $126,500.
1981-S Type II Proof Penny – $900–$1,200
The 1981-S Type II proof penny is distinguished by a sharp and clear “S” mint mark, unlike the blurry Type I version. This particular variation of the coin is rare, and examples graded PF68 can be worth between $900 and $1,200.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny – $7,050
Another valuable Lincoln penny is the 1983 doubled die reverse penny, which features strong doubling on the reverse side, particularly on “ONE CENT” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” A high-grade example of this coin (MS68) has been sold for as much as $7,050.
1979-S Type II Proof Penny – $4,000
The 1979-S Type II proof penny is notable for its clear, crisp “S” mint mark, which makes it much rarer than the Type I version. High-grade examples of this penny have been known to fetch around $4,000 at auction.
1998 Wide AM Penny – $5,000
The 1998 Wide AM penny is another error coin that collectors covet. This coin features a wider spacing between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA,” which occurred when a proof die was mistakenly used for circulation coins. In mint condition, these pennies can command prices of $5,000 or more.
1992 Close AM Penny – $25,850
The 1992 Close AM penny is one of the rarest errors in Lincoln Memorial penny history. This coin was struck with a “Close AM” design that was meant for 1993. Only a handful of these coins exist, making them extremely valuable. A high-grade example sold for $25,850 in 2017.
1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny – $3,220
The 1971-S Doubled Die Obverse penny features visible doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” These doubled features can often be seen without a magnifying glass. A high-grade example of this penny was sold for $3,220 in 2005.
1970-S Small Date Penny – $18,400
The 1970-S Small Date penny is highly prized for its rarity. The small date variant is easily recognizable by the alignment of the “7” with the other digits. A PF69 Deep Cameo version of this penny recently sold for a remarkable $18,400.
1960-D Over D Penny – $4,025
The 1960-D Over D penny is a rare error in which the mint mark “D” was struck twice, causing the second mint mark to be slightly off-center. Additionally, the penny was struck with a small date over a large date. A high-grade MS66 example of this coin sold for $4,025 in 2008.
What Makes a Lincoln Memorial Penny Valuable?
Several factors contribute to the value of a Lincoln Memorial penny:
Mint Errors:
Mistakes such as doubled dies, repunched dates, and design anomalies can make a coin much more valuable.
Condition:
Coins in mint state or with proof-like finishes are often worth more than those that are heavily circulated.
Rarity:
Coins with limited production numbers or transitional errors tend to be more rare and therefore more valuable.
Collecting Lincoln Memorial pennies is an exciting way to delve into American coinage history. Whether you’re searching for rare error coins or pristine proof examples, these pennies offer a fascinating and valuable pursuit.
FAQs
Which Lincoln penny is the most valuable? The 1969 Doubled Die penny is the most valuable, with a price of $126,500.
What is a doubled die penny? A doubled die penny is one that has doubled features due to a minting error with the die.
How can I identify a valuable Lincoln penny? Look for coins with minting 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 Wide AM penny features more space between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse, caused by a proof die error.
