The 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof is a special edition coin minted at the San Francisco Mint, included in the 1980 United States Proof Set. This set, composed of six coins, gained attention primarily for the debut of the Susan B. Anthony Dollar, though it also features the distinct Lincoln Memorial Cent Proof.
Originally sold for $10 per set (equivalent to about $46.22 in today’s dollars), the set’s current market value remains below its initial cost, highlighting the challenges collectors face with modern Proof sets.
Coin Value Overview
| Condition/Category | Value Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original 1980 Proof Set (Full Set) | $6 to $8 | Dependent on packaging condition |
| Unimpaired 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof | $2 to $3 | Loose coin, standard grade |
| Certified PR69 (Proof 69) | Under $10 | Not typically profitable due to grading costs |
| Certified PR70 (Proof 70) | $500 to $600 (estimated by 2026) | High-grade, but value may decline with supply |
Historical Sales and Population Trends
- High-Grade Decline: The population of PR70DCAM (Deep Cameo) coins has risen steadily. For instance, the PCGS PR70DCAM population doubled from 16 to 32 over 15 years, then doubled again in under six years. This influx has contributed to price drops.
- Significant Auctions: Early PR70 sales reached as high as $3,565. Recent sales reflect significant depreciation:
- GreatCollections, June 2024: $873
- Heritage Auctions, April 2023: $360 (haze present)
- Heritage Auctions, September 2022: $2,257.88
Design Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Obverse | Portrait of Abraham Lincoln by Victor David Brenner; S mintmark below the date; “IN GOD WE TRUST” above |
| Reverse | Lincoln Memorial design by Frank Gasparro; “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM” inscriptions |
| Edge | Plain (smooth) |
Coin Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Year of Issue | 1980 |
| Mintmark | S (San Francisco) |
| Mintage | 3,554,806 |
| Composition | 95% Copper, 5% Zinc |
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Edge | Plain |
| Obverse Designer | Victor David Brenner |
| Reverse Designer | Frank Gasparro |
Collecting Insights
While the 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof remains an attractive piece for collectors due to its historical significance and design, its value is strongly influenced by condition and certification level. Proof 70 coins hold the most value but may continue to decrease as the population grows. Collectors should assess coins carefully for surface quality, and consider maintaining them in original government packaging for long-term preservation.
FAQ: 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof Collector’s Guide
1. What is the 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof?
The 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof is a special coin minted at the San Francisco Mint and included in the 1980 United States Proof Set. It features a high-quality, mirror-like finish, making it a desirable collectible.
2. How much is the 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof worth today?
- Unimpaired Proof (loose): Approximately $2 to $3.
- Proof Set (full set): Typically sells for $6 to $8.
- Certified PR69: Generally under $10 due to grading costs.
- Certified PR70: Currently ranges between $500 and $600, though values are declining as more PR70s enter the market.
3. Why has the value of PR70 coins decreased over time?
The decrease in value is primarily due to the increasing population of PR70-graded coins. As more high-grade examples become available, the scarcity diminishes, driving prices down.
4. What factors affect the value of a 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof?
- Condition: PR70 coins command the highest prices, while lower grades like PR69 are less valuable.
- Surface Quality: Issues like hazing or copper spots reduce value.
- Original Packaging: Coins in their original government packaging retain more collector interest.
5. How many 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proofs were minted?
The total mintage was 3,554,806 coins, all produced at the San Francisco Mint.
6. What makes the 1980 Proof Set notable?
The set is known for including the Susan B. Anthony Dollar, which was introduced in 1979. However, its historical underperformance in the collector’s market makes it less valuable today.
7. How can I identify a PR70-graded coin?
A PR70 coin will have a flawless surface, perfect mirror-like fields, and no visible imperfections under magnification. These are certified by grading services such as PCGS or NGC.
8. What is the composition of the 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof?
It consists of 95% copper and 5% zinc, weighing 3.11 grams.
9. Who designed the 1980-S Lincoln Cent?
- Obverse: Victor David Brenner, featuring Abraham Lincoln.
- Reverse: Frank Gasparro, depicting the Lincoln Memorial.
10. Should I collect the 1980-S Lincoln Cent Proof individually or as part of the set?
While individual coins may hold slight value, collectors often prefer sets in their original government packaging. However, if aiming for profit, focus on PR70-graded examples.