If you’re a collector or enthusiast of Lincoln Memorial Pennies, you’re in for a thrilling adventure. Since 1959, these pennies have circulated through the U.S., with some rare or error-filled ones now fetching impressive sums. Below, we dive into the top 10 Lincoln Memorial Pennies that are worth seeking out—and could make you a fortune.
1. 1983-D Bronze Penny
In 1983, the U.S. Mint transitioned from copper to zinc-core pennies. However, a few bronze pennies from this year were mistakenly minted, creating an extremely rare error coin. Among these, the 1983-D bronze penny is a standout. High-grade specimens in MS67 condition have sold for approximately $1,400, making this one of the most valuable pennies from the era.
2. 1969 Doubled Die Penny
The 1969 Lincoln Memorial Penny with a doubled die error is one of the rarest and most desirable coins for collectors. The doubling is noticeable around “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” With only a handful of these coins existing, they’re highly sought after. In 2005, an MS64 example fetched $126,500 at auction, highlighting its tremendous value.
3. 1981-S Type II Proof Penny
The 1981-S Type II Proof penny stands out due to its sharper “S” mint mark, which sets it apart from the Type I version. In high-grade proof conditions, these pennies can sell for $900 to $1,200, making them highly collectible among numismatists.
4. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
Another notable error coin is the 1983 Doubled Die Reverse penny, which exhibits clear doubling on the reverse, particularly around “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and “ONE CENT.” Well-preserved specimens, such as those graded MS68, have been sold for as much as $7,050, showcasing their high market demand.
5. 1979-S Type II Proof Penny
Much like the 1981-S Type II penny, the 1979-S Type II proof penny features a sharper “S” mint mark. This coin is rare, especially in high grades, with some fetching up to $4,000 at auction.
6. 1998 Wide AM Penny
The 1998 Wide AM penny is a fascinating transitional error coin. It resulted from the use of a proof reverse die with a business strike obverse, creating a noticeable gap between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.” High-quality examples of this penny can be worth $5,000 or more.
7. 1992 Close AM Penny
In contrast to the 1998 Wide AM, the 1992 Close AM penny features closely spaced “A” and “M” letters in “AMERICA.” This transitional error is extremely rare, and one specimen graded MS67 was sold for $25,850 at a Heritage Auction.
8. 1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny
The 1971-S Doubled Die Obverse penny is another valuable coin with noticeable doubling on the obverse, particularly around “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Coins with a strong doubling and cameo finish can sell for around $3,220, making this a prized find for collectors.
9. 1970-S Small Date Penny
The 1970-S Small Date penny is distinct from its Large Date counterpart in the alignment of the numerals. As a result, it’s a coveted piece, with high-grade proof examples like the PF69 Deep Cameo reaching prices as high as $18,400 at auction.
10. 1960-D Over D Small Date Penny
This fascinating coin features a repunched mint mark and a small date struck over a large date. It’s a highly sought-after error, and specimens graded MS66 have sold for as much as $4,025, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
Conclusion
Lincoln Memorial Pennies are more than just pocket change—they can be treasures waiting to be discovered. From transitional errors to rare proofs, these coins offer something for every collector. Keep your eyes peeled next time you handle change—you may just find a penny worth a small fortune!
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) for the article on valuable Lincoln Memorial Pennies:
1. What makes a Lincoln Memorial Penny valuable?
The value of a Lincoln Memorial Penny is determined by factors such as rarity, condition, and errors. Pennies with minting errors, such as doubled dies or misaligned strikes, are typically more valuable than regular coins. Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition also command higher prices.
2. What is the most valuable Lincoln Memorial Penny?
The 1969 Doubled Die Penny is considered one of the most valuable Lincoln Memorial Pennies. This coin features noticeable doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and can sell for over $100,000 in top condition.
3. How do I know if my 1983 penny is a bronze version?
The 1983-D Bronze Penny is rare because it was mistakenly made from copper before the U.S. Mint switched to zinc-core pennies. To identify this, you can check the weight and composition of the penny. A bronze penny from 1983 will be heavier and have a distinct copper color compared to the regular zinc pennies.
4. What is a doubled die penny?
A doubled die penny is one where the design elements on the coin (such as the lettering or images) appear twice due to an error during the minting process. These errors happen when the coin die strikes the planchet (blank coin) multiple times, creating a doubled image.
5. Why is the 1992 Close AM penny valuable?
The 1992 Close AM penny is a transitional error that occurred when the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” were struck too closely together. This is a rare error, and high-grade specimens can be worth thousands of dollars.
6. How can I tell if my 1983 penny has a doubled die reverse?
The 1983 Doubled Die Reverse penny features clear doubling around the reverse design, specifically in areas like “E PLURIBUS UNUM” and “ONE CENT.” The best way to identify this is by using magnification to closely inspect the text for any visible doubling.
7. Are all 1981-S Type II Proof Pennies valuable?
Not all 1981-S Type II Proof Pennies are valuable, but those in high grades with clear details and sharp mint marks are more sought after by collectors. These coins typically sell for $900 to $1,200 in top condition.
8. How can I sell my rare Lincoln Memorial Penny?
You can sell rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies through online marketplaces, coin dealers, or at auctions. It’s important to have your coin professionally graded and authenticated to ensure you get the best price.
9. What is the condition required for a coin to be valuable?
The condition of a coin is typically graded using the Sheldon scale, which ranges from 1 (poor) to 70 (mint state). Coins in higher grades, especially those that are uncirculated or have proof finishes, are generally worth more.
10. How do I get my penny authenticated?
You can have your penny authenticated by a professional grading service, such as the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). These organizations evaluate the coin’s authenticity, grade, and overall condition, which helps determine its value.
By understanding these aspects, you can better appreciate and potentially profit from collecting rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies.