The Lincoln Memorial Penny, minted from 1959 to 2008, is a familiar coin for most people, featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and the iconic Lincoln Memorial on the reverse. While these pennies are common, certain varieties are far more valuable than others. From rare minting errors to unique features, some Lincoln Memorial Pennies can be worth a lot more than their face value. Here are 9 valuable Lincoln Memorial Pennies you should know about. 11 Valuable Thomas Jefferson Nickels You Should Know About
1. 1959-D Lincoln Memorial Penny (Doubled Die Obverse)
The 1959-D Lincoln Memorial Penny is one of the most sought-after coins due to a rare error called “Doubled Die Obverse.” This error occurs when the die used to strike the coin was misaligned, resulting in doubled lettering and features on Lincoln’s portrait and inscriptions. Pennies with this error, particularly in high grade, can be worth anywhere from $100 to $1,000 or more, depending on their condition.
2. 1969-S Lincoln Memorial Penny (Doubled Die Obverse)
Another penny with a doubled die error is the 1969-S Lincoln Memorial Penny. This variety is famous for the clear doubling in Lincoln’s eye, the date, and the inscriptions on the obverse. It’s one of the most valuable pennies for collectors. A high-quality 1969-S doubled die penny can fetch upwards of $50,000 or more, depending on its condition.
3. 1970-S Lincoln Memorial Penny (Doubled Die Obverse)
The 1970-S Lincoln Memorial Penny is another example of a rare doubled die error. This coin shows significant doubling in the word “LIBERTY” and the date. While the 1970-S penny is not as famous as the 1969-S variety, it can still be worth up to $500 or more in good condition, with higher values for coins in mint state. https://sportswala.in/pm-vishwakarma-yojana-2/
4. 1983 Copper-Plated Zinc Lincoln Memorial Penny
In 1983, the U.S. Mint switched the composition of the penny from 95% copper to 97.5% zinc, but some copper pennies were mistakenly struck during the transition. The 1983 copper penny, made of 95% copper, is extremely rare. Due to its unusual composition, it is highly valuable to collectors, with some examples reaching up to $10,000 or more if in good condition. Keep an eye out for any 1983 pennies that feel heavier than usual—they could be worth a lot more than face value!
5. 1995 Lincoln Memorial Penny (Doubled Die Obverse)
The 1995 Lincoln Memorial Penny is another example of the doubled die error. While not as rare as some of the others, this penny features noticeable doubling on the date and the inscriptions “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” In high grades, these coins can be worth between $100 and $200, with rarer examples fetching even more.
6. 1984 Double Die Reverse Lincoln Memorial Penny
Unlike the obverse errors, the 1984 Double Die Reverse Lincoln Memorial Penny features doubling on the reverse side of the coin, particularly on the columns of the Lincoln Memorial. This rare error can make a penny worth anywhere from $500 to $2,000, depending on its condition and the severity of the doubling.10 Ultra-Rare Coins Worth Up to $250 Million That Could Instantly Make You a Millionaire
7. 1972 Lincoln Memorial Penny (Doubled Die Obverse)
The 1972 Lincoln Memorial Penny is another coin with a doubled die error, and it’s one of the most well-known in the Lincoln Memorial series. The doubling is noticeable on the date and the inscription “LIBERTY,” making this coin highly desirable. A 1972 doubled die penny in good condition can sell for between $100 and $500 or more.
8. 1960-D Small Date Lincoln Memorial Penny
The 1960-D Small Date Lincoln Memorial Penny is a rare variety where the “0” in the date is smaller than the “0” in the regular 1960 penny. This small date variety is highly collectible, and in good condition, it can be worth up to $500 or more. While it’s not a minting error, its rarity makes it highly sought after by collectors.
9. 1998 Wide AM Lincoln Memorial Penny
The 1998 Wide AM Lincoln Memorial Penny is a coin that features a notable error in the spacing between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse side. The wide spacing is the result of a die error, and this particular variety is a valuable find for collectors. In excellent condition, a 1998 Wide AM penny can be worth up to $1,000, depending on the grade.
Conclusion
Although most Lincoln Memorial Pennies are worth just one cent, the ones listed above are valuable exceptions. Whether it’s a result of a minting error, a rare variety, or an unusual composition, some Lincoln Memorial Pennies can be worth thousands of dollars. If you have any of these rare pennies in your collection or come across one in your change, you might be holding onto a valuable treasure. Always check for signs of errors or unusual features, and don’t forget that the rarity and condition of a coin can greatly affect its value. Happy hunting!