Lincoln Memorial Penny Value
1959-2008 · 1¢ · 95% copper (1959-1982), copper-plated zinc (1982-2008)
Value by Grade
| Grade | Est. Value |
|---|---|
| Poor (P-1) | $0.01 |
| Good (G-4) | $0.02 |
| Fine (F-12) | $0.05 |
| Uncirculated (MS-63) | $0.50 |
| Gem (MS-65) | $1.50 |
| Perfect (MS-70) | $7.50 |
Key Dates & Rare Varieties
| Date/Variety | Why It's Special | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1969-S | Doubled die obverse, one of the most dramatic Lincoln errors | $25,000–$100,000 |
| 1972 | Doubled die obverse with strong doubling visible to naked eye | $300–$2,500 |
| 1983 | Doubled die reverse with prominent doubling on UNITED STATES | $200–$500 |
| 1992-D | Close AM variety where A and M in AMERICA nearly touch | $200–$1,000 |
| 1959-D | First year of issue from Denver, high collector interest | $0.10–$5 |
Coin Specifications
- Designer
- Frank Gasparro
- Years
- 1959-2008
- Denomination
- 1¢
- Composition
- 95% copper (1959-1982), copper-plated zinc (1982-2008)
- Diameter
- 19 mm
- Weight
- 3.11 g
Quick Value
Where to Buy/Sell
Lincoln Memorial Penny: History & Background
The Lincoln Memorial Penny replaced the Wheat Ears reverse in 1959 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. Frank Gasparro designed the new reverse featuring the Lincoln Memorial, and a tiny seated Lincoln statue is visible between the columns. The composition transitioned from solid copper-alloy to copper-plated zinc in 1982, with both versions produced that year. Billions were struck over the series' 50-year run, making most dates common, though varieties like the 1969-S and 1972 doubled dies remain highly sought after.
How to Grade a Lincoln Memorial Penny
Accurate grading is the single most important factor in determining a coin's value. A difference of just a few grade points can mean 10× or more in value. Examine the highest points of the design first — these are where wear appears earliest. For the finest grades, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation all matter. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC adds certainty and typically increases resale value. Read our complete grading guide →
What Affects Lincoln Memorial Penny Value?
Condition & Grade
The grade spread for Lincoln Memorial Pennys is dramatic: a common-date example jumps from $0.01 in Poor to $0.50 in Uncirculated — a 50× increase. Gem-quality MS-65 specimens can reach $1.50 or more. Even a single grade point difference at the upper end can double a coin's price.
Date & Mintmark
The Lincoln Memorial Penny series has 5 notable key dates. The 1969-S is valued at $25,000–$100,000, far above common dates. Mintmark location and variety (such as overdates or repunched marks) can multiply a coin's value significantly.
Collector Demand
As a 95% copper (1959-1982), copper-plated zinc (1982-2008) coin, the Lincoln Memorial Penny derives its value entirely from collector demand rather than metal content. This makes condition and rarity even more important — heavily worn common dates may trade near face value, while key dates and high-grade examples command strong premiums.
Strike Quality & Eye Appeal
Designed by Frank Gasparro, the Lincoln Memorial Penny (19mm diameter) can exhibit varying strike quality across different mint facilities and years. Coins with full, sharp design details, original luster, and attractive toning trade at premiums of 20–50% above the same technical grade with average eye appeal.
Collector Notes: Lincoln Memorial Penny
The Lincoln Memorial Penny (1959-2008) holds a distinctive place in US numismatics. Designed by Frank Gasparro, this 1¢ coin was struck in 95% copper (1959-1982), copper-plated zinc (1982-2008) with a diameter of 19mm and weight of 3.11 grams. These physical specifications are essential for authentication — any deviation from these measurements is a red flag for counterfeits.
Collectors approaching the Lincoln Memorial Penny series should start by assembling a date-and-mintmark set in a consistent grade. Fine (F-12) offers a good balance of affordability and visual appeal for most dates, with clear design elements still visible. Budget roughly $0.05 per common date in Fine condition, then set aside a larger budget for the 5 key dates in the series.
For registry set collectors pursuing top grades, the Lincoln Memorial Penny in MS-65 or better represents a more significant investment at $1.50+ per coin. Population reports from PCGS and NGC show that the supply of certified high-grade examples is limited, and competition among registry set collectors has driven premiums for condition-census coins.
Before purchasing any Lincoln Memorial Penny valued above $100, we recommend reviewing our 2026 US Coin Values Quick Reference PDF ($2.99) which includes a complete grade-by-grade price breakdown and key date identification guide for this series.
Lincoln Memorial Penny: Frequently Asked Questions
▶How much is a Lincoln Memorial Penny worth today?
A Lincoln Memorial Penny (1959-2008) is worth between $0.01 in Poor condition and $0.50 or more in Uncirculated condition. In the most commonly found Fine grade, expect around $0.05. Gem specimens graded MS-65 can reach $1.50 or higher. Values fluctuate with collector demand.
▶What is the most valuable Lincoln Memorial Penny?
The most valuable Lincoln Memorial Penny is the 1969-S — doubled die obverse, one of the most dramatic lincoln errors. This date is valued at $25,000–$100,000 depending on grade and condition. Always have potentially valuable dates authenticated by PCGS or NGC before selling.
▶How do I grade a Lincoln Memorial Penny?
Grading a Lincoln Memorial Penny starts with examining the highest points of the design, where wear appears first. Look for remaining luster, sharpness of details, and surface marks. The Sheldon scale runs from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect). For this series, the jump from Fine (F-12, worth ~$0.05) to Uncirculated (MS-63, worth ~$0.50) is significant. Professional grading by PCGS or NGC costs $20–$50 per coin and is recommended for coins that appear to be worth $100 or more. Our PDF guide ($2.99) includes a visual grading chart for this series.
▶Where is the best place to sell Lincoln Memorial Pennys?
For common-date Lincoln Memorial Pennys in circulated grades, local coin shops and eBay are practical options — expect 70–85% of retail value. For key dates or high-grade examples, Heritage Auctions or Stack's Bowers will reach the most serious buyers and typically achieve the strongest prices. PCGS or NGC certification is essential before consigning valuable coins to auction. For a detailed selling strategy, see our selling guide.
▶Are there error varieties of the Lincoln Memorial Penny?
Yes. Known Lincoln Memorial Penny errors include doubled die obverses and reverses, repunched mintmarks, off-center strikes, and die cracks. This series has notable varieties such as the 1969-S. Always examine coins under magnification to check for die doubling, especially on lettering and dates.
▶How can I tell if my Lincoln Memorial Penny is real?
Authentic Lincoln Memorial Pennys weigh 3.11 grams and measure 19 mm in diameter. Check the weight with a precision scale (digital scales accurate to 0.01g are available for under $20). The coin should be composed of 95% copper (1959-1982), copper-plated zinc (1982-2008). Counterfeit coins often fail the weight test, show seams on the edge, or have mushy design details. For valuable dates, always obtain PCGS or NGC authentication — the cost is minimal compared to the risk of buying or selling a counterfeit.
▶What affects the value of a Lincoln Memorial Penny the most?
The four biggest value drivers for Lincoln Memorial Pennys are: (1) Grade — the difference between Good and Uncirculated is $0.48 for common dates; (2) Date and mintmark — key dates like 1969-S command large premiums; (3) Eye appeal — original surfaces, attractive toning, and strong strikes increase desirability among collectors.
▶How many Lincoln Memorial Pennys were made?
The Lincoln Memorial Penny was produced from 1959-2008. Mintage varied widely by year and mint — some dates had millions struck while key dates had far fewer. The scarce 1969-S is especially sought after. Check our full value table above for key dates and their relative scarcity.
▶Should I clean my Lincoln Memorial Penny?
Never clean a Lincoln Memorial Penny or any collectible coin. Cleaning removes the original surface and patina, which collectors prize — a cleaned coin can lose 50% or more of its value compared to an original, naturally toned example. Even coins that look "dirty" often have desirable original toning. If you must remove loose debris, hold the coin by its edges and gently rinse with distilled water. Our coin storage guide has more preservation tips.
▶Is the Lincoln Memorial Penny a good investment?
Lincoln Memorial Pennys in key dates and high grades have historically appreciated well. Common dates in circulated grades are affordable entry points. For investment purposes, focus on PCGS/NGC-certified examples in grades of Fine or better, and prioritize key dates with low mintages. Our PDF Quick Reference Guide ($2.99) covers all Lincoln Memorial Penny dates and values to help identify the best opportunities.