Are you a fan of Abraham Lincoln and interested in collecting pennies featuring the iconic president?
Lincoln pennies have been widely minted since 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth. Over the years, their design has evolved, with the Lincoln Memorial penny (1959–2008) featuring the famous Lincoln Memorial on the reverse.
While most circulated Lincoln Memorial pennies hold only their face value, those in mint state can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Identifying valuable Lincoln Memorial pennies can be challenging if you don’t know what to look for. This guide will help you spot rare and valuable coins to enhance your collection.
Let’s dive in!
Rare Lincoln Penny Worth Money List (Quick Chart)
| Lincoln Penny Year | Lincoln Penny Error Type | Lincoln Penny Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1959 | D Mule Lincoln Penny | $31,050 |
| 1960 | Small Over Large Date Lincoln Penny | $8,500 |
| 1961 | Re-Punched Mint Mark Lincoln Penny | $228 |
| 1962 | D Lincoln Penny, Struck Fragment | $1,000 |
| 1963 | D Lincoln Penny, Double Die Obverse | $209 |
| 1964 | No Mint Mark Lincoln Penny Struck On Clad Dime Planchet | $5,750 |
| 1965 | Broadstruck Wheel Mark Lincoln Penny | $1,800 |
| 1966 | Double Strike With Or Without Die Adjustment Lincoln Penny | $11,500 |
| 1967 | Double/Triple Strike Lincoln Penny | $900 |
| 1968 | DDR And DDO Lincoln Penny | $285 |
| 1969 | S Double Die Obverse Lincoln Penny | $126,500.00 |
| 1970 | S LD DDO Lincoln Penny Business Strike FS-101 | $24,150 |
| 1971 | DDO Lincoln Penny | $14,950 |
| 1972 | Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny | $14,400.00 |
| 1973 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100.00 |
| 1974 | S Lincoln Penny With A Die Break | $184 |
| 1975 | Fold-Over Lincoln Penny | $1,495 |
| 1976 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $230 |
| 1977 | Double-Punched Mint Mark Lincoln Penny | $15 |
| 1978 | Struck On A Dime–Double Denomination Lincoln Penny | $1,035 |
| 1979 | D Lincoln Penny Struck On A Dime Planchet | $1,260 |
| 1980 | Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny | $715 |
| 1981 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $900.00 |
| 1982 | Double Die Lincoln Penny | $200 |
| 1983 | Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Penny | $7,050 |
| 1984 | Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny | $3,900 |
| 1985 | No Mint Mark Lincoln Penny, Partial Plating | $550 |
| 1986 | Wide AM Lincoln Penny | $260 |
| 1987 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $150 |
| 1988 | Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny | $3,120 |
| 1989 | Struck On A Copper Planchet Lincoln Penny | $7,500 |
| 1990 | No-S Proof Lincoln Penny | $8,813 |
| 1991 | Die Chip Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 1992 | Wide And Close AM Lincoln Penny | $5,000 |
| 1993 | D Lincoln Penny, Roosevelt Dime Reverse | $51,000 |
| 1994 | DDR Lincoln Penny | $2,050.00 |
| 1995 | No Mint Mark Lincoln Penny, Double Die Obverse | $5,000 |
| 1996 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 1997 | Missed Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 1998 | Close AM Lincoln Penny | $4,500 |
| 1999 | Doubled- Die Lincoln Penny | $5,400 |
| 2000 | Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | $50 |
| 2001 | Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | $50 |
| 2002 | Off-Center Error Lincoln Penny | $150 |
| 2003 | Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | $50 |
| 2004 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2005 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2006 | Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2007 | off-center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2008 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2009 | Doubled Die Reverse Lincoln Penny | $50 |
| 2010 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2011 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2012 | Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | $125 |
| 2013 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2014 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2015 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2016 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2017 | Doubled Die Lincoln Penny | $70 |
| 2018 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2019 | doubled die Lincoln Penny | $50 |
| 2020 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $150 |
| 2021 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2022 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
| 2023 | Off-Center Lincoln Penny | $100 |
Top 10+ Most Valuable Lincoln Penny Worth Money
1. 1983-D Bronze Lincoln Penny – $1,400
Due to rising copper prices and a growing shortage of the metal, the U.S. Mint switched from copper pennies to zinc-core pennies in 1983.
The last 95% copper pennies were minted in 1982, making the new zinc pennies with a copper coating a notable transition. As a result, collectors hoarded these coins in large numbers.
Among these, the 1983-D bronze penny stands out as one of the most valuable Lincoln Memorial pennies due to its transitional nature. It is particularly scarce in mint state (MS67 and higher), making it a prized find for collectors.
A red 1983-D bronze penny in mint condition can fetch at least $1,400 at auction.
2. 1969- Doubled Die Lincoln Penny – $126,500
The 1969 Lincoln Memorial penny with a doubled die error is an extremely rare find. Interestingly, collectors only discovered these error coins in the 1990s, nearly thirty years after they were first minted.
What makes this penny particularly desirable is the clear doubling, which is visible to the naked eye. The most prominent doubling appears on LIBERTY and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST”, adding to its collector appeal.
Only a few dozen of these error pennies are known to exist, but in recent years, some mint-state specimens have surfaced—suggesting there may still be undiscovered examples.
A 1969 doubled die penny graded MS64 was sold for $126,500 in 2005. This makes it one of the most valuable Lincoln pennies ever. If you’re searching for one, look for strong, visible doubling, as those are the most profitable!
3. 1981-S Type II Proof Lincoln Penny – $900 and $1,200
In 1979 and 1980, the U.S. Mint produced two varieties of Lincoln Memorial pennies, commonly known among numismatists as Type 1 and Type II. The key distinction between these types lies in the S mint mark:
- Type I has a less well-defined S with a somewhat blurry appearance.
- Type II features a sharper, clearer S with visible serifs.
While most Lincoln Memorial proof pennies from 1979 and 1980 belong to the Type 1 variety, the Type II pennies are far scarcer. The Mint modified the S mint mark punches, resulting in the more distinct Type II pennies, which are now highly sought after by collectors.
By 1981, only around 10% of Lincoln Memorial proof pennies bore the Type 2 mint marks, making them particularly valuable.
Today, a 1981-S Type II proof Lincoln Memorial penny in PF68 or higher can be worth between $900 and $1,200, depending on its condition and rarity.
4. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny – $7,050
Not all doubled die reverse errors are created equal—some are far more visible than others. The more pronounced the doubling, the more valuable the coin becomes.
While doubled die errors are relatively common in the Lincoln cent series, collectors should focus on strong doubling that is easily noticeable without magnification.
One of the most famous examples is the 1983 doubled die reverse penny, which exhibits some of the strongest doubling in the entire Lincoln penny series. The doubling is clearly visible around:
- The motto E PLURIBUS UNUM
- The words ONE CENT
- The word UNITED
Because high-grade examples are rare, they command impressive prices. A 1983 doubled die reverse penny graded MS68 was auctioned for $7,050, highlighting its desirability among collectors.
5. 1979-S Type II Proof Penny – $4000
In 1979, the U.S. Mint struck two distinct types of Lincoln proof pennies: Type I and Type II.
The difference lies in the mint mark:
- Type I: Features a bulbous “S” with a less-defined shape.
- Type II: Has a clearer, sharper “S”, making it more distinct and easier to recognize.
Most of the proof pennies minted that year were Type I, while Type II coins were struck later in smaller quantities. The scarcity of Type II pennies has driven up their value, making them a sought-after piece among collectors.
A 1979-S Type II Lincoln Memorial proof penny has been known to sell for up to $4,000 at auction.
6. 1998 Wide AM Penny – $5,000
The 1998 Lincoln penny is highly sought after due to a minting error where circulation strike coins were mistakenly struck with a proof reverse die.
This error appears on 1998, 1999, and 2000 Lincoln cents, but the 1998 variety is the scarcest. Over 100,000 of these coins were struck due to the reuse of multiple dies.
To identify this error, focus on the letters “AM” in “AMERICA” on the reverse:
- Regular business strike pennies (1993–2008): AM letters are close together.
- Proof strike pennies (1994–2008): AM letters are clearly separated.
The 1998 Wide AM penny is relatively easy to find in circulated condition but becomes rare in mint state. Coins graded MS68 or higher are extremely valuable.
A 1998 Wide AM Lincoln penny graded MS67+ or higher can sell for $5,000 or more at auction.
7. 1992 Close AM Penny – $25,850
The 1992 Close AM Lincoln penny is one of the rarest transitional error coins in the Lincoln cent series.
In 1992, the U.S. Mint used dies that spaced the letters “AM” in “AMERICA” apart. However, in 1993, the design changed, bringing the letters closer together.
Surprisingly, some 1992 pennies were mistakenly struck with the 1993 Close AM design, making them a major rarity.
Key Facts About the 1992 Close AM Penny
- Only three examples are known to exist.
- The first discovery was made in 2006, 14 years after minting.
- The most recent known example is graded MS62 (Red) by PCGS.
This coin’s uniqueness and visible transitional error make it highly sought after. In 2017, a 1992 Close AM penny (graded MS67 Red) sold for $25,850 at Heritage Auctions.
8. 1971-S Doubled Die Obverse Proof Penny – $3,220
The 1971-S Proof Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Penny is a rare and valuable variety, known for its distinct doubling on the obverse.
Two Varieties Exist:
- Weak Doubling – Less pronounced and less valuable.
- Strong Doubling – Clearly visible, making it the more desirable and expensive variety.
How to Identify It:
- Look for strong doubling around “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST” on the obverse.
- Proof pennies often have a sharper strike, making the doubling more noticeable.
Value and Rarity:
- Scarce in high grades, which increases its collectibility.
- Cameo and deep cameo specimens are especially valuable.
- In 2005, a cameo proof graded PF67 sold for $3,220 at auction.
This penny is a great addition to any Lincoln cent collection, as its popularity and value continue to grow over time.
9. 1970-S Small Date Penny – $18,400
The 1970-S Small Date Lincoln Penny is a highly sought-after variety due to its rarity and distinct features.
Key Differences Between Small Date & Large Date:
- Date Alignment:
- Small Date – The top of the “7” aligns with “1,” “9,” and “0.”
- Large Date – The “7” sits lower than the other digits.
- LIBERTY Strength:
- Small Date – The letters in “LIBERTY” appear weaker and less defined.
- Large Date – “LIBERTY” is strong and clear.
Value & Rarity:
- The 1970-S Small Date variety is scarce, making it a collector’s favorite.
- Even in circulated condition, these pennies are worth more than their face value.
- In mint state, they can sell for three figures or more depending on the grade.
- The most valuable 1970-S Small Date Lincoln penny sold for $18,400, graded PF69 Deep Cameo.
Why It’s Valuable:
- The limited number of small date pennies makes them highly collectible.
- Proof versions with Deep Cameo contrast command the highest prices.
This penny remains a top choice for Lincoln cent collectors, as its value continues to rise!
10. 1960- D Over D Small Date Over Large Date penny – $4,025
The 1960-D Lincoln Penny with a re-punched mint mark error and repunched date is a fascinating variety sought by collectors.
Error Details:
- Re-punched Mint Mark (RPM):
- The initial “D” mint mark was incorrectly oriented and then re-punched to correct its position.
- This resulted in a “piled” mint mark, where two distinct D’s are visible, one on top of the other.
- Repunched Date Error:
- Initially, a large date was struck, but the Mint later adjusted the die to strike a smaller date on top of the large one.
- This makes the 1960-D Lincoln penny with the repunched date especially rare and valuable.
Value & Rarity:
- 1960-D RPM and repunched date pennies are scarce and are considered collectible due to the unique error combination.
- Examples in gem condition are very sought after.
- A specimen graded MS66 was sold for $4,025 in 2008.
This rare error coin is a prized addition to any collection, especially for those focusing on Lincoln pennies!
11. 1972 Doubled Die Penny – $14,000
The 1972 Lincoln Memorial penny has several doubled die varieties, but the Type 1 variety is the most valuable and scarce.
Key Features of the 1972 Type 1 Doubled Die:
- Visible Doubling:
- The doubling is easily noticeable to the naked eye on:
- All four digits of the date (1972).
- The motto: IN GOD WE TRUST.
- The word LIBERTY.
- The doubling is easily noticeable to the naked eye on:
- Scarcity:
- The 1972 doubled die Type 1 penny is the rarest among the 1972 varieties, which contributes significantly to its value.
Value:
- High-Grade Examples:
- Coins graded MS67 and above can fetch as much as $14,000 at auction.
- Lower Grade Examples:
- Even brown pennies with this error can sell for between $1,200 to $2,000.
The 1972 doubled die Type 1 Lincoln penny is a highly sought-after collectible, especially for those looking to complete their Lincoln Memorial series or invest in valuable error coins!
12. 1990 No S Proof Penny – $20,700
The 1990-S no-mint mark proof Lincoln penny is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the Lincoln Memorial series.
Key Features of the 1990-S No-Mint Mark Proof Penny:
- Unique Feature:
- It is the only proof Lincoln penny to lack a mint mark.
- Scarcity:
- Fewer than 200 specimens are known to exist, making it extremely rare.
- Error History:
- The coin was accidentally struck using a mint state die (which did not have a mint mark) rather than the proof die that would typically bear the mint mark.
- By 1985, the Mint had started punching mint marks directly onto the working hub, but this error occurred due to the use of the wrong die.
- Destruction of Coins:
- The Mint reportedly destroyed several of these no-S proof pennies, further increasing the rarity and demand for those that survived.
Value:
- High-Grade Examples:
- The highest-graded example, graded MS69, was auctioned for an impressive $20,700.
This coin remains a key rarity in the Lincoln Memorial series, with its scarcity and error history driving up its market value significantly.
Summary:
While the U.S. Mint no longer produces Lincoln Memorial pennies, many of these coins remain in circulation and will continue to be common for years to come.
In general, Lincoln cents are worth their face value, but some specific varieties can be worth a substantial amount. Some of the most valuable Lincoln Memorial pennies include:
- 1972 Doubled Die Error coins
- 1983/84 Doubled Die Error coins
- 1995 Doubled Die Error coins
- 1970-S Small Date pennies
- 1990 No-S Proof pennies
These varieties have sold for five or six-figure returns, making them highly sought-after by collectors. So, while most Lincoln pennies remain common, certain errors and rarities can fetch impressive profits.
