Though the vast majority of Lincoln Memorial pennies are only worth one cent, there are a few that are amazingly valuable — even selling for hundreds or thousands at auction. The coins, dated from 1959 through 2008, bear the reverse image of the Lincoln Memorial and have been collectors’ treasures ever since due to rare mistakes, low production totals, and excellent grades.
These are 9 worth Lincoln Memorial pennies that you should look out for in your pocket change or coin collection.
Why are some Lincoln Memorial Pennies worth money?
- Rarity: Low mintage levels make some years and mint marks very desired.
- Mistakes: Misstrikes, double dies, and other minting errors can be valuable.
- Condition: Well-preserved or uncirculated coins are worth more.
- Historical Value: Coins related to events or anniversaries of events typically hold a premium.
9 Valuable Lincoln Memorial Pennies
| Year | Mint Mark | Key Feature | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1969-S | S (San Francisco) | Doubled Die Obverse | $35,000+ |
| 1972 | D (Denver) | Doubled Die Obverse | 300−300−500 |
| 1983 | None (Philadelphia) | Double Die Reverse | 150−150−300 |
| 1992 | D (Denver) | Close AM Reverse | 500−500−1,000 |
| 1995 | D (Denver) | Doubled Die Obverse | 20−20−50 |
| 1998 | None (Philadelphia) | Wide AM Reverse | 10−10−20 |
| 1999 | None (Philadelphia) | Wide AM Reverse | 10−10−20 |
| 2009 | D (Denver) | Special Design (Log Cabin) | 5−5−10 (Uncirculated) |
| 2014 | S (San Francisco) | Steel Penny (Error) | 100−100−200 |
1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
- Why Valuable: Perhaps the most popular Lincoln penny error, with clear doubling on inscriptions and the date.
- How to Identify: Check for doubling on “LIBERTY” and the date.
- Human Connection: This coin is commonly known as the “King of Lincoln Memorial Pennies” among collectors.
1972 Doubled Die Obverse
- Why Valuable: A stark doubling error on the obverse side.
- How to Identify: Double on “IN GOD WE TRUST” and date.
- Human Connection: A popular choice among error collectors because of its dramatic appearance.
1983 Double Die Reverse
- Why Valuable: Uncommon doubling error on the reverse.
- How to Identify: Double on the building of the Lincoln Memorial.
- Human Connection: Frequently discovered in circulation, so a thrilling find for the average coin hunter.
1992 Close AM Reverse
- Why Valuable: The letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are more together than normal.
- How to Identify: Compare the “AM” spacing to a normal penny.
- Human Connection: This type is a testament to the attention to detail needed in collecting coins.
1995 Doubled Die Obverse
- Why Valuable: A less extreme but still worth doubling error.
- How to Identify: Check for doubling on the date and inscriptions.
- Human Connection: A great starter coin for new collectors because of its affordability.
1998 and 1999 Wide AM Reverse
- Why Valuable: The letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are wider apart than on a regular penny.
- How to Identify: Observe the space against a standard penny.
- Human Connection: These coins are commonly discovered in pocket change, so they are within reach for general collectors.
1999 Wide AM
- Value: $200 to $600+
- Why It’s Valuable: Opposite of the 1992 Close AM — this 1999 cent mistakenly has a wider spacing between the A and M in “AMERICA.”
- Spotting Tip: Compare it side-by-side with a normal cent for clarity.
2014 Steel Penny (Error)
- Why Valuable: An error where the penny was accidentally minted on a steel planchet.
- How to Identify: The coin will be magnetic and lighter in hue.
- Human Connection: A contemporary rarity that will thrill new collectors as well as seasoned veterans.
2009 Log Cabin Design
- Why Valuable: One of a special series honoring Lincoln’s bicentennial.
- How to Identify: Has a log cabin in the reverse.
- Human Connection: A valuable coin for history buffs, honoring Lincoln’s humble roots.
Tips for Collectors
- Look Through Your Change: There are many valuable pennies still in circulation.
- Invest in a Magnifying Glass: Fine details such as doubling or spacing may be difficult to detect using the naked eye.
- Store Correctly: Keep your pennies in coin holders or albums to maintain their condition.
- Consult Experts: If you believe you’ve discovered a rare penny, have it authenticated by an expert.
Final Thought
While most Lincoln Memorial pennies are ordinary, these scarce errors and varieties show us that an otherwise ordinary 1-cent coin can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. As a seasoned numismatist, or even a hobbyist collector, it’s worth digging through your pocket change, coin rolls, or old containers to see if you have any of these hidden gems. You never know — one of these 9 Lincoln Memorial treasures may be right in front of you, lying in wait to be found.