The Lincoln Memorial penny, minted from 1959 to 2008, is one of the most iconic coins in American history. While most of these pennies are only worth their face value, a select few stand out due to their rarity, errors, or unique qualities. These rare pennies can fetch impressive sums at auctions, making them a must-know for collectors.
Below, we’ll explore the 10 most valuable Lincoln Memorial pennies and what makes them special.
Table of Contents
- 1 1969-S Doubled Die Penny
- 2 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Penny
- 3 1992 Close AM Penny
- 4 1999 Wide AM Penny
- 5 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
- 6 1970-S Small Date Penny
- 7 1960 Small Date Penny
- 8 1984 Doubled Ear Penny
- 9 1998 Wide AM Penny
- 10 1964 SMS Lincoln Penny
- 11 Table – 10 Most Valuable Lincoln Memorial Pennies
- 12 FAQs
1969-S Doubled Die Penny
- Why It’s Valuable: This penny features one of the most dramatic examples of doubling, especially on the date and lettering.
- Estimated Value: Depending on condition, it can be worth $35,000 to $70,000.
- Rarity: Very few of these coins are known to exist, and they are highly sought after by error coin enthusiasts.
Also Read: The 9 Most Valuable Quarters Still in Circulation
1972 Doubled Die Obverse Penny
- Why It’s Valuable: This coin displays clear doubling on the obverse, particularly on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Estimated Value: In uncirculated condition, it can sell for $300 to $3,000.
- Collector Tip: Be cautious, as many counterfeit versions exist.
1992 Close AM Penny
- Why It’s Valuable: This error occurred when the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” were mistakenly placed too close together.
- Estimated Value: Depending on the grade, it can fetch $3,000 to $25,000.
- Rarity: Only a handful of these pennies have been found.
1999 Wide AM Penny
- Why It’s Valuable: The opposite of the 1992 Close AM, this coin features a wide gap between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.”
- Estimated Value: Prices range from $500 to $5,000, depending on condition.
- Collector Tip: Look for these in uncirculated rolls of 1999 pennies.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny
- Why It’s Valuable: This error shows noticeable doubling on the reverse, particularly on “ONE CENT” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
- Estimated Value: In uncirculated condition, it can sell for $250 to $1,500.
- Rarity: A favorite among error collectors due to its bold doubling.
1970-S Small Date Penny
- Why It’s Valuable: This variety features a smaller date and a less pronounced “7” in the year.
- Estimated Value: Depending on its condition, it can fetch $50 to $3,000.
- Collector Tip: High-grade specimens are particularly valuable.
Also Read: The 9 Most Valuable Quarters Still in Circulation
1960 Small Date Penny
- Why It’s Valuable: This penny features a smaller font for the date compared to the large date variety.
- Estimated Value: Prices range from $20 for circulated coins to $2,000 for uncirculated examples.
- Collector Tip: The small date variety is less common, making it more desirable.
1984 Doubled Ear Penny
- Why It’s Valuable: This error coin shows doubling on Lincoln’s ear, creating the appearance of an extra lobe.
- Estimated Value: In mint condition, it can sell for $200 to $3,000.
- Rarity: A popular variety among error coin collectors.
1998 Wide AM Penny
- Why It’s Valuable: Like the 1999 Wide AM, this coin features a distinct gap between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.”
- Estimated Value: Prices range from $100 to $500, with higher values for uncirculated examples.
- Collector Tip: Always check pennies from 1998 for this variety.
1964 SMS Lincoln Penny
- Why It’s Valuable: Special Mint Set (SMS) coins from 1964 are extremely rare, as they were never officially released.
- Estimated Value: A single specimen sold for over $11,000 at auction.
- Rarity: Only a few examples are known to exist, making it a true collector’s gem.
Table – 10 Most Valuable Lincoln Memorial Pennies
| Coin | Mint | Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1969-S Doubled Die Penny | San Francisco | $35,000–$70,000 | Dramatic doubling on the date and lettering, highly sought by error collectors. |
| 1972 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | $300–$3,000 | Clear doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” |
| 1992 Close AM Penny | Philadelphia | $3,000–$25,000 | Error with “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” placed too close together. |
| 1999 Wide AM Penny | Philadelphia | $500–$5,000 | Wide gap between “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.” |
| 1983 Doubled Die Reverse | Philadelphia | $250–$1,500 | Noticeable doubling on “ONE CENT” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” |
| 1970-S Small Date Penny | San Francisco | $50–$3,000 | Features a smaller date with a less pronounced “7.” |
| 1960 Small Date Penny | Philadelphia | $20–$2,000 | Smaller font for the date compared to the large date variety. |
| 1984 Doubled Ear Penny | Philadelphia | $200–$3,000 | Doubling on Lincoln’s ear, creating the appearance of an extra lobe. |
| 1998 Wide AM Penny | Philadelphia | $100–$500 | Wide gap between “A” and “M” in “AMERICA,” similar to the 1999 Wide AM. |
| 1964 SMS Lincoln Penny | Philadelphia | $11,000+ | Rare Special Mint Set coin, never officially released. |
FAQs
What makes Lincoln Memorial pennies valuable?
Rare minting errors, low mintage numbers, and unique varieties contribute to their value.
What is the most valuable Lincoln Memorial penny?
The 1969-S Doubled Die Penny, which can be worth $35,000–$70,000.
How can I identify a doubled die penny?
Look for doubling on the date, lettering, or specific details on the coin’s obverse or reverse.
Are valuable Lincoln Memorial pennies still in circulation?
Yes, some rare pennies, like the 1992 Close AM or 1999 Wide AM, can still be found in circulation.
How should I store valuable pennies?
Use coin holders or albums to protect them from damage and preserve their value.
