11 Rare Lincoln Memorial Penny Varietiest: The Lincoln Memorial penny, introduced in 1959 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, has been a staple of U.S. currency for decades. While most pennies are worth just a cent, some rare varieties are highly valuable due to minting errors, low production numbers, and unique features. Collectors actively seek out these coins, and some have fetched astonishing prices at auctions. In this article, we will explore 11 rare Lincoln Memorial penny varieties that every coin collector should know about.
Also Read: Unveiling the 11 Most Expensive One Dollar Coins
Table of Contents
- 1 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
- 2 1970-S Small Date
- 3 1972 Doubled Die Obverse
- 4 1983 Doubled Die Reverse
- 5 1984 Doubled Ear Lincoln Penny
- 6 1992 Close AM
- 7 1992-D Close AM
- 8 1995 Doubled Die Obverse
- 9 1998 Wide AM
- 10 1999 Wide AM
- 11 2000 Wide AM
- 12 Table – 11 Rare Lincoln Memorial Penny Varieties
- 13 FAQs About Rare Lincoln Memorial Penny Varieties
1969-S Doubled Die Obverse
One of the most famous Lincoln Memorial penny varieties, the 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse (DDO), features strong doubling on “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the date. This error resulted from a misalignment during the minting process. Extremely rare, these coins have sold for over $50,000 in high grades.
1970-S Small Date
The 1970-S Lincoln penny comes in two varieties: a small date and a large date. The small date variety is significantly rarer, distinguished by a weakly struck “7” in the date and a high position of “LIBERTY.” In mint condition, this variety can fetch prices upwards of $3,500.
1972 Doubled Die Obverse
Another prominent doubled die error, the 1972 DDO penny, exhibits noticeable doubling on the inscriptions and date. Unlike the 1969-S variety, this coin was struck in larger numbers, yet it remains a valuable find. Uncirculated examples have sold for more than $1,000.
1983 Doubled Die Reverse
Unlike most doubled die errors that appear on the obverse, the 1983 DDO penny features doubling on the reverse, specifically on “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” These coins are rare and can bring in values up to $600 or more in uncirculated condition.
1984 Doubled Ear Lincoln Penny
The 1984 doubled ear variety is an exciting find for collectors. This coin exhibits doubling on Lincoln’s ear, making it easy to spot. Well-preserved examples have sold for over $400.
1992 Close AM
The 1992 Close AM penny refers to the spacing of the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse. Typically, the letters are spaced apart, but in this rare variety, they are very close together. Fewer than 20 are known to exist, and they can fetch over $5,000 in high grades.
1992-D Close AM
Similar to the 1992 Philadelphia version, the 1992-D Close AM variety was minted in Denver and is even rarer. Only a handful have been found, with auction prices exceeding $20,000.
1995 Doubled Die Obverse
The 1995 DDO penny is one of the more common doubled die varieties, but it still holds value. The doubling is visible on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Though not as rare as earlier doubled die errors, a well-preserved specimen can be worth $50 to $500.
Also Read: The Top 9 Most Valuable Quarters in Circulation
1998 Wide AM
Unlike the 1992 Close AM, the 1998 Wide AM penny features a noticeably larger gap between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.” This variety is sought after by collectors and can be worth $200 to $500, depending on condition.
1999 Wide AM
The 1999 Wide AM variety is even rarer than the 1998 version, with fewer known examples in circulation. A high-quality specimen can bring in $500 to $1,500 at auction.
2000 Wide AM
The last major Wide AM variety, the 2000 Wide AM, is more common than the 1998 and 1999 versions but still desirable. Uncirculated examples can sell for $100 to $250.
Table – 11 Rare Lincoln Memorial Penny Varieties
| Coin | Mint | Value | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse | San Francisco | $50,000+ | Strong doubling on date and inscriptions. |
| 1970-S Small Date | San Francisco | $3,500+ | Small date with high “LIBERTY” and weak “7”. |
| 1972 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | $1,000+ | Doubling on inscriptions and date. |
| 1983 Doubled Die Reverse | Philadelphia | $600+ | Doubling on “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES”. |
| 1984 Doubled Ear Penny | Philadelphia | $400+ | Doubling on Lincoln’s ear. |
| 1992 Close AM | Philadelphia | $5,000+ | Close spacing between “A” and “M” in “AMERICA”. |
| 1992-D Close AM | Denver | $20,000+ | Even rarer Close AM variety from Denver mint. |
| 1995 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | $50 – $500 | Doubling on “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”. |
| 1998 Wide AM | Philadelphia | $200 – $500 | Wider gap between “A” and “M” in “AMERICA”. |
| 1999 Wide AM | Philadelphia | $500 – $1,500 | Rarer than the 1998 Wide AM. |
| 2000 Wide AM | Philadelphia | $100 – $250 | More common Wide AM variety but still valuable. |
The Lincoln Memorial penny series contains numerous rare and valuable varieties that collectors cherish. Whether you’re an experienced numismatist or just starting, knowing what to look for can make a significant difference. Who knows—you might just have a hidden treasure in your pocket change!
FAQs About Rare Lincoln Memorial Penny Varieties
1. How do I know if I have a rare Lincoln Memorial penny? Check for key details such as doubling, mint marks, and variations in letter spacing. A magnifying glass or coin microscope can help identify errors.
2. Where can I sell a rare Lincoln penny? Coin dealers, online marketplaces (eBay, Heritage Auctions), and numismatic shows are great places to sell rare pennies.
3. What is the best way to store valuable pennies? Use coin holders, albums, or protective cases to prevent damage and preserve their value.
4. Should I clean my Lincoln pennies? No! Cleaning can reduce a coin’s value significantly. Always consult a professional before attempting any restoration.
5. Are there any rare Lincoln pennies still in circulation? Yes, but they are extremely hard to find. It’s always worth checking your change, as rare varieties occasionally surface.
