Most people don’t think twice about pennies, but did you know that some Lincoln Memorial Pennies are worth thousands of dollars? From minting errors to rare varieties, these coins have become valuable collector’s items.
Some have even sold for over $35,000! Whether you’re a coin enthusiast or just curious, it’s time to check your change—you might have a rare penny in your pocket!
The History of the Lincoln Memorial Penny
The Lincoln Memorial Penny was introduced in 1959 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the front of the penny features Lincoln’s profile, while the back displays the Lincoln Memorial.
This design was used until 2008, when it was replaced by the Lincoln Bicentennial Pennies. Despite being common, certain rare varieties make some of these pennies incredibly valuable.
1. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse – $35,000+
This error penny features a doubled date and lettering, making it one of the most famous Lincoln Memorial Pennies.
Only a few exist, and collectors are willing to pay more than $35,000 for a high-quality version.
However, due to its value, it is often counterfeited, so professional authentication is a must.
2. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse – $500 – $1,000
The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse penny has a noticeable doubling on the date and the words “IN GOD WE TRUST”. While not as rare as the 1969-S version, a well-preserved coin can still sell for $500 to $1,000.
3. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse – $100 – $500
Unlike most error pennies, this one has doubling on the reverse side, particularly on the Lincoln Memorial and lettering. This rare error can be worth anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on its condition.
4. 1995 Doubled Die Obverse – $20 – $50
The 1995 Doubled Die Obverse penny has doubling on the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”. While not as rare as other doubled die pennies, it’s still a valuable find, selling for $20 to $50 in circulated condition.
5. 1984 Doubled Die Obverse – $100 – $300
This error coin has noticeable doubling on Lincoln’s profile and the date. In uncirculated condition, it can sell for $100 to $300, making it a great find for collectors.
6. 1998-S Proof Penny – $50 – $100
The 1998-S Proof Penny was struck at the San Francisco Mint for collectors. While proof coins aren’t usually rare, this one is highly sought after due to its low mintage. A well-preserved version can sell for $50 to $100.
7. 1999 Wide AM Reverse – $50 – $200
On this rare variety, the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are spaced farther apart than usual. A 1999 Wide AM penny in good condition can sell for $50 to $200.
8. 2000 Wide AM Reverse – $20 – $100
Similar to the 1999 version, the 2000 Wide AM Reverse penny has a wider spacing between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.” It can sell for $20 to $100, depending on its condition.
9. 1970-S Small Date High 7 – $50 – $200
This rare variety features a higher-positioned “7” in the date. It’s a highly collectible penny, and in uncirculated condition, it can be worth $50 to $200.
10. 1982 No Mint Mark Copper Penny – $5,000+
In 1982, the U.S. Mint switched from copper pennies to zinc pennies. However, a few copper pennies were accidentally made without a mint mark. These are extremely rare, and one in uncirculated condition can sell for over $5,000!
11. 2004-S Proof Penny – $50 – $100
The 2004-S Proof Penny is another rare San Francisco Mint coin made for collectors. With a low mintage, this coin in perfect condition can fetch $50 to $100.
Table: Most Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies
| Coin | Mint | Value (Approx.) | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse | San Francisco | $35,000+ | Dramatic doubling on date & lettering |
| 1972 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | $500 – $1,000 | Doubling on date & motto |
| 1983 Doubled Die Reverse | Philadelphia | $100 – $500 | Doubling on memorial & lettering |
| 1995 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | $20 – $50 | Doubling on “LIBERTY” & “IN GOD WE TRUST” |
| 1984 Doubled Die Obverse | Philadelphia | $100 – $300 | Doubling on Lincoln’s profile |
| 1998-S Proof Penny | San Francisco | $50 – $100 | Low mintage, proof-only issue |
| 1999 Wide AM Reverse | Philadelphia | $50 – $200 | Wider spacing between “A” and “M” |
| 2000 Wide AM Reverse | Philadelphia | $20 – $100 | Similar to 1999 Wide AM variety |
| 1970-S Small Date High 7 | San Francisco | $50 – $200 | “7” in date positioned higher |
| 1982 No Mint Mark Copper | Philadelphia | $5,000+ | Struck on copper planchet, missing mint mark |
| 2004-S Proof Penny | San Francisco | $50 – $100 | Low mintage, sharp proof strike |
Lincoln Memorial Pennies may seem ordinary, but some are worth thousands. Whether it’s a rare error, a minting mistake, or a low-mintage proof coin, these pennies have become prized collectibles.
If you ever come across an old penny, take a second look—it could be worth a small fortune!
