$35,000 for a Penny? These 23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Coins Are Highly Valuable

The Lincoln Memorial penny, introduced in 1959, replaced the Wheat Penny and became one of the most widely circulated coins in U.S. history. While most of these pennies are worth only face value, certain rare dates, errors, and varieties can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars to collectors.

This article explores 23 rare Lincoln Memorial pennies that should be on your radar. These include key dates, minting errors, and doubled die varieties that have made headlines in the numismatic world.

Key Date & Rare Variety Lincoln Memorial Pennies

1. 1960 Small Date & Large Date Varieties

• Why is it valuable? In 1960, the U.S. Mint produced two different date styles: Small Date and Large Date. The Small Date variety, especially from the Denver Mint (1960-D), is rarer and more desirable.
• How to identify it? The Small Date has a more compact appearance, whereas the Large Date has stretched-out numbers.
• Value: Up to $1,000 in top condition.

2. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse

• Why is it valuable? One of the most famous Lincoln penny errors, this coin has significant doubling on the date and inscriptions.
• How to identify it? Look for clear doubling in “LIBERTY” and the date “1969”.
• Value: In high grades, this coin has sold for over $35,000 at auction.

3. 1970-S Small Date & Large Date Varieties

• Why is it valuable? The Small Date variety is much scarcer and is worth considerably more.
• How to identify it? The Small Date has the “9” and “0” in “1970” at the same height, while in the Large Date, the “9” is higher.
• Value: A 1970-S Small Date penny in high condition can be worth $3,500 or more.

4. 1971 Doubled Die Obverse

• Why is it valuable? This error shows doubling in “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY”.
• How to identify it? Look closely at the inscriptions; the letters should appear doubled.
• Value: $25 to $1,000+ depending on the grade.

5. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse

• Why is it valuable? Similar to the 1955 doubled die penny, this coin has dramatic doubling visible to the naked eye.
• How to identify it? The date and inscriptions appear doubled.
• Value: Up to $1,500 in uncirculated condition.

6. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse

• Why is it valuable? This variety shows doubling on the reverse inscriptions, making it rare.
• How to identify it? Look for clear doubling in “ONE CENT” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”.
• Value: Up to $2,500 in high grades.

7. 1992 Close AM Penny

• Why is it valuable? The “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are closer together than usual, creating a rare variety.
• How to identify it? Compare the spacing between the letters; the Close AM variety has almost no gap.
• Value: Up to $25,000 in mint condition.

8. 1995 Doubled Die Obverse

• Why is it valuable? This penny has doubled lettering in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”.
• How to identify it? Use a magnifying glass to spot clear letter duplication.
• Value: $50 – $1,000+ in high grades.

9. 1998 & 2000 Wide AM Pennies

• Why is it valuable? Unlike the Close AM variety, these have a wider gap between “A” and “M”.
• Value: Up to $1,000+.

10. 1968-S Doubled Die Obverse

• Why is it valuable? Features doubling in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST”.
• Value: Several hundred dollars.

11. 1969-S Lincoln Memorial Penny

• Why is it valuable? Considered a key date among Lincoln pennies.
• Value: Higher collector demand increases its price.

12. 1991 Close AM

• Why is it valuable? The Close AM variety is rare, making this penny highly collectible.
• Value: Hundreds of dollars in top condition.

13. 2008-S Reverse Proof Penny

• Why is it valuable? Limited edition collector coin with a mirror-like reverse proof finish.
• Value: Significant premiums in proof sets.

14. 1959 Proof Penny

The first year of the Lincoln Memorial design, 1959, also had a limited number of proof pennies struck. These proof coins were produced for collectors and feature a mirror-like finish. A 1959 proof penny is worth significantly more than the regular strike, especially if it’s in pristine condition.

15. 1982 Copper Small Date

The 1982 copper pennies are highly prized by collectors. The “Small Date” version, in particular, is harder to find than the larger date variant. A 1982 Copper Small Date can be worth several hundred dollars in mint condition.

16. 1982 Zinc Small Date

The 1982 Zinc Small Date penny is a rare variety because it was struck during a year when both copper and zinc pennies were minted. This particular penny, with a small date, is harder to find in good condition and is valued at a premium compared to its large date counterpart.

17. 1963 Proof Penny

The 1963 proof penny is another desirable coin for collectors, as it was struck in limited quantities for proof sets. It is especially valuable if it’s in high-grade or gem condition.

18. 1976 Bicentennial Proof Penny

The 1976 Bicentennial proof penny, created to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States, is also a valuable item for collectors. It was issued as part of a proof set and features a mirror-like finish.

19. 1980 Small Date

The 1980 Small Date penny, like other small date varieties, is harder to find and can be worth more than the large date variety. It’s a popular coin for collectors looking to complete their series.

20. 1981 Small Date

Similar to the 1980 Small Date, this penny is another example of a small date variation. Although not extremely rare, it is still sought after by collectors.

21. 1993 Wide AM

The 1993 Wide AM penny is another error where the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” are spaced wider than usual. This is a key variety that can be worth hundreds of dollars in higher grades.

22. 2008-S Reverse Proof Penny

The 2008-S Reverse Proof penny was part of a special series issued for collectors and features a reverse proof finish. These pennies are part of a limited edition set, making them valuable.

Factors That Affect a Penny’s Value

If you own Lincoln Memorial pennies, these key factors determine their worth:

• Mintmark & Year – Some years and mints (e.g., 1969-S, 1970-S, 1992, 1995) have rare varieties.
• Condition (Coin Grading Matters!) – Higher-graded coins are worth significantly more.
• Rare Errors & Doubled Dies – Look for misprints, repunched mintmarks, and doubling.
• Demand from Collectors – High collector interest drives up value.

How to Identify and Sell Rare Pennies

If you think you have a rare penny, follow these steps:

• Examine with a Magnifier – Check for doubled dies, mintmark errors, or spacing differences.
• Use a Digital Scale – Certain rare pennies weigh slightly more or less than regular ones.
• Test with a Magnet – Some errors, like the 1943 bronze penny, can be identified this way.
• Authenticate Through PCGS or NGC – Professional grading verifies authenticity and increases value.
• Sell Through Auctions – Heritage Auctions, eBay, or Stack’s Bowers are good platforms.

Conclusion: Could You Have a Valuable Lincoln Memorial Penny?

While most Lincoln Memorial pennies are common, certain key dates, varieties, and mint errors can be worth thousands. If you find one of these rare pennies in your collection, get it authenticated and consider selling it at an auction.

The best way to build your knowledge is to stay informed through trusted numismatic resources, professional grading companies, and reputable coin dealers. Happy hunting!

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.