23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

The Lincoln Memorial penny, which was minted from 1959 to 2008, is a familiar coin for many, but not all pennies are created equal. While most of these coins are common and worth little more than their face value, there are some rare varieties, key dates, and errors that can be worth significantly more to collectors. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 23 rare Lincoln Memorial pennies you should be on the lookout for, along with their estimated values and how to spot them.

1. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

The 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse is one of the most sought-after error coins among collectors. This coin features notable doubling on the obverse, particularly on the inscriptions “IN GOD WE TRUST” and “LIBERTY.” There are only a few dozen known examples of this rare penny, and some can fetch as much as $70,000 in uncirculated condition. To learn more about these types of errors, visit the U.S. Mint website.

2. 1970-S Small Date

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

Another rare variant is the 1970-S Small Date penny. Unlike the more common large date version, the small date version features a date where the “7” aligns with the “9” and “0,” making it much rarer. Mint-state examples can fetch up to $50 or more depending on their condition. This is a must-have for any serious penny collector. Learn more about rare dates and minting errors on the U.S. Mint’s error coins page.

3. 1983-D Copper

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

The 1983-D Copper penny is a fascinating off-metal error. Instead of the usual zinc-coated steel, some pennies were mistakenly struck on copper planchets, making these coins highly valuable. Depending on the condition, a 1983-D Copper penny can be worth upwards of $15,000. If you think you have one of these, be sure to have it professionally authenticated.

4. 1992 Close AM

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

In 1992, a rare error occurred where the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse side of the penny were unusually close together. Known as the 1992 Close AM variety, this coin is extremely rare, with only a few known examples. These pennies can fetch upwards of $20,000, especially in mint state. For more information on coin errors, visit The Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC).

5. 1984 Doubled Die Obverse

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

The 1984 Doubled Die Obverse features noticeable doubling on the obverse, particularly in the ear and hair details of President Abraham Lincoln. A well-preserved example can be worth $75 or more. This is a popular coin among collectors due to its distinct error and historical significance.

6. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

Similar to the 1969-S, the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse features significant doubling on Lincoln’s portrait and the inscriptions. This penny is rare and can be worth several hundred dollars in uncirculated condition. The 1972 penny is one of the most famous doubled die errors of the Lincoln Memorial series.

7. 1960 Large Date

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

In 1960, a large and small date variety was struck, with the large date being rarer. These large date coins are not as common as the small date version, and they can fetch a higher price among collectors. A 1960 Large Date in mint state can bring in around $40 or more.

8. 1959 Proof Penny

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

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.

9. 1995 Doubled Die Obverse

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

This error penny is noted for its doubling on the obverse, particularly on the word “LIBERTY.” While not as famous as the 1969 or 1972 errors, a 1995 Doubled Die Obverse penny is still a rare and valuable find. It can be worth upwards of $150 in high-grade conditions.

10. 1982 Copper Small Date

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

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.

11. 1998 Wide AM

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

The 1998 Wide AM is another rare error found on the reverse side of the coin. It features a noticeable space between the “A” and “M” in “AMERICA,” which makes it a key variety among collectors. In high-grade condition, these pennies can fetch $500 or more.

12. 2000 Wide AM

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

Like the 1998 version, the 2000 Wide AM variety features a wider spacing between the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA.” The 2000 Wide AM is one of the more valuable varieties of the Lincoln Memorial series, worth upwards of $1,000 for an uncirculated example.

13. 1968-S Doubled Die Obverse

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

This error coin from 1968 features doubled images on the obverse, with most doubling visible in the lettering “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” A 1968-S Doubled Die Obverse penny can fetch several hundred dollars, depending on the coin’s condition.

14. 1969-S Lincoln Memorial Penny

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

While not an error, the 1969-S Lincoln Memorial penny is often overlooked but is considered a key date in the series. It is often found in higher demand among collectors due to its limited mintage.

15. 1982 Zinc Small Date

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

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.

16. 1991 Close AM

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

This is another example of the “Close AM” variety that occurs when the letters “A” and “M” are too close together on the reverse. These types of errors make the 1991 Close AM pennies worth more than standard coins. While not as valuable as the 1992 Close AM, they are still rare and in high demand.

17. 1963 Proof Penny

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

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

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

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. 1971 Doubled Die Obverse

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

Another doubled die error, the 1971 Doubled Die Obverse is known for its noticeable doubling in the letters of “LIBERTY.” A coin in mint condition can be worth several hundred dollars.

20. 1980 Small Date

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

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.

21. 1981 Small Date

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

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.

22. 1993 Wide AM

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

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.

23. 2008-S Reverse Proof Penny

23 Rare Lincoln Memorial Pennies to Watch For (Key Dates, Varieties & Errors)

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.

Conclusion

While most Lincoln Memorial pennies are of little value, the rare varieties, key dates, and errors mentioned in this article can be highly valuable to collectors. If you suspect you have one of these rare pennies, it’s a good idea to have it appraised by a professional. Be sure to research each coin thoroughly and consult reputable sources like the U.S. Mint or NGC to confirm its authenticity and value. Happy collecting!

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.

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