If you’re a fan of Abraham Lincoln and enjoy collecting coins featuring this iconic U.S. president, you’re not alone! Lincoln pennies have been a staple of American currency since 1909, released to honor Lincoln’s 100th birthday.
Over the years, the Lincoln cent has seen several design changes. One of the most memorable designs is the Lincoln Memorial reverse, used from 1959 to 2008. While most of these coins are worth only face value in circulated condition, some uncirculated or rare error coins can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars!
Identifying valuable Lincoln Memorial pennies can be tricky—unless you know what features to look for. In this guide, we highlight the top Lincoln Memorial pennies that are truly worth adding to your collection.
Let’s dive into the list of the most valuable Lincoln pennies!
Top Lincoln Memorial Pennies Worth Big Money
1. 1983-D Bronze Lincoln Penny – Approx. $1,400
In 1982, the U.S. Mint switched from primarily copper pennies to those made with a zinc core due to rising copper costs. However, a few 1983-D pennies were mistakenly struck on leftover bronze planchets (which are 95% copper).
These transitional error coins are extremely rare—especially in higher mint state grades like MS67 and above. If you come across a red, uncirculated 1983-D bronze penny, it could easily fetch around $1,400 or more.
2. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Penny – Up to $126,500
The 1969-S Lincoln penny with a doubled die obverse is one of the most famous and valuable Lincoln cent errors. The doubling, especially on LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST, is very noticeable even without magnification.
This variety wasn’t discovered until the 1990s, making it a late bloomer in the collector’s world. With only a few dozen known to exist, one in mint state (MS64) sold for an incredible $126,500 in 2005!
3. 1981-S Type II Proof Penny – $900 to $1,200
In 1981, two proof varieties were struck at the San Francisco Mint. The key difference lies in the “S” mintmark:
- Type I has a more blurry or filled-in S.
- Type II shows a sharper, clearer S with distinct serifs.
Only around 10% of the proof coins that year were Type II, making them much scarcer and more desirable. A well-preserved specimen graded PF68 or higher can be worth between $900 and $1,200.
4. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse Penny – Sold for $7,050
The 1983 doubled die reverse penny is famous for its dramatic and clear doubling. You can easily spot the doubling on E PLURIBUS UNUM, ONE CENT, and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA on the reverse side.
Because high-grade versions are hard to come by, prices soar for coins in excellent condition. In fact, one MS68 example sold for an impressive $7,050 at auction.
5. 1979-S Type II Proof Penny – Up to $4,000
Like the 1981 variety, 1979 also saw two types of proof pennies from the San Francisco Mint. The Type II variety is known for its crisp, well-defined mintmark, compared to the more blobby look of the Type I.
Most of the 1979-S proofs were Type I, making Type II much more elusive. The scarcity and clear mintmark make it a hot item for collectors—some pristine examples have sold for as much as $4,000.
Want to Know What Your Coins Are Worth?
If you’re unsure whether your Lincoln penny is valuable, don’t worry! You can easily get a free appraisal and even sell your coins on verified platforms specializing in coin collecting.
Final Thoughts
While most Lincoln Memorial pennies are still worth just a cent in everyday circulation, a select few can bring in serious money—especially if they’re in uncirculated condition or feature rare errors. Keep an eye out for these valuable varieties—you might just have a hidden gem in your collection!
Happy collecting!
I do have this coins mentioned plus 1982 bronze.and many more from 1929 to 1958 wheat pennies.
I have a lot of pennies dimes nickels no way to sale help me