Lincoln Memorial Cent

Country of Origin: United States of America

Year of Issue: 1964

Denomination: One Cent (1¢)

Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Zinc

Lincoln Memorial Cent

Brief Description

A copper-alloy small cent featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse.

Historical Significance

The Lincoln Cent is the longest-running US coin design, first issued in 1909. The Memorial reverse was introduced in 1959 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's birth. 1964 was the last year silver was used for larger denominations, but pennies remained high-copper until 1982.

Estimated Value

$0.02-$0.10 in circulated condition; $1.00-$10.00 for uncirculated specimens (MS63-MS65).

Care Instructions

Store in a dry, cool place away from moisture. Use PVC-free holders. Handle by the edges and avoid cleaning, as rubbing or chemical treatments will permanently damage the numismatic value.

Mint Mark

D (Denver Mint)

Mintage & Rarity

3,799,071,500 (Common)

Weight & Diameter

3.11 grams / 19.05 mm

Edge

Plain

Apparent Grade

Very Good to Fine (VG-F). Significant surface darkening, minor pitting/corrosion, and wear on the high points of Lincoln's hair and the Memorial columns.

Obverse (Front)

A portrait of Abraham Lincoln facing right, designed by Victor D. Brenner. Legends include 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the date '1964'.

Reverse (Back)

The Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C., designed by Frank Gasparro. Legends include 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'ONE CENT'.

What Drives This Coin's Value

Condition and luster are the primary value drivers for this common date. Rare errors like 'Double Dies' can significantly increase value.

Similar Coins

1964 Philadelphia strikes (no mint mark) and Proof strikes (high mirror-like finish).

Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags

Check weight (3.11g); later copper-plated zinc pennies (post-1982) weigh less (2.5g). Look for crisp details in the 'D' mint mark to ensure it wasn't added.

Notable Varieties & Errors

1964-D Repunched Mint Mark (RPM) and various minor die cracks.

Created At: 2026-05-15T03:09:38.973304