1 Cent (One Penny)

Lincoln Cent (Lincoln Penny)

United States of America · 1961

The coin clearly shows the obverse side, featuring the profile of Abraham Lincoln facing right, as designed by Victor David Brenner. The date '1961' is visible to the right of Lincoln. The coin is housed in a square holder with '1961' printed above the coin and 'PROOF' printed below it, indicating it is a proof coin with a shiny, mirror-like finish.

Country: United States of America
Year: 1961
Denomination: 1 Cent (One Penny)
Metal: 95% Copper, 5% Zinc and Tin (bronze)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified August 4, 2025More united states of america coins →

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Overview

Historical significance

The Lincoln Cent, first issued in 1909, marked the centennial of Abraham Lincoln's birth and was the first widely circulated American coin to feature a real person rather than an allegorical figure. The 1961 proof version represents a special collector's issue, struck with greater care and higher quality dies to produce a sharp, detailed image and mirrored fields, intended for collectors rather than general circulation. Proof coins from this era were a popular choice for numismatists.

Estimated value

For a 1961 Proof Lincoln Cent, the estimated value can range from approximately $5 to $20, depending on its grade and whether it has full red (RD) designation. Coins in original Mint Proof Sets might fetch slightly more.

Care & preservation

Handle the coin by its edges only, preferably with cotton gloves, to avoid transferring oils from your skin. Store it in a stable, inert holder مثل the one it is currently in, away from extreme temperature changes, humidity, and direct sunlight. Do not clean the coin, as this can severely damage its surface and reduce its numismatic value.

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Overview

Historical significance

Estimated value

Care & preservation

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Learn about Lincoln Cent (Lincoln Penny) in the encyclopedia