1 cent

Lincoln Cent

United States · 1961

The coin is a Lincoln Cent, featuring the profile of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse (not shown in the image). The obverse includes the inscriptions "IN GOD WE TRUST," "LIBERTY," and the year of mintage, 1961.

Country: United States
Year: 1961
Denomination: 1 cent
Metal: 95% copper, 5% zinc

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 May 31, 2025More united states coins →

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Overview

Historical significance

The Lincoln Cent, first minted in 1909 to commemorate Abraham Lincoln's 100th birthday, is one of the most enduring coin designs in U.S. history. The reverse design featuring the Lincoln Memorial was introduced in 1959 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the cent and the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's birth.

Estimated value

The value of a 1961 Lincoln Cent in average circulated condition is minimal, typically only worth its face value. Higher grades or uncirculated examples can fetch slightly more, ranging from a few cents to a dollar or more depending on condition and any potential errors.

Care & preservation

To maintain the coin's condition, handle it by the edges to avoid transferring oils from your skin. Store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in a coin holder or album designed for coin storage. Avoid cleaning the coin, as this can damage its surface and reduce its value.