One Cent ($0.01)

Lincoln Cent

United States · 1981

The obverse features a profile portrait of Abraham Lincoln facing right, with the inscriptions 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the year '1981'. The coin shows significant patina and surface wear.

Country: United States
Year: 1981
Denomination: One Cent ($0.01)
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 February 19, 2026More united states coins →

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Overview

The obverse features a profile portrait of Abraham Lincoln facing right, with the inscriptions 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the year '1981'. The coin shows significant patina and surface wear.

Historical significance

1981 was the last full year the U.S. Mint produced pennies from a solid copper alloy (95% copper) before switching to copper-plated zinc in 1982 due to rising metal costs.

Estimated value

Face value ($0.01) to $0.02 (melt value of copper content)

Care & preservation

Avoid cleaning the coin as it can damage the surface and reduce any potential collector value. Handle it by the edges and store it in a dry, cool place inside a non-PVC coin holder or sleeve.