Coin Identifier
Lincoln Memorial Cent — obverse
Obverse
Lincoln Memorial Cent — reverse
Reverse
One Cent ($0.01)

Lincoln Memorial Cent

United States of America · 1959-2008 (Specific date obscured, likely 1982-2008 based on appearance)

A copper-colored U.S. penny showing Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse.

Country
United States of America
Year
1959-2008 (Specific date obscured, likely 1982-2008 based on appearance)
Denomination
One Cent ($0.01)
Metal
Copper-plated Zinc (If minted after 1982) or 95% Copper/5% Zinc (If 1959-1982)

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Overview

A copper-colored U.S. penny showing Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse.

Historical significance

The Lincoln Memorial reverse was introduced in 1959 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth, replacing the earlier Wheat Cent design.

Obverse (front)

Portrait of Abraham Lincoln facing right, designed by Victor D. Brenner. Legend 'IN GOD WE TRUST' and 'LIBERTY' with the date and mint mark.

Reverse (back)

The Lincoln Memorial building in the center, designed by Frank Gasparro. Legends 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'ONE CENT'.

Estimated value

$0.01-$0.05 in circulated condition; $0.50-$5.00+ for high-grade uncirculated specimens.

What drives this coin's value

Most value comes from condition, specific key dates (like 1992 Close AM), and striking errors like doubled dies.

Grade assessment

Circulated / Fine to Very Fine (displays significant surface staining and some rim damage/corrosion)

Mintage & rarity

Common; billions were produced annually. It is one of the most widely circulated coins in history.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check weight and diameter; authentic coins should have a clear strike. Watch for 'zinc rot' which causes bubbling on the surface of newer pennies.

Notable varieties & errors

1982 Large/Small Date transitions, 1983 Doubled Die Reverse, 1984 Doubled Die Obverse, Wide/Close AM varieties.

Similar coins

Lincoln Wheat Cents (1909-1958) and Lincoln Shield Cents (2010-present).

Care & preservation

Avoid cleaning with chemicals or abrasives. Store in a cool, dry place in an acid-free holder to prevent zinc rot or oxidation.