Coin Identifier
Lincoln Memorial Cent — obverse
Obverse
Lincoln Memorial Cent — reverse
Reverse
One Cent (1¢)

Lincoln Memorial Cent

United States of America · 1964

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

Country
United States of America
Year
1964
Denomination
One Cent (1¢)
Metal
95% Copper, 5% Zinc

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Overview

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.

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'.

Estimated value

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

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.

Grade assessment

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.

Mintage & rarity

3,799,071,500 (Common)

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.

Similar coins

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

Care & preservation

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.