Obverse

Reverse

One Cent ($0.01)

Lincoln Memorial Cent

United States of America · 1973

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

Country: United States of America
Year: 1973
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.

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Overview

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

Historical significance

The Lincoln Cent was the first US coin to feature a historical figure. The Memorial reverse was introduced in 1959 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's birth.

Obverse (front)

Portrait of Abraham Lincoln facing right, designed by Victor David Brenner. Inscriptions: 'IN GOD WE TRUST', 'LIBERTY', and the date '1973' with 'S' mint mark.

Reverse (back)

A depiction of the Lincoln Memorial, designed by Frank Gasparro. Inscriptions: 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA', 'E PLURIBUS UNUM', and 'ONE CENT'.

Estimated value

$0.01 - $0.05 in circulated condition; $1 - $10+ in high uncirculated (MS-65 or better) grades.

What drives this coin's value

Condition (grade), presence of original red luster, and specific mint errors or varieties.

Grade assessment

Circulated / Fine to Very Fine. Significant surface darkening and minor wear visible on Lincoln's hair and the memorial steps.

Mintage & rarity

Common; 317,177,293 minted at San Francisco in 1973.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Weight Check (should be ~3.1g). Common counterfeits are rare for this date, but check for altered mint marks.

Notable varieties & errors

Double die obverse (DDO) and various minor striking errors like off-center hits or die cracks are sought after by specialists.

Similar coins

1973 Philadelphia (no mint mark) and 1973-D (Denver) cents. Also similar appearing to post-1982 zinc cents which are lighter (2.5g).

Care & preservation

Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid cleaning, as it can damage the surface and reduce collector value. Use PVC-free coin holders.

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Overview

Historical significance

Obverse (front)

Reverse (back)

Estimated value

What drives this coin's value

Grade assessment

Mintage & rarity

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Notable varieties & errors

Similar coins

Care & preservation

Other united states of america coins

Learn about Lincoln Memorial Cent in the encyclopedia