Lincoln Memorial Cent
Country of Origin: United States of America
Year of Issue: 1973
Denomination: One Cent ($0.01)
Composition: 95% Copper, 5% Zinc
Brief Description
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.
Estimated Value
$0.01 - $0.05 in circulated condition; $1 - $10+ in high uncirculated (MS-65 or better) grades.
Care Instructions
Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid cleaning, as it can damage the surface and reduce collector value. Use PVC-free coin holders.
Mint Mark
S (San Francisco Mint)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; 317,177,293 minted at San Francisco in 1973.
Weight & Diameter
3.11 grams; 19.05 mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Circulated / Fine to Very Fine. Significant surface darkening and minor wear visible on Lincoln's hair and the memorial steps.
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'.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition (grade), presence of original red luster, and specific mint errors or varieties.
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).
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.
Created At: 2026-04-28T21:38:42.734991