The 11 Most Valuable Lincoln Memorial Pennies: Collector’s Goldmine Guide

Rarest Modern Cents Worth 300to300to50,000+

While most pennies are worth face value, these Lincoln Memorial reverse (1959-2008) errors and varieties can be worth a small fortune. Here’s the definitive guide to identifying and valuing these modern rarities.


Top-Tier Rarities ($10,000+)

1. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse

  • Value Range: 10,000−10,000−50,000+
  • Key Features:
    • Dramatic doubling on “LIBERTY” and date
    • Only 40-50 known survivors (most were recalled)
  • Record Sale: $126,500 (PCGS MS-64 RD, 2008)

2. 1992-D Close AM

  • Value Range: 5,000−5,000−25,000
  • Identification:
    • “AM” in “AMERICA” nearly touches
    • Normal coins show clear separation
  • Grading Premium: MS-67 = $20,000+

Mid-Range Treasures (500−500−14,000)

3. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse

  • Value Range: 500−500−14,000
  • Diagnostics:
    • Strong doubling on “TRUST” and Lincoln’s nose
    • Philadelphia mint (no mintmark)
  • Pro Tip: Look for “FS-101” designation

4. 1999 Wide AM

  • Value Range: 500−500−10,000
  • Reverse Feature:
    • Wide gap between “A” and “M”
    • Normal 1999 coins have Close AM

Budget-Friendly Finds (300−300−7,000)

5. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse

  • Value Range: 500−500−7,000
  • Where to Look:
    • Doubling on “ONE CENT” and memorial steps
    • Best examples: Philadelphia mint

6. 1970-S Small Date

  • Value Range: 300−300−3,500
  • Key Difference:
    • Smaller date than regular 1970-S
    • Rare in mint state condition

Authentication Guide

Essential Tools:

  • 10x loupe (for doubling detection)
  • Digital scale (verify 3.11g weight for copper pennies)
  • USB microscope ($30 on Amazon)

Grading Matters:

GradeValue Multiplier
MS-65+3-5x AU value
AU-5050% of MS value
Circulated10-25% of MS value

Where to Sell for Top Dollar

  1. Heritage Auctions (for coins worth $5k+)
  2. PCGS CoinFacts Forum (for certified coins)
  3. Local Coin Shows (for quick cash deals)

Selling Tip: Always get PCGS/NGC certification for coins potentially worth $1,000+


Free Professional Evaluation

Think you found a rare penny? Email clear photos to:
📧 verify@pennyverse.info
Subject: “MEMORIAL PENNY CHECK”

We’ll provide:
✔️ Free authenticity report
✔️ Current market valuation
✔️ Best selling options


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