To most people, a 1968 penny is just an old coin—hardly worth more than a cent. But to collectors and numismatists, some 1968 pennies have become the focus of intense interest. In recent years, a small number of rare 1968 pennies have turned up in circulation, shocking lucky finders with their surprising value. Whether it’s a rare mint mark, a dramatic error, or a proof coin that somehow escaped into the wild, these 1968 Lincoln cents could be worth far more than their face value—sometimes hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Let’s break down why this common coin from the ’60s could be hiding a small fortune in plain sight.
Coin Name & Details: The 1968 Lincoln Memorial Cent
The 1968 Lincoln penny is part of the long-running Lincoln cent series, featuring the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse. It was minted at three U.S. Mints that year: Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco. While millions were produced, only a few rare varieties and errors have caught the attention of serious collectors.
Specifications:
- Obverse Design: Abraham Lincoln by Victor D. Brenner
- Reverse Design: Lincoln Memorial by Frank Gasparro
- Composition: 95% copper, 5% zinc (pre-1982 alloy)
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Diameter: 19.05 mm
- Edge: Plain
- Mint Marks:
- No mint mark = Philadelphia
- “D” = Denver
- “S” = San Francisco (Proof coins)
What Makes the 1968 Penny So Valuable?
Several factors can make a 1968 penny worth far more than face value, including mint location, errors, and rarity of certain proof coins. Let’s look at the top valuable versions:
1. 1968-S Proof Penny in Circulation
Proof coins were struck in San Francisco and were never intended for circulation. However, a few have shown up in change over the years. If a 1968-S proof penny somehow made it into circulation and remains in excellent condition, it could sell for $100–$500, depending on its grade.
2. 1968-D Doubled Die Obverse
This is the holy grail of 1968 penny errors. A doubled die obverse (DDO) happens when the die itself was improperly manufactured, creating a doubling effect on the date, lettering, or design. A 1968-D DDO penny in high grade could be worth $1,000 or more, especially if verified by a grading service like PCGS or NGC.
3. Off-Center or Broadstrike Errors
Off-center strike errors, where the coin’s design is shifted away from the center, are always popular with collectors. A 1968 penny struck off-center can fetch $50–$250, depending on the severity of the error.4. High-Grade Business Strike Coins
The beauty of coin collecting is that treasure can be hiding in the most unexpected places. A 1968 penny might seem unremarkable at first glance, but with the right combination of mint mark, error, or condition, it could turn out to be a valuable find. If you’re sorting through change, coin rolls, or an old coin jar, keep an eye out for 1968 pennies with odd features—unusual color, off-center designs, or bold doubling. You just might uncover a small fortune where you least expect it.
FAQ’s:
1. How can I tell if my 1968 penny is valuable?
Look closely at the mint mark and inspect the coin for signs of doubling (especially on the date and “LIBERTY”). Weigh it (should be 3.11g), and check for unusual strike errors. A professional grading service can confirm authenticity.
2. What is the most valuable 1968 penny known?
The most valuable examples include the 1968-D doubled die obverse and high-grade 1968-S proof pennies found in circulation. These can fetch $500 to $1,000+ depending on grade and rarity.
3. Is a 1968 penny without a mint mark rare?
Not necessarily — no mint mark means it was minted in Philadelphia. However, if it’s in mint condition or has a unique error, it could still be valuable.
4. What is a doubled die obverse (DDO)?
It’s an error where the design elements (like the date or letters) appear doubled due to a mistake when the die was manufactured. These coins are rare and very collectible.
5. Where can I sell a rare 1968 penny?
You can sell valuable coins through online auction sites (like eBay or Heritage Auctions), local coin dealers, or at coin shows. Be sure to have it authenticated by a grading service like PCGS or NGC for best results.
