Most people think pennies are only worth a single cent, but some rare variations can fetch astonishing prices. One such case is the 1979 Lincoln Penny, where a small mint mark error turned an ordinary-looking coin into a collector’s dream. While billions of pennies were minted in 1979, a few were struck with a unique error that makes them significantly more valuable today. Could you have one of these rare 1979 pennies hiding in your pocket change? Let’s explore the details of this fascinating coin and how a tiny mint mark mistake made it worth a fortune.
The 1979 Lincoln Penny
The 1979 Lincoln Penny is part of the long-running Lincoln cent series, which began in 1909. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the obverse (front) features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, while the reverse (back) displays the iconic Lincoln Memorial, a design by Frank Gasparro that was used from 1959 to 2008.
These pennies were minted in three locations:
- Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Denver (D mint mark)
- San Francisco (S mint mark – proof coins only)
The standard 1979 penny is composed of 95% copper and 5% zinc, but the key to its value lies in specific mint mark errors, which are highly sought after by collectors.
The 1979 Lincoln Penny is proof that even small minting errors can create massive value in the world of coin collecting. While most 1979 pennies are worth only one cent, certain varieties—such as the **1979-S Type 2 proof penny, off-center strikes, or high-grade specimens—**can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. If you have a 1979 penny, it’s worth inspecting closely! A tiny mint mark difference or an unnoticed error could mean you’re holding a small fortune in your hands.
FAQ’s:
1. How do I know if my 1979 penny is valuable?
Check for rare mint mark varieties, minting errors, and high-grade conditions. A 1979-S Type 2 proof penny or an MS67+ red penny can be worth significant money.
2. What is the most valuable 1979 penny ever sold?
A 1979-S Type 2 proof penny in perfect condition (PR70) has sold for over $3,000, while high-grade MS67+ red pennies have fetched over $1,000 at auctions.
3. Where can I find the mint mark on a 1979 penny?
The mint mark, if present, is located below the date on the obverse side. The letters “D” (Denver) or “S” (San Francisco) indicate where the coin was minted. No mint mark means it was struck in Philadelphia.
4. Can I still find valuable 1979 pennies in circulation?
Yes! While rare proof coins are unlikely to be in circulation, high-grade 1979 pennies and minor errors can still be found in everyday pocket change or coin rolls.
5. Where can I sell a valuable 1979 penny?
You can sell rare 1979 pennies at coin shops, auctions (like Heritage Auctions), online marketplaces (eBay), or through professional grading services (PCGS, NGC) for proper authentication and valuation.
