Most people don’t pay much attention to pennies, but did you know that one from 2017 could be a special collector’s item? The 2017-P Lincoln Penny is unique because it marks the first and only time the U.S. Mint added a “P” mintmark on a penny struck in Philadelphia. This small design change makes it a modern rarity that many collectors want to own. While it may not be worth a fortune yet, some high-grade or error versions of this penny have already sold for impressive prices. Could you have one of these valuable 2017-P pennies in your pocket? Let’s dive into the details and see what makes this coin special.
The 2017-P Lincoln Penny
The 2017-P Lincoln Penny is a one-cent coin issued to honor the 225th anniversary of the U.S. Mint. It is part of the Lincoln cent series, which has been in production since 1909. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the obverse (front) of the coin features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, with the inscriptions “IN GOD WE TRUST,” “LIBERTY,” and the year 2017 along with the historic “P” mintmark under the date.
On the reverse (back), the design features the Union Shield, introduced in 2010, symbolizing national unity and strength. Unlike other Philadelphia-minted pennies, which traditionally do not have a mintmark, the 2017-P penny is the only one ever to feature a “P” on a one-cent coin, making it unique in modern U.S. coinage history.
1. First and Only “P” Mintmark on a Penny
- Before 2017, pennies minted in Philadelphia never carried a mintmark.
- To celebrate the U.S. Mint’s 225th anniversary, the Philadelphia facility added a “P” mintmark for the first time.
- This one-year-only design choice makes the 2017-P penny a modern collector’s item.
2. Limited Collector Interest Now, But Future Potential
- Because billions of these pennies were made, they are still widely available.
- However, in high-grade conditions (MS67+), these pennies can already fetch $30 to $50.
- As time passes and fewer remain in pristine condition, their value could increase.
3. Error Coins and High-Grade Varieties
- Some 2017-P pennies feature double die errors, where parts of the design appear slightly duplicated due to minting mistakes.
- Off-center strikes, die cracks, and other minting errors can significantly raise a coin’s value.
- Coins graded MS68 or higher by PCGS or NGC could become rare and desirable in the future.
4. Collector Appeal Due to Its Unique Status
- Many collectors seek out “first-of-its-kind” coins.
- The 2017-P penny is a standout due to its historical significance and unique mintmark.
- It is an affordable way for beginner collectors to own a distinctive piece of U.S. coinage history.
While the 2017-P Lincoln Penny is still found in circulation, its status as the only Philadelphia-minted penny with a “P” mintmark makes it a modern rarity. Though most are currently worth only face value, high-grade or error versions have already begun to gain collector interest. If you find one in excellent condition, it may be worth holding onto—especially since unique coins like this tend to rise in value over time. Whether you’re a casual coin enthusiast or a serious numismatist, the 2017-P penny is a fascinating addition to any collection.
FAQ’s:
1. Why does the 2017-P penny have a mintmark?
The “P” mintmark was added to pennies minted in Philadelphia for the first and only time in 2017 to celebrate the 225th anniversary of the U.S. Mint.
2. How much is a 2017-P penny worth?
Most circulated 2017-P pennies are only worth one cent, but high-grade (MS67+) examples can sell for $30 to $50. Rare error versions may fetch higher prices.
3. Are 2017-P pennies rare?
No, they are not rare in circulation since billions were minted. However, high-quality uncirculated versions and error coins are much harder to find.
4. What are the most valuable 2017-P penny errors?
The most valuable errors include doubled die varieties, off-center strikes, and die cracks. Some of these errors can increase a penny’s value significantly.
5. Should I keep my 2017-P pennies?
If you find a mint-condition 2017-P penny or one with an error, it may be worth keeping. As time passes, these unique coins could become more valuable to collectors.
