Lincoln Memorial Penny Errors
Lincoln Memorial pennies were minted from 1959 to 2008 and are still commonly found in circulation. Many error varieties exist, particularly from the 1960s-1990s when quality control was less strict.
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Scan My CoinKnown Errors
1972 Doubled Die Obverse
Strong doubling on the date, LIBERTY, and IN GOD WE TRUST. One of the most popular Lincoln cent errors.
How to check: Examine the date 1972 closely. Clear doubling should be visible, especially on the 7 and 2.
$200 - $1,500+1982 Small Date / Large Date
Both copper and zinc planchets were used in 1982, and both small and large date varieties exist, creating 7 different combinations.
How to check: Compare the size of the date numerals to known examples. The small date has a lower-positioned 8.
$0.01 - $10 for varieties; errors worth more1983 Doubled Die Reverse
Strong doubling on ONE CENT and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA on the reverse.
How to check: Flip to the reverse and examine ONE CENT with magnification. Clear shelf doubling should be visible.
$100 - $500Close AM / Wide AM
In AMERICA on the reverse, the spacing between A and M varies. Certain year/spacing combinations are rare.
How to check: Examine the AM in AMERICA on the reverse. If the letters nearly touch, it is Close AM. If separated, Wide AM. 1992 Close AM and 1998-2000 Wide AM are valuable.
$25 - $3,000+Off-Center Strike
The coin was not properly centered in the collar during striking.
How to check: Look for design shifted to one side with a crescent of blank planchet showing.
$5 - $200+ depending on percentageQuick Checks
- 1992-1999 pennies: Check AM spacing in AMERICA on reverse
- 1972 penny: Look for dramatic doubling on the date
- 1983 penny: Flip to reverse and check ONE CENT for doubling
- 1982 pennies: Weigh them — copper = 3.1g, zinc = 2.5g
- All years: Check for off-center strikes and die cracks
Frequently Asked Questions
What Lincoln memorial penny errors are valuable?
Top values include the 1972 doubled die ($200-$1,500), 1992 Close AM ($3,000+), 1999 Wide AM ($500+), and 1983 doubled die reverse ($100-$500).
Should I check my modern pennies for errors?
Yes! Many valuable errors exist in 1990s and 2000s pennies. The AM spacing varieties in particular are found in pocket change.
How can I scan my Lincoln pennies for errors?
Upload a clear photo to ErrorHunt AI. Our system checks for 67+ error types including doubled dies, off-center strikes, and variety diagnostics.
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