1960-D Lincoln Cent Value Guide

The 1960-D Lincoln Cent is a cornerstone of the Lincoln Memorial series, marking only the second year of the iconic building's appearance on the reverse. This specific Denver issue is highly regarded by numismatists due to the mid-year modification of the working hub, which created distinct Small Date and Large Date varieties.

What Is 1960-D Lincoln Cent Worth?

The typical price range for 1960-D Lincoln Cent is $1 - $3 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Variety type, as the Small Date variety is significantly scarcer and more valuable than the common Large Date.
• The presence of original mint luster, which can elevate the price above the standard $1-$3 range for circulated coins.
• Surface preservation, specifically the absence of heavy scratches, corrosion, or 'zinc rot' spots.
• The sharpness of the Lincoln Memorial steps and columns on the reverse strike.

How to Identify 1960-D Lincoln Cent?

• Locate the 'D' mint mark positioned directly below the date on the obverse side.
• Examine the '0' in the date; the Large Date variety features a rounder interior, while the Small Date is more oval.
• Check the alignment of the top of the '1' and '9' in the date to distinguish between the two hub varieties.
• Verify the copper-zinc composition, which gives the coin its distinct reddish-brown or brown patina in circulated grades.

History of 1960-D Lincoln Cent

The Lincoln Cent, first issued in 1909, honored the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. The reverse design featuring the Lincoln Memorial, which succeeded the Wheat Ears design, was introduced in 1959. The 1960 issue is particularly famous among numismatists for having two distinct date varieties, the Small Date and the Large Date, resulting from a modification to the working hub during production. While the Small Date is significantly scarcer, the one pictured appears to be the more common Large Date variety.