1964-D Lincoln Memorial Cent Value Guide

The 1964-D Lincoln Memorial Cent is a pivotal issue marking the final year the U.S. Mint produced regular coinage with a 95% copper composition before the mid-1960s coin shortage. Struck at the Denver Mint, these coins are highly collectible as the last of their era before the temporary removal of mint marks in 1965.

What affects the value of 1964-D Lincoln Memorial Cent?

• The presence of original 'Red' (RD) mint luster significantly increases value over brown, circulated examples.
• Overall strike quality and the absence of contact marks or 'bag marks' on Lincoln's cheek and the Memorial pillars.
• Market demand for high-grade Uncirculated (MS65 or higher) examples, as circulated pieces typically hold a value of $0.05 to $0.50.
• The historical status as the final 95% copper issue before the 1965-1967 mint mark suspension.

How to Identify 1964-D Lincoln Memorial Cent?

• Locate the 'D' mint mark positioned directly below the 1964 date on the obverse side.
• Verify the 95% copper, 5% zinc and tin composition which gives the coin a distinct weight and metallic ring compared to later zinc-core versions.
• Check the reverse for the detailed Lincoln Memorial design, which replaced the Wheat Ears motif in 1959.
• Look for sharp strikes on the pillars of the Memorial and Lincoln's hair for higher-grade specimens.

History of 1964-D Lincoln Memorial Cent

The Lincoln cent series began in 1909. In 1959, the reverse design was changed from the Wheat Ears to the Lincoln Memorial to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's birth. The 1964 issue is historically significant as the last year the United States Mint produced regular issue coins with the full 95% copper content before a temporary suspension of mint marks and other changes occurred due to a national coin shortage.