1964 Lincoln Cent Value Guide

The 1964 Lincoln Cent is a significant issue in U.S. numismatics as it marks the final year of the high-copper composition before the transition to modern alloys. Designed by Victor David Brenner and Frank Gasparro, this coin is highly collectible for its historical status as a 'pre-1982' copper penny and its iconic Lincoln Memorial reverse.

What Is 1964 Lincoln Cent Worth?

The typical price range for 1964 Lincoln Cent is $0 - $1 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of original 'Red' (RD) mint luster significantly increases value over brown circulated examples.
• Sharpness of the Lincoln Memorial steps and pillars on the reverse indicates a higher grade.
• The 95% copper content provides a base bullion value higher than face value.
• Uncirculated specimens in MS-65 or higher grades command the top end of the $0.20-$1.00 price range.

How to Identify 1964 Lincoln Cent?

• Verify the 1964 date located on the right side of the obverse profile.
• Check for the 'L' in LIBERTY positioned near the left rim of the coin.
• Confirm the Lincoln Memorial design on the reverse, which replaced the wheat stalks in 1959.
• Look for a 'D' mint mark below the date for Denver strikes or no mint mark for Philadelphia.

History of 1964 Lincoln Cent

The Lincoln Cent, first issued in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth, is one of the longest-running coin series in U.S. history. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the obverse features Lincoln's portrait, while the reverse originally featured two wheat stalks, replaced in 1959 by the Lincoln Memorial design. The 1964 Lincoln Cent is notable as it was the last year the coin was minted with 95% copper before a temporary shift to a zinc-coated steel composition in 1943 due to copper needs during World War II, and then back to bronze until 1982.