1964 Lincoln Memorial Cent Value Guide

The 1964 Lincoln Memorial Cent is a significant piece of American numismatic history, representing one of the final years the coin was minted with a high copper content before the 1982 transition to zinc. This specific issue commemorates the 155th anniversary of Lincoln's birth and features the iconic Frank Gasparro reverse design of the Lincoln Memorial.

What affects the value of 1964 Lincoln Memorial Cent?

• The presence of a 'Red' (RD) luster designation significantly increases value over 'Brown' (BN) circulated examples.
• Mint state grades, particularly MS-65 or higher, command prices above the standard $0.05-$0.15 range.
• The specific mint location, with Philadelphia and Denver being the primary producers for this high-mintage year.
• Surface preservation, including the lack of scratches, carbon spots, or heavy oxidation on the copper surfaces.

How to Identify 1964 Lincoln Memorial Cent?

• Verify the 1964 date located on the right side of the obverse field below the 'In God We Trust' motto.
• Check for the 'D' mint mark below the date for Denver strikes, or the absence of a mark for Philadelphia.
• Confirm the reverse features the Lincoln Memorial design, which replaced the previous wheat stalk motif in 1959.
• Ensure the coin is composed of 95% copper, giving it a distinct weight and reddish-brown tone compared to modern zinc pennies.

History of 1964 Lincoln Memorial Cent

The Lincoln Cent, initially featuring a wheat stalk reverse, was first minted in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. The reverse design was changed in 1959 to depict the Lincoln Memorial, celebrating the 150th anniversary of Lincoln's birth. The 1964 cent is notable for being one of the last years copper was primarily used before the composition shifted to a zinc core with a copper plating in 1982.