1968 D Lincoln Memorial Cent Value Guide

The 1968 D Lincoln Memorial Cent is a staple of mid-century American numismatics, representing the tenth year of Frank Gasparro's iconic memorial reverse design. Minted in Denver, these coins are highly collectible for their high copper content and their place within the longest-running coin series in United States history.

What affects the value of 1968 D Lincoln Memorial Cent?

• Condition and grade, with uncirculated specimens fetching the highest premiums over face value.
• Presence of original red luster, which is more desirable than brown or toned surfaces.
• The existence of mint errors, such as doubled dies or planchet defects, which can significantly increase value.
• Overall strike sharpness, particularly the fine details of the Lincoln Memorial pillars.

How to Identify 1968 D Lincoln Memorial Cent?

• Locate the 'D' mint mark positioned directly below the 1968 date on the obverse side.
• Check the reverse for the Lincoln Memorial building design, which replaced the earlier Wheat stalks in 1959.
• Verify the composition is 95% copper and 5% zinc, weighing approximately 3.11 grams.
• Look for the designer's initials 'FG' to the right of the memorial steps on the reverse.

History of 1968 D Lincoln Memorial Cent

The Lincoln cent was first introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth, making it the longest-running coin series in United States history. Designed by Victor David Brenner, the original reverse featured two wheat stalks, giving it the nickname 'Wheat Penny'. In 1959, to celebrate Lincoln's 150th birthday and the 50th anniversary of the coin, the reverse design was changed to depict the Lincoln Memorial, designed by Frank Gasparro. This design continued until 2009 when four new reverse designs were issued to commemorate Lincoln's bicentennial. In 2010, the current Union Shield reverse was introduced.