1973-D Lincoln Memorial Cent Value Guide

The 1973-D Lincoln Memorial Cent is a classic copper-alloy coin featuring Frank Gasparro's iconic reverse design of the Lincoln Memorial. With a massive mintage of over 3.5 billion from the Denver Mint, it remains a staple for collectors seeking to complete high-grade sets of 20th-century American coinage.

What affects the value of 1973-D Lincoln Memorial Cent?

• The presence of original mint red (RD) luster significantly increases value over brown (BN) circulated examples.
• Overall strike quality and the absence of contact marks or 'bag marks' on Lincoln's cheek.
• The coin's grade, with specimens reaching MS-65 or higher commanding the top end of the $0.05 price range.
• Environmental damage or oxidation, which can quickly reduce the value to its face worth of one cent.

How to Identify 1973-D Lincoln Memorial Cent?

• Look for the 'D' mint mark located directly below the date on the obverse side.
• Verify the copper-zinc composition, which gives the coin a distinct reddish-brown or bright copper luster when uncirculated.
• Check the reverse for the detailed Lincoln Memorial building, ensuring the tiny statue of Lincoln is visible in the center.
• Confirm the 1973 date is crisp and matches the standard United States Mint font for that era.

History of 1973-D Lincoln Memorial Cent

The Lincoln Memorial cent replaced the Wheat cent in 1959 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. Designed by Frank Gasparro, the reverse features the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The 1973-D mintage was high, with over 3.5 billion coins produced at the Denver Mint.