1978 Lincoln Memorial Cent Value Guide

The 1978 Lincoln Memorial Cent is a significant piece of American numismatic history, representing the long-standing Frank Gasparro reverse design introduced for the 50th anniversary of the series. While common in circulation, high-grade uncirculated examples are sought after by collectors looking to complete date-and-mint sets from the late 1970s.

What affects the value of 1978 Lincoln Memorial Cent?

• Numerical grade from services like PCGS or NGC, with MS-65 or higher commanding premiums.
• Presence of original red luster versus brown or red-brown oxidation.
• Minting location, as Philadelphia and Denver strikes have different survival rates in top condition.
• Presence of rare mint errors such as double dies or off-center strikes.

How to Identify 1978 Lincoln Memorial Cent?

• Verify the 1978 date on the obverse below the 'In God We Trust' motto.
• Check for the Lincoln Memorial building on the reverse, which replaced the Wheat Ears design in 1959.
• Inspect the coin for a 'D' mint mark for Denver or no mint mark for Philadelphia.
• Confirm the material is copper-plated zinc, consistent with the late-era Lincoln Memorial production.

History of 1978 Lincoln Memorial Cent

The Lincoln Cent, first issued in 1909 to commemorate Abraham Lincoln's 100th birthday, is one of the longest-running coin series in US history. The Lincoln Memorial reverse, designed by Frank Gasparro, was introduced in 1959 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Lincoln Cent and replaced the original Wheat Ears design. This reverse remained in use until 2008.