1988 Lincoln Cent Value Guide

The 1988 Lincoln Cent is a significant piece of modern American numismatics, representing the continued use of the copper-plated zinc composition introduced in 1982. This year is particularly sought after by collectors looking for high-grade specimens and the elusive 'Wide AM' reverse variety.

What affects the value of 1988 Lincoln Cent?

• The presence of the 'Wide AM' variety where the 'A' and 'M' in AMERICA are clearly separated.
• The overall strike quality and the absence of plating blisters or zinc rot common in this era.
• The amount of original red luster remaining on the copper plating.
• Professional grading by services like PCGS or NGC, especially for coins in MS67 or higher.

How to Identify 1988 Lincoln Cent?

• Check for the Victor David Brenner obverse portrait of Abraham Lincoln with the 1988 date.
• Verify the copper-plated zinc composition, which gives the coin a weight of approximately 2.5 grams.
• Examine the reverse for the Lincoln Memorial design, ensuring the strike is sharp on the pillars.
• Look closely at the 'FG' initials on the reverse to identify potential transition varieties from the 1989 design.

History of 1988 Lincoln Cent

The Lincoln Cent series began in 1909, celebrating the centennial of Abraham Lincoln's birth. While originally composed of 95% copper, the composition was officially changed in 1982 to a copper-plated zinc core to mitigate rising metal costs. The 1988 cent is part of this modern composition era, featuring Victor David Brenner's original obverse design and the Lincoln Memorial reverse design on the unseen side.