Elongated Pennies Value Guide

Elongated pennies, first popularized at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition, are iconic American souvenirs created by flattening coins into embossed oval shapes. These 'pressed pennies' are highly collectible due to their unique mechanical transformation and their role as affordable mementos from specific historical sites and theme parks.

What affects the value of Elongated Pennies?

• The age of the coin, with early 20th-century 'pioneer' or 'old-timer' elongateds fetching higher prices than modern versions.
• The specific location or event depicted, as retired designs from closed attractions are more scarce and valuable.
• The condition of the copper, including the presence of original luster versus heavy oxidation or 'zinc rot' on newer coins.
• The denomination of the original coin used, as elongated nickels, dimes, or quarters are less common than standard pennies.

How to Identify Elongated Pennies?

• Look for the distinct oval shape and flattened profile characteristic of a hand-cranked or electric press machine.
• Examine the embossed design for specific location markers, such as museums, tourist attractions, or commemorative event names.
• Check the base metal; older examples are typically solid copper, while post-1982 pennies may show zinc streaks where the plating stretched.
• Verify the presence of a 'border' of dots or a solid line, which is a common design element in authentic souvenir press dies.

History of Elongated Pennies

The tradition of creating elongated coins dates back to 1893 during the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. These novelty items, often called 'pressed pennies' or 'souvenir pennies,' are created by inserting a coin, usually a penny, into a small machine that flattens and embosses it with a new design. They are popular souvenirs found at tourist attractions, museums, and theme parks worldwide, offering an affordable and unique memento of a visit.