Elongated Penny Value Guide

The Elongated Penny featuring Abraham Lincoln is a quintessential piece of American exonumia, tracing its lineage back to the 1865 Sanitary Fairs. These copper souvenirs are highly collectible because they represent specific historical sites and the evolution of the 'pressed penny' tradition in the United States.

What Is Elongated Penny Worth?

The typical price range for Elongated Penny is $1 - $5 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The specific era of the pressing, with examples from the 1930s generally carrying more historical weight.
• The clarity and detail of the Abraham Lincoln design after the rolling process.
• The overall condition of the copper, including the presence of corrosion or significant wear.
• The rarity of the specific location or event where the coin was originally pressed.

How to Identify Elongated Penny?

• Look for the distinct oval shape created by the mechanical rolling process used between the 1930s and 1970s.
• Verify the material is copper, consistent with the original penny composition before the transition to zinc cores.
• Examine the design for a clear depiction of Abraham Lincoln, a common motif for these mid-century novelty coins.
• Check for signs of natural copper patina which indicates the age and authenticity of the pressing.

History of Elongated Penny

Elongated coins have a rich history dating back to 1865 at the Sanitary Fairs in the United States. These events were held to raise money for the Union soldiers during the Civil War. Visitors would pay a small fee to have a coin pressed with a commemorative design, creating a unique souvenir. The practice quickly gained popularity and evolved into a beloved tradition at amusement parks, tourist attractions, and historical sites worldwide. Each elongated coin tells a small story of a place visited or an event attended.