10 Rare Coins For You To Find In The Lincoln Memorial Penny Series

The Lincoln Memorial penny series, minted from 1959 to 2008, holds a treasure trove of hidden gems that many collectors still overlook. While millions of these coins were produced each year, a few rare and valuable varieties slipped into circulation due to minting errors, design changes, and limited releases. These rare pennies can be worth hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars today, making them an exciting focus for coin collectors and hobbyists.

Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or just starting your coin-hunting journey, identifying these hidden rarities can be both fun and financially rewarding. In this blog, we’ll highlight 10 rare coins from the Lincoln Memorial penny series that you should be looking for in your spare change, old coin jars, or rolls from the bank. Keep reading to learn what makes each coin special, how to spot them, and why they’re considered prized finds in the world of coin collecting.

1. 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse

One of the most sought-after rarities in the Lincoln Memorial penny series is the 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse. This error coin was created when the hub that struck the die was misaligned, resulting in a strong doubling of the date, the word “LIBERTY,” and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” What makes this coin special is that the doubling is very clear and easy to see with the naked eye, which is not common among most doubled die coins.

Only a small number of these coins were released into circulation before the mint discovered the error, making them incredibly rare and valuable today. It was minted in San Francisco, as indicated by the “S” mintmark. Depending on its condition, this coin can be worth thousands, with high-grade examples selling for over $35,000 at auctions. Collectors consider this one of the “Holy Grails” of the Lincoln Memorial penny series.

2. 1970-S Small Date

The 1970-S Small Date penny is another coin that collectors actively seek out due to its subtle design differences and scarcity. The U.S. Mint released both “Small Date” and “Large Date” versions in 1970 from the San Francisco Mint. The difference between the two lies in the shape and positioning of the date. On the Small Date version, the top of the “7” is level with the “0,” and the word “LIBERTY” appears weakly struck.

Because the Small Date was produced in significantly lower quantities than the Large Date, it is much harder to find in circulation today. The most valuable examples are those that remain in uncirculated or proof condition, and some can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars. To accurately identify this variety, collectors often use a magnifying glass and reference comparison images. It’s a rewarding find for any Lincoln Memorial penny hunter.

3. 1983 Doubled Die Reverse

Unlike many other rare Lincoln cents, which feature doubling on the obverse (front), the 1983 Doubled Die Reverse shows the doubling on the back of the coin. This doubling is most visible in the inscriptions “ONE CENT,” “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.” What makes this error coin unique is that it occurred after the Mint transitioned to the copper-plated zinc composition in 1982. The coin was struck in Philadelphia, and there is no mintmark.

The doubling is very distinct and easy to identify even without magnification in some cases. Because this variety was not discovered until years after its release, many circulated examples exist, but they are still valuable. In high grades, this coin can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on market demand and condition. It’s one of the few doubled die varieties from the 1980s, making it a prime target for modern penny collectors.

4. 1972 Doubled Die Obverse

The 1972 Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln cent is a favorite among error coin collectors due to its dramatic and visible doubling. Most noticeable in the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” as well as the date “1972,” the doubling on this coin is sharp and obvious without needing a magnifying glass. This variety was struck in Philadelphia, as no mintmark appears on the coin. Multiple different doubled die varieties were produced in 1972, but only the strongest doubling (known as “Die 1”) is considered especially valuable.

Thousands of these coins entered circulation before being noticed, and while circulated examples are relatively common, high-grade, uncirculated versions are much harder to find. Depending on the grade, this coin can be worth anywhere from $100 to several thousand dollars. It’s a classic example of a major error that happened due to misalignment during the die production process and remains a key find.

5. 1992 Close AM

The 1992 Close AM penny is a rare variety resulting from a reverse design intended for proof coins being accidentally used on regular circulation strikes. On this coin, the letters “A” and “M” in “AMERICA” on the reverse are much closer together than usual, almost touching. Most 1992 Lincoln cents have a wide separation between these letters, making this error stand out when compared side-by-side.

The Close AM reverse was supposed to be used only on proof coins, but a few mistakenly made their way onto business strike coins from both the Philadelphia and Denver Mints. Very few of these coins are known to exist, and they are worth significant amounts—sometimes over $10,000 depending on condition. Because the difference is subtle, many of these coins could still be sitting unnoticed in penny jars or coin rolls, waiting to be discovered by sharp-eyed collectors.

6. 1995 Doubled Die Obverse

The 1995 Doubled Die Obverse penny is one of the most widely known and accessible doubled die errors from the Lincoln Memorial series. This error features strong doubling on the obverse side, especially on the word “LIBERTY” and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The doubling is very prominent, which helped it gain popularity among collectors soon after its discovery. It was minted in Philadelphia and does not have a mintmark.

What’s great about this variety is that it was widely distributed before the Mint noticed the error, so many still exist in circulation. While circulated examples may only be worth a few dollars, uncirculated versions—especially those in MS65 condition or higher—can sell for over $100. Because of its visibility and the fact that many people remember it from the 1990s, the 1995 doubled die is often the first major error coin new collectors look for in the Lincoln Memorial series.

7. 1982-D Small Date Copper

The 1982-D Small Date Copper penny is a transitional error that combines features from two different types of pennies. In 1982, the U.S. Mint changed the composition of the Lincoln cent from 95% copper to 97.5% zinc with a thin copper coating. That year, both “Large Date” and “Small Date” designs were used, and they were struck on both metal types. The Denver Mint (marked by a “D”) was not supposed to strike Small Date coins on copper planchets.

However, a few examples were mistakenly minted and released. These coins are very rare, and only a handful have been confirmed. A genuine 1982-D Small Date Copper penny can be worth more than $10,000. To identify one, collectors need a scale—genuine copper cents weigh about 3.11 grams, while zinc cents weigh 2.5 grams. This coin is a fascinating example of a mint error and a major prize in any Lincoln cent collection.

8. 1960 Small Date

The 1960 Small Date Lincoln Memorial penny is another variety that sparks the interest of collectors. During that year, both Large Date and Small Date designs were issued by the Philadelphia and Denver Mints. The Small Date version features a more compact date with the “0” in “1960” sitting higher and appearing more oval. Although the coin isn’t extremely rare on its own, it becomes valuable when found in proof condition or combined with other traits, such as a doubled die or high-grade preservation.

The Small Date version was initially overlooked, but as more collectors began identifying the difference, demand increased. While circulated examples are worth a modest premium, proof or mint-state coins can bring in significant value. It is a great entry point for collectors looking to start identifying subtle varieties in Lincoln cents and is an educational tool for learning how small design differences can lead to big rewards.

9. 1971-S Doubled Die Obverse (Proof)

The 1971-S Doubled Die Obverse is a rare proof coin that was produced at the San Francisco Mint. It features doubling on the obverse, particularly visible in “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.” Being a proof coin, it was struck with greater care and detail, making the doubling even more apparent under magnification. Because proof coins were not meant for circulation, all examples of this variety should be found in proof sets or collections.

Despite being a proof issue, very few examples of this doubled die have been discovered, increasing its rarity and market value. Well-preserved coins can fetch high prices—sometimes over $2,000—especially when certified by grading services. The fact that this is both a proof and an error coin makes it especially attractive to advanced collectors. It’s an excellent reminder to carefully inspect even proof coins for potential minting anomalies.

10. 1984 Doubled Ear

The 1984 Doubled Ear Lincoln cent is an unusual error variety where Abraham Lincoln’s earlobe appears doubled. Unlike other doubled die coins where text is affected, this coin’s most notable feature is on the portrait itself. The doubling is clear and creates the appearance of a second earlobe just below the first one. This variety was produced at the Philadelphia Mint and does not have a mintmark. Because the doubling affects a part of the design that is often overlooked, many of these coins slipped through unnoticed.

Today, it is a highly sought-after variety, with uncirculated examples commanding significant premiums. A sharp eye is needed to identify this coin, but its unique appearance makes it a favorite among collectors. In mint condition, it can be worth $200 or more. It stands out as one of the most visually interesting doubled die errors in the Lincoln Memorial penny series.

Conclusion

Finding a rare coin in the Lincoln Memorial penny series can feel like uncovering buried treasure. With the right knowledge and a keen eye, everyday collectors can discover valuable coins hiding in plain sight. From dramatic doubling errors to rare date varieties, these pennies prove that even small change can hold big surprises.

As you sort through your collection or pocket change, remember that rarity, condition, and demand all influence a coin’s value. Start searching today—you never know what rare coin might be waiting for you!