1979 Lincoln Cent Value Guide (Worth $0.03 to $10,925)
1979 penny values range from $0.03 melt value to $10,925 for perfect proof specimens. Learn about Type 1 vs Type 2 proofs, RPM varieties, and condition rarity premiums.
The 1979 Lincoln Cent is worth $0.03 to $10,925 depending on mint, type, grade, and condition.
- Circulated (G-4 to AU-58): $0.03 (melt value only)
- Uncirculated (MS-60 to MS-66 RD): $0.30 – $55
- Top business strikes: $2,650+ (MS-68 RD)
- Proof Type 1 (common type): $3 – $10,925 (PR-70 DCAM is extreme rarity)
- Proof Type 2 (scarcer type): $3 – $3,819 (more available in top grade)
- RPM variety (1979-D RPM-001): $15 – $250+
The 1979 cent's melt value of 3.24 cents (324% of face value) means circulated specimens have no numismatic premium. Value becomes exponential only in MS-67+ grades where condition rarities command thousands. The proof story centers on a die transition: Type 1's degraded punch makes PR-70 specimens nearly impossible, while Type 2's sharp punch produced more perfect coins.
What's Your 1979 Cent Worth?
Select your coin's mint mark and condition to get a value estimate.
Focus on choosing the right sales channel to maximize your return.
Expected: ()
1979 Lincoln Cent Value Overview
The 1979 Lincoln Memorial Cent represents a fascinating chapter in modern numismatics, characterized by massive business strike production exceeding 10 billion coins, yet creating extreme condition rarities in high grades. This copper cent's intrinsic metal value of approximately 3.24 cents—more than three times its face value—establishes an unusual bullion floor that has caused widespread hoarding.
The 1979 Lincoln Memorial Cent, composed of 95% copper
While circulated examples are worth only their copper content, the 1979 series offers two key collecting opportunities: (1) business strikes in MS-67 Red and above are significant condition rarities commanding premiums in the thousands, and (2) proof strikes feature a critical mid-year die transition creating two distinct and collectible varieties—Type 1 and Type 2. This guide provides comprehensive pricing for all mint marks, die varieties, mint errors, and special designations certified by PCGS and NGC.
How to Identify Your 1979 Lincoln Cent
The 1979 Lincoln Memorial Cent was produced at three U.S. Mint facilities, each identifiable by its mint mark location and strike type. Understanding these distinctions is essential for accurate valuation.
Mint Mark Identification
All 1979 cents display their mint mark on the obverse (front), positioned directly below the date. The San Francisco Mint produced only proof strikes for collectors in 1979—no business strikes were minted at this facility.
Mint mark location on 1979 cents: below the date on obverse
- 1979 (Philadelphia): No mint mark visible. The area below the date is blank.
- 1979-D (Denver): Small letter "D" below the date.
- 1979-S (San Francisco): Small letter "S" below the date. All 1979-S cents are proof strikes sold in collector sets.
Proof Type 1 vs Type 2 Identification
The numismatic story of 1979 centers on the San Francisco Mint's mid-year mint mark punch replacement, creating two distinct collectible varieties. This transition occurred because the original Type 1 punch had degraded into an indistinct, blob-like shape.
Type 1 'Filled S' (left) shows blob-like mint mark; Type 2 'Clear S' (right) shows sharp, well-defined mint mark
Type 1 ("Filled S"): The Type 1 mint mark is characterized by its indistinct to almost blob-like appearance. The serifs (ends of the "S") are weak and blend into the letter's body. This was the primary punch used for the majority of the 1979 proof mintage. Critical clarification: the "Filled S" nickname is a misnomer—both types can appear "filled" or "clear" in their inner loops depending on die polishing. The blob-like shape is the only reliable diagnostic.
Type 2 ("Clear S"): The Type 2 mint mark is a clear, well-defined "S" distinguished by its large bulbous serifs and rounder center loops. This new, superior punch was introduced late in 1979 and is the less common variety in total mintage.
Design Features
The obverse features Victor David Brenner's portrait of Abraham Lincoln facing right, with "IN GOD WE TRUST" above, "LIBERTY" to the left, and the date "1979" below. The reverse, designed by Frank Gasparro, displays the Lincoln Memorial building with "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" above, "E PLURIBUS UNUM" on the Memorial frieze, and "ONE CENT" below.
1979 Lincoln Cent Price Guide
Values provided are for problem-free coins certified by PCGS or NGC. Cleaned, damaged, or "details" coins have no numismatic premium and are worth only melt value. The 1979 cent's high copper content establishes a melt value of approximately $0.0324, meaning any circulated specimen has no numismatic value beyond its metal content.
1979 (Philadelphia) Business Strike
Mintage: 6,018,515,000. This coin is extremely common in all circulated grades and readily available in mint state up to MS-66 RD. It becomes scarce in MS-67 RD and is a true condition rarity in MS-68 RD, where eye appeal and lack of carbon spots command strong premiums. The auction record for this issue is $5,463 for an MS-68 RD specimen (Heritage Auctions, May 2012).
| Grade | BN (Brown) | RB (Red-Brown) | RD (Red) |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 to AU-58 | $0.03 (Melt Value) | ||
| MS-60 to MS-62 | $0.03 – $0.20 | ||
| MS-63 | $0.05 | $0.10 | $0.30 |
| MS-64 | $0.10 | $0.20 | $1.00 |
| MS-65 | $1.00 | $2.00 | $18.00 |
| MS-66 | $2.00 | $4.00 | $30.00 |
| MS-67 | $5.00 | $10.00 | $275.00 |
| MS-68 | $25.00 | $50.00 | $2,650 – $5,000+ |
1979-D (Denver) Business Strike
Mintage: 4,139,357,254. The 1979-D mirrors its Philadelphia counterpart as a significant condition rarity. The auction record for this issue is $3,995 for an MS-67+ RD (Heritage Auctions, February 2016). Note significant pricing volatility in MS-66 RD: PCGS lists $55 while NGC lists $7.50-$8.50, with recent auction data showing a $372 sale (2019) versus a higher-grade MS-67 RD at only $154 (2023), suggesting eye appeal dominates value.
| Grade | BN (Brown) | RB (Red-Brown) | RD (Red) |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 to AU-58 | $0.03 (Melt Value) | ||
| MS-60 to MS-62 | $0.03 – $0.20 | ||
| MS-63 | $0.05 | $0.10 | $2.00 |
| MS-64 | $0.10 | $0.20 | $4.00 |
| MS-65 | $2.00 | $4.00 | $28.00 |
| MS-66 | $4.00 | $8.00 | $55 (PCGS) / $8 (NGC) |
| MS-67 | $10.00 | $20.00 | $150 – $290 |
| MS-67+ | $20.00 | $40.00 | $3,950+ |
1979-S Type 1 ("Filled S") Proof
This was the primary punch used for the majority of the 1979 proof mintage of 3,677,175 coins, making it the more common variety in grades up to PR-69. However, its status inverts completely in perfect PR-70 DCAM grade. The degraded, blob-like punch made perfect strikes exceedingly rare, reflected in a PCGS population of only 62 and an auction record of $10,925(Heritage Auctions, March 2003).
| Grade | PF (Red) | CAM (Cameo) | DCAM (Deep Cameo) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PR-67 | $3 | $5 | $11 |
| PR-68 | $4 | $6 | $12 |
| PR-69 | $5 | $8 | $20 |
| PR-70 | $15 | $50 | $2,400 – $2,750+ |
1979-S Type 2 ("Clear S") Proof
This new, sharper mint mark punch was introduced late in 1979 and is the less common variety in total mintage. However, the superior punch resulted in a much higher percentage of high-quality strikes, making it more available in perfect PR-70 DCAM grade than Type 1. Auction record: $3,819 for PR-70 DCAM (Heritage Auctions, August 2013).
| Grade | PF (Red) | CAM (Cameo) | DCAM (Deep Cameo) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PR-67 | $3 | $5 | $6 |
| PR-68 | $4 | $6 | $10 |
| PR-69 | $5 | $8 | $22 |
| PR-70 | $15 | $40 | $1,350 |
Grading Your 1979 Lincoln Cent
Understanding the grading scale is essential for accurate valuation. For 1979 cents, the difference between common grades and condition rarities represents a value spread of several thousand dollars.
Grade progression: circulated G-4 (left), VF-20 (center), uncirculated MS-65 RD (right)
Circulated Grades (G-4 through AU-58)
Circulated 1979 cents are worth only their copper melt value of approximately $0.03. However, understanding wear patterns is important for distinguishing problem-free circulated coins from damaged specimens.
Good-4 (G-4): Heavy, even wear across the entire design. On the obverse, Lincoln's features are worn nearly smooth with only his outline visible. The date "1979" is barely legible. On the reverse, the Memorial's steps are completely worn away and the vertical column lines are nearly gone.
Very Fine-20 (VF-20): Moderate wear is visible on high points. On the obverse, approximately half of Lincoln's hair detail above the ear remains visible, and his cheek shows moderate wear. On the reverse, half of the Memorial's steps are visible, and the vertical lines on the columns show moderate wear.
About Uncirculated-58 (AU-58): Only slight friction appears on the highest points. On the obverse, this friction is visible on Lincoln's cheek and jaw. On the reverse, minimal abrasion appears on the top of the Memorial steps. Most of the original mint luster remains in protected areas.
Uncirculated Grades (MS-60 through MS-70)
Uncirculated grading is based on the quality of mint luster and the absence of contact marks. For 1979 cents, value becomes exponential in MS-67 Red and above, where condition rarities command premiums in the thousands.
Primary wear points: Lincoln's cheek and jaw (obverse), Memorial steps (reverse)
MS-60 to MS-62: Full mint luster is present but the coin shows numerous contact marks from bag handling. Marks may appear in focal areas such as Lincoln's face. The cartwheel luster effect (rotating bands of light) is present but may be disrupted by marks.
MS-63: Above-average luster with moderate contact marks, mostly in non-focal areas. A few light marks may appear on Lincoln's face, but they are not distracting.
MS-64: Strong luster with minor contact marks confined mostly to non-focal areas. Any marks on Lincoln's face are minimal.
MS-65: Gem quality with excellent luster and minimal contact marks. The cartwheel effect is strong and unbroken. Any marks on the obverse are tiny and located away from Lincoln's face.
MS-66: Premium gem quality with exceptional luster. Contact marks are barely visible even under magnification. Surface quality and eye appeal are outstanding.
MS-67 and MS-67+: Superb gem quality representing a condition rarity for 1979 cents. Luster is vibrant and unbroken. The coin is virtually mark-free, with perhaps one or two microscopic ticks visible only under magnification. For 1979-D, MS-67+ commands $3,950+.
MS-68: An extreme condition rarity for 1979 business strikes. The coin must be essentially flawless with blazing luster and no visible marks even under magnification. Eye appeal is exceptional. Carbon spots or specks disqualify coins from this grade. The 1979 (P) MS-68 RD auction record of $5,463 reflects this supreme rarity.
Copper Color Designations
For uncirculated copper cents, color designation is critical to value. Red (RD) coins command the highest premiums, often 10-50 times the value of Brown (BN) coins in the same numeric grade.
Copper color designations: RD (85%+ red), RB (15-85% red), BN (<15% red)
Red (RD): 85% or more of the original mint red color remains. This is the most valuable designation. The red color should be natural and vibrant, not artificially bright from cleaning.
Red-Brown (RB): 15% to 85% red color remains, with the rest showing natural brown oxidation. This represents an intermediate state of toning.
Brown (BN): Less than 15% red color remains. The coin has developed a full brown patina through natural oxidation. This color change is irreversible and cannot be "restored" through conservation.
Proof Grades and Designations
Proof coins are graded PR-60 through PR-70, with special designations for contrast quality between frosted devices and mirror fields.
Standard Proof (PF): Basic proof finish with mirror fields and frosted devices, but contrast may be minimal.
Cameo (CAM): Moderate frosted contrast between devices and fields. The "S" mint mark shows clear frosting against mirror background.
Deep Cameo (DCAM): Strong, deep frosted contrast. This is the most desirable designation for proofs. For 1979-S Type 1, a PR-70 DCAM is an extreme rarity worth $10,925 due to the degraded punch making perfect strikes nearly impossible.
1979 Lincoln Cent Die Varieties
Die varieties are created during the die-making process and represent collectible deviations from the standard design. The 1979 cent series offers limited opportunities for major varieties, with the primary focus on proof mint mark types and one significant repunched mint mark.
1979-S Proof Type 1 vs Type 2
The central numismatic story for 1979 is the mid-year transition in proof production from a degraded Type 1 mint mark punch to a superior Type 2 punch. This transition created two distinct varieties with dramatically different rarity profiles in top grades.
Type 1 "Filled S" Characteristics: The Type 1 mint mark exhibits an indistinct to almost blob-like appearance with weak serifs that blend into the letter's body. Despite being the more common variety (used for the majority of the mintage), it becomes an extreme rarity in PR-70 DCAM grade. The degraded punch made perfect strikes exceedingly rare, with only 62 examples certified by PCGS at PR-70 DCAM. Value range: $3 (PR-67) to $10,925 (PR-70 DCAM).
Type 2 "Clear S" Characteristics: The Type 2 mint mark is a clear, well-defined "S" distinguished by large bulbous serifs and rounder center loops. While less common overall (late-year introduction), the superior punch produced a higher percentage of perfect strikes, making it more available in PR-70 DCAM than Type 1. Value range: $3 (PR-67) to $3,819 (PR-70 DCAM).
Attribution Note: The "Filled S" versus "Clear S" nicknames are misnomers. Both punch types can appear "filled" or "clear" in their inner loops depending on die polishing and strike pressure. The only reliable diagnostic is the overall shape: Type 1 is blob-like and indistinct, while Type 2 has sharp, well-defined serifs.
1979-D Repunched Mint Mark (RPM-001)
The 1979-D RPM-001 is the primary "cherrypick" variety for the business strike series. Designated as FS-501 in the Cherrypickers' Guide and listed by Variety Vista as RPM-001, this variety shows a clear secondary "D" mint mark impressed to the southeast of the primary "D".
1979-D RPM-001: secondary 'D' visible southeast of primary mint mark
Attribution Guide: The repunching is easily visible with low magnification. Look for a distinct "D/D Southeast" with the secondary impression clearly visible below and to the right of the primary mint mark. Stage B of this variety (the more commonly encountered stage) is further identified by numerous die scratches running east-west on the obverse, particularly evident under the word "LIBERTY".
Value: This variety carries a significant premium above standard 1979-D cents. Circulated examples in VF-AU condition may trade for $15-$30. Uncirculated specimens are highly sought, with an NGC MS-63 RB example selling for $198(Heritage Auctions, September 2019). High-grade specimens (MS-64+) may command $150-$250+.
Doubled Dies (DDO/DDR)
A critical finding for 1979 cent collectors: there are no major, widely recognized Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) or Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) varieties listed for the 1979 (P) or 1979-D cents by authoritative attribution services. Online listings from Variety Vista (James Wiles, Ph.D.) and Wexler's Doubled Die Files—the primary registries for these varieties—show no listings for 1979 (P) or 1979-D business strikes.
Collectors should be cautious of online marketplace listings claiming "FS-101" or other major doubled die designations for 1979 business strikes. These are often misattributed or represent minor, machine-related doubling (die chatter, strike doubling) that is not recognized by PCGS, NGC, or CONECA. Such coins carry no additional numismatic premium.
1979 Lincoln Cent Mint Errors
Genuine mint errors from 1979 are collectible and carry premiums based on their severity, visual drama, and rarity. Minor errors such as small clips or minor die breaks are common and add minimal value, while major dramatic errors command strong prices from error specialists.
Common error types: off-center strike (left), clipped planchet (right)
Wrong Planchet Errors
Wrong planchet errors occur when a cent design is struck on a blank intended for a different denomination. These are among the most valuable errors for 1979 cents.
Struck on Dime Planchet: A 1979 cent struck on a Roosevelt dime (10¢) planchet sold for $360. The error is dramatic because the cent design appears on the smaller dime-sized planchet (17.9mm diameter versus the normal 19mm), causing portions of the design to be missing. Value range: $300-$400+.
Struck on Nickel Planchet: Less common than dime planchet errors but still encountered. A 1979-dated error (a nickel struck on a cent planchet, graded MS-62 BN by ANACS) sold for $184. For a cent struck on a nickel planchet, expect $150-$200+.
Major Strike Errors
Multiple Strike Errors: Coins struck multiple times with the planchet shifting between strikes create dramatic errors. A 1979 "Saddle Triple Strike" (three overlapping impressions) sold for over $300. Value range: $300-$350+ for dramatic examples.
Off-Center Strikes: Value depends on the percentage off-center and whether the date remains visible. Minor 10-15% off-center strikes in mint state bring $15-$30. Major 40-60% off-center strikes with date visible command $50-$100. Strikes over 75% off-center with no date visible have minimal collector interest.
Planchet Errors
Clipped Planchets: Occur when a coin blank is punched from a strip that overlaps a previous punch. Minor curved or ragged clips in mint state bring $10-$20. The clip must be clean and well-defined; ragged or damaged edges reduce value.
Laminations: Caused by impurities in the metal alloy creating separation between layers. Minor "peel" or flake laminations bring $5-$15. Major fold-over or detached layer laminations command $40-$75+.
Combined Major Errors
Coins exhibiting multiple error types simultaneously are particularly collectible. A 1979 cent with off-center strike plus lamination plus ragged clip, graded MS-64 RB by PCGS, sold for $192(Stack's Bowers, June 2024). Value range for combined major errors: $175-$225.
Die Breaks and Cuds
Die breaks occur when pieces of the die crack and fall away, creating raised areas on the struck coin. Minor die chips (such as a "filled D" mint mark) bring $5-$10. Major cuds (large raised areas at the rim) are more valuable but must be dramatic to command significant premiums.
Authentication and Problem Coins
Counterfeiting is not a significant concern for common-date 1979 cents due to their low individual value. The primary authentication challenges involve identifying coins that have been improperly cleaned, artificially toned, or damaged—alterations that destroy numismatic value and reduce the coin to its base copper melt value.
Left: cleaned surface showing dull, lifeless appearance; Right: original mint luster with cartwheel effect
Cleaned coins are the most common problem encountered with 1979 cents. Inexperienced collectors often attempt to "improve" the appearance of their coins through cleaning, not realizing this destroys both the original surface and the coin's collectible value. The original "cartwheel" luster—the rotating bands of light that reflect from an uncirculated coin's surface—is the first casualty of any cleaning method. Once removed, this luster can never be restored.
Visual indicators of cleaning include a dull, lifeless, or "impaired" surface where the natural luster should be present. The coin may display an unnatural color inconsistent with its level of wear, such as a bright, artificial orange or "brilliant red" appearance. Abrasive cleaning (polishing with cloth or cleaner) leaves microscopic parallel scratches across the fields, visible under magnification. Chemical dipping in acid strips the top layer of metal, leaving the surface looking sterile, porous, and unnaturally uniform. Even "conservation" attempts using olive oil or other home remedies create residues that dull the surface and prevent proper grading.
A cleaned or damaged 1979 cent will be rejected for a numerical grade by PCGS and NGC. It will be returned in a "details" holder with a notation such as "AU Details - Cleaned" or "MS Details - Environmental Damage." These problem coins have no predictable numismatic value in the marketplace and are avoided by serious collectors. Their value reverts to the base copper melt value of approximately $0.03, regardless of what the numeric grade might have been without the damage.
For high-value specimens such as MS-67+ business strikes or PR-70 proof varieties, professional grading by PCGS or NGC is essential. The cost of certification (typically $20-$40 depending on service level) is negligible compared to the value difference between problem-free gems and cleaned or damaged coins. The holder provides tamper-evident protection, grade guarantee, and market liquidity. For 1979 cents valued under $100, certification may not be cost-effective, but buyers should still carefully examine for signs of cleaning or damage before purchase.
When authenticating 1979-S proof varieties, the primary concern is correctly distinguishing Type 1 from Type 2 mint marks. While both types can appear "filled" in their inner loops depending on die polishing, the reliable diagnostic is the overall shape: Type 1 exhibits a blob-like, indistinct appearance with weak serifs, while Type 2 shows a sharp, well-defined "S" with large bulbous serifs. High-resolution images under magnification are essential for accurate attribution, particularly for specimens valued in the thousands of dollars.
Preservation and Care
Copper is one of the most reactive metals used in numismatics, making proper preservation critical for maintaining the value of uncirculated 1979 cents. The difference between a pristine MS-67 RD specimen worth hundreds of dollars and a toned MS-65 RB coin worth a fraction of that amount often comes down to storage and handling practices over decades.
The cardinal rule for handling any coin is to hold it only by the edges, never touching the obverse or reverse surfaces. Oils and acids from human skin will permanently etch the copper surface within hours, creating dark fingerprint spots that destroy the original red color and drastically reduce grade and value. Even a single fingerprint on a gem red cent can cause it to tone to red-brown or brown within months, reducing its value by 50-90%. For this reason, serious collectors use cotton gloves when examining uncirculated copper coins.
Storage environment is equally critical. Copper cents must be stored in a cool, dry environment with stable humidity. Temperature fluctuations and high humidity accelerate oxidation, causing the original red color to tone to brown. The ideal storage temperature is 65-70°F with relative humidity below 50%. Avoid storage in basements (too humid), attics (temperature extremes), or near heating vents.
The holder material is crucial for long-term preservation. Use only inert, archival-safe holders such as Mylar flips (made from polyester) or acrylic holders (slabs). Avoid soft vinyl (PVC) flips at all costs—these will leach acids over time, creating green, oily residue that permanently damages the coin's surface. PVC contamination is one of the most common forms of environmental damage seen on copper cents. If you inherit or purchase coins stored in old soft vinyl flips, immediately transfer them to inert holders. For high-value specimens such as MS-67+ business strikes or proof varieties, professional PCGS or NGC encapsulation provides optimal long-term protection in tamper-evident, inert holders.
Never attempt to clean a copper cent, even if it appears toned or spotted. As NGC Conservation notes, color changes in copper are irreversible natural oxidation processes. Any cleaning attempt—whether abrasive polishing, chemical dipping, or home remedies—will destroy the original surface and render the coin worthless as a collectible. If you have a 1979 cent that appears valuable but shows toning or spots, submit it for professional evaluation rather than attempting any home treatment. Professional conservation can sometimes stabilize environmental damage but cannot restore original surfaces once they've been cleaned or altered.
Recent Auction Results for 1979 Cents
Auction records provide crucial market data for valuing high-grade 1979 cents and understanding the premiums commanded by condition rarities and proof varieties. The following notable sales demonstrate the significant value spread between common circulated specimens and top-grade examples.
Business Strike Records: A 1979 (P) MS-68 RD sold for $5,463(Heritage Auctions, May 2012), establishing the current record for Philadelphia mint business strikes. For Denver mint issues, the record is $3,995 for an MS-67+ RD (Heritage Auctions, February 2016). These records underscore the extreme condition rarity of MS-67+ specimens, where even a half-grade difference represents thousands of dollars in value.
Proof Type 1 Records: The 1979-S Type 1 "Filled S" PR-70 DCAM auction record of $10,925(Heritage Auctions, March 2003) reflects the extreme difficulty of achieving perfect grade with the degraded mint mark punch. With only 62 examples certified at PR-70 DCAM by PCGS, this represents one of the most significant condition rarities in the modern Lincoln cent series.
Proof Type 2 Records: The 1979-S Type 2 "Clear S" PR-70 DCAM record is $3,819(Heritage Auctions, August 2013). While still substantial, this lower value compared to Type 1 reflects the superior punch's ability to produce more perfect strikes, making top-grade examples less rare despite the Type 2's overall scarcity.
Variety and Error Records: A 1979-D RPM-001 graded NGC MS-63 RB sold for $198(Heritage Auctions, September 2019), confirming strong collector demand for this repunched mint mark variety. For mint errors, a 1979 cent with combined off-center strike, lamination, and ragged clip errors graded MS-64 RB sold for $192(Stack's Bowers, June 2024).
Market Note on MS-66 RD Volatility: Recent auction data for 1979-D MS-66 RD specimens shows significant volatility, with a $372 sale in 2019 followed by a higher-grade MS-67 RD selling for only $154 in 2023 (NGC Coin Explorer). This suggests that eye appeal—particularly the absence of carbon spots or toning—dominates value in high grades, making price guide figures unreliable. Collectors should view and evaluate specific coins rather than relying solely on published grade-based values.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1979 penny worth?
Most 1979 pennies are worth only their copper melt value of approximately $0.03 (3 cents). This applies to all circulated coins and common uncirculated specimens up to MS-64. Value increases significantly only in high uncirculated grades: MS-65 RD is worth $18-$28, MS-66 RD is worth $30-$55, and MS-67+ RD specimens command $150-$3,995+. Proof specimens (1979-S only) range from $3 in lower grades to $10,925 for a perfect PR-70 DCAM Type 1.
How do I identify the mint mark on a 1979 Lincoln Cent?
The mint mark is located on the obverse (front) of the coin, directly below the date "1979". If no mint mark is present, the coin was struck at Philadelphia. A small "D" indicates Denver Mint production. A small "S" indicates San Francisco Mint production, but note that all 1979-S cents are proof strikes sold in collector sets—no business strikes were produced at San Francisco in 1979.
What's the difference between 1979-S Type 1 and Type 2 proofs?
The difference lies in the mint mark punch used. Type 1 ("Filled S") has a blob-like, indistinct mint mark with weak serifs—this was a degraded punch used for the majority of the mintage. Type 2 ("Clear S") has a sharp, well-defined "S" with large bulbous serifs and rounder center loops—this was a new punch introduced late in 1979. Paradoxically, Type 1 is more common overall but extremely rare in perfect PR-70 DCAM grade (only 62 certified by PCGS), while Type 2 is scarcer overall but more available in top grade due to the superior punch quality.
Should I get my 1979 penny professionally graded?
Professional grading is recommended only for coins that appear to be in exceptional condition. For business strikes, consider grading if the coin appears to be MS-66 or better with full red color and no carbon spots. For proofs, grading is worthwhile for specimens that appear PR-69 or PR-70 with deep cameo contrast. The cost of certification ($20-$40) is only justified if the potential value exceeds $100. Circulated coins and common uncirculated specimens worth $0.03-$5 should not be graded.
Why is my 1979 penny worth more than 1 cent?
The 1979 penny contains 2.9545 grams of copper, which has a melt value of approximately $0.0324 based on copper spot prices. This is 324% of the coin's face value. While melting U.S. cents is illegal, this intrinsic metal value establishes a floor price of 3 cents for any 1979 penny regardless of condition. Numismatic premiums above melt value apply only to high-grade uncirculated specimens, proof varieties, and error coins.
How should I store my copper 1979 pennies?
Store copper cents in inert holders such as Mylar flips or acrylic holders in a cool (65-70°F), dry environment (below 50% relative humidity). Never use soft vinyl (PVC) flips, as they leach acids that cause green residue and permanent damage. Handle coins only by their edges using cotton gloves—fingerprints cause permanent toning within hours. Never clean copper coins; any cleaning attempt destroys original surfaces and eliminates numismatic value.
Are there any valuable error varieties of 1979 pennies?
Yes. The main business strike variety is the 1979-D RPM-001, showing a repunched "D" mint mark with a secondary impression visible to the southeast. This variety is worth $15-$30 circulated and $40-$250+ uncirculated. Major mint errors include wrong planchet strikes (struck on dime or nickel planchet, worth $150-$400+), multiple strikes ($300-$350+), and combined major errors ($175-$225). Note that no major doubled die varieties (DDO/DDR) are recognized for 1979 by authoritative attribution services.
How can I tell if my 1979 penny has been cleaned?
Signs of cleaning include lack of natural cartwheel luster (rotating bands of light), dull or "impaired" surface appearance, unnatural bright orange or "brilliant red" color inconsistent with wear level, hairline scratches across fields (from abrasive cleaning), or sterile, porous appearance (from chemical dipping). Cleaned coins are rejected for numerical grades by PCGS and NGC and are worth only melt value regardless of their appearance. Never clean coins—it destroys both surface and value.
What is the rarest 1979 Lincoln Cent?
The rarest 1979 cent in terms of population and value is the 1979-S Type 1 "Filled S" in PR-70 DCAM grade, with only 62 examples certified by PCGS and an auction record of $10,925. This extreme rarity exists because the degraded mint mark punch made perfect strikes nearly impossible. For business strikes, MS-68 RD specimens of either Philadelphia or Denver mint are extreme condition rarities worth $2,650-$5,463.
Can I melt my 1979 pennies for their copper value?
No. While 1979 pennies contain copper worth approximately 3 times their face value, melting U.S. cents is illegal under federal law. The U.S. Mint prohibits the melting or mass export of one-cent and five-cent coins. Violators face fines up to $10,000 and/or imprisonment. However, it is legal to collect and hold copper cents as a commodity investment or numismatic items.
Research Methodology and Sources
This guide synthesizes data from authoritative numismatic sources including PCGS CoinFacts (pcgs.com/coinfacts), NGC Coin Explorer (ngccoin.com/coin-explorer), Variety Vista (varietyvista.com), and Wexler's Doubled Die Files (doubleddie.com). Price data reflects PCGS and NGC price guides, verified auction records from Heritage Auctions and Stack's Bowers, and retail market reports current as of 2024-2025. Mintage figures are sourced from official U.S. Mint reports. Copper spot prices are based on data from Money Metals Exchange (moneymetals.com/copper-prices) and reflect October 2025 pricing.
Grading standards follow official PCGS and NGC guidelines (ngccoin.com/coin-grading-guide/grading-lincoln-cents), with additional diagnostic information from the Lincoln Cent Forum (lincolncentforum.com/lincoln-cent-grading-guide). Die variety attributions follow Ken Potter's research (koinpro.tripod.com) and James Wiles' Variety Vista database. Conservation and preservation guidance is based on NGC Conservation protocols (ngccoin.com/ngc-conservation) and Bank of Canada Museum guidelines (bankofcanadamuseum.ca/2023/04/caring-for-your-coins).
All valuations represent approximate retail market prices for problem-free, certified coins as of publication date. Coin values fluctuate based on copper spot prices, market demand, and collector trends. Auction records cited represent realized prices including buyer's premium where applicable. Readers should verify current market prices before buying or selling. For high-value specimens, professional appraisal and certification by PCGS or NGC is recommended before transaction.
