Which 1960s Pennies Are Valuable?

Coin collecting offers a journey into history, as even common currency can hold unexpected value. Many people discover an interest in numismatics through examining pocket change or inherited collections. Pennies from the 1960s are surprising finds, as issues from this decade are sought after by collectors. Understanding what makes these coins valuable can transform a casual glance into a rewarding treasure hunt.

Key Elements of Penny Value

A coin’s condition determines its worth, often described through a grading scale ranging from circulated to uncirculated. Circulated coins show wear from everyday use, while uncirculated coins, also known as Mint State (MS), show no wear from circulation. The American Numismatic Association’s 70-point Sheldon Scale is used to grade coins, with higher numbers indicating better preservation and greater value. Even slight differences in wear can impact a coin’s market price, highlighting the importance of careful handling and storage.

Mint marks, letters indicating origin, also determine rarity and value. “D” signifies the Denver Mint, and “S” denotes the San Francisco Mint, while coins minted in Philadelphia often had no mint mark during certain periods. No mint marks appeared on circulating coins from 1965 to 1967. In 1968, the placement of mint marks on pennies moved from the reverse to the obverse, near the date.

Beyond condition and mint marks, errors and varieties increase a coin’s appeal and value. Mint errors are deviations from the standard manufacturing process, such as doubled dies, off-center strikes, or planchet errors. Varieties include subtle distinctions like repunched mint marks or overdates, where an old date is visible beneath a new one. These anomalies are often scarce, making them desirable to collectors.

Identifying Valuable 1960s Pennies

Several 1960s pennies stand out for their potential value, due to date variations, mint marks, or striking anomalies. The 1960 Lincoln Cent, from Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (“D” mint mark), is known for its “Small Date” and “Large Date” varieties. The 1960 Small Date penny is scarcer, especially the Philadelphia issue. To identify the Small Date, examine the last two digits: the “0” in the Small Date appears more oval or “skinnier,” and the top of the “1” is level with the “9”. Conversely, the Large Date has a rounder “0,” the “9” may appear taller than the “1,” and the tail of the “6” is longer.

Another sought-after coin is the 1969-S Doubled Die Obverse Lincoln Cent. This error is characterized by a clear doubling of the date and the “LIBERTY” inscription on the obverse. The doubling is distinct enough to be seen without magnification. This doubled die is a notable error and commands higher premiums in the numismatic market.

While most 1968 pennies have low value, uncirculated and proof specimens, particularly from San Francisco (“S” mint mark), are desirable. Proof coins, which are specially struck for collectors, achieve higher values, with Deep Cameo (DCAM) versions showing strong contrast between the frosted design and mirror-like fields. The absence of a mint mark on a 1968 penny is not an error, as Philadelphia-minted coins from that year did not bear one. However, rare instances of a 1968 penny missing an expected mint mark from Denver or San Francisco would be notable.

Care and Valuation of Your Finds

Proper handling and preservation are important for maintaining a coin’s value. Never clean old coins, as this can reduce their worth by damaging the surface, removing original patina, or leaving abrasive marks. Professional graders and dealers can easily detect cleaned coins, which often results in a discount on their value. Instead, handle coins by their edges, preferably while wearing clean cotton gloves, to prevent oils and dirt from transferring to the coin.

For storage, use protective holders such as Mylar sleeves or hard plastic slabs, avoiding soft plastic albums that degrade and damage the coin. If you believe you have found a valuable penny, initial valuation can be done using reputable online price guides or numismatic catalogs. These resources provide estimated values based on condition and known varieties. However, these are estimates, and actual market value can vary.

For potentially valuable finds, seeking a professional appraisal from a reputable coin dealer or a certified numismatist is recommended. Organizations like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) offer professional grading services that authenticate and assign a grade to your coin, which is important for determining its market value. Appraisals can be conducted at secure locations such as coin shops or bank vaults. Once a value has been established, avenues for selling include local coin dealers, online auction platforms, or consigning to auction houses for high-value items.