1961 Lincoln Cent
Base
About This Coin
The 1961 Lincoln Cent is a United States cent from the Lincoln Memorial Cents 1959-2008 series — an early issue, 3rd of 50 years in the series. In 1961, coins were struck at the Philadelphia and Denver Mints with a combined mintage of 2.5 billion. This ranks 47th of 50 years by total mintage, above the series median of 3.7 million. The obverse features Abraham Lincoln facing right and the reverse displays the Lincoln Memorial building in Washington, D.C.. Standard production from Philadelphia and Denver with proofs from San Francisco. Struck in 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Collectors have cataloged 146 known die varieties for this date across 8 categories, including bisecting rim to rim die crack, doubled die obverse, doubled die reverse and 5 other types. Across its variants, estimated values range from $0 to $2 depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $4.0K in PCGS Genuine grade at eBay. Designed by Victor David Brenner/Frank Gasparro.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — range across all strike types, reflecting typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
