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Do you have a 1964 penny and want to know what it’s worth?
It’s possible that yours might be a type of rare 1964 penny — worth more than $5,000. Or you might just have a regular, worn 1964 penny — worth 2 to 3 cents.
But you won’t know for sure unless you find out more about 1964 pennies, what they’re worth, and which 1964 pennies are especially rare and valuable.
1964 Penny Values
Most worn 1964 pennies are worth the value of their copper content — or 2 to 3 cents, like other copper-based Lincoln Memorial pennies struck from 1959 through 1982. They weigh approximately 3.11 grams.
But some 1964 penny values are much higher. We’ll talk more about this in a minute and explain why some of these rare pennies are worth so much:
- 1964 Philadelphia penny (no mintmark) – 2,648,575,000 (2.6 billion) minted; 10 to 25+ cents
- 1964-D penny (Denver mintmark under the date) – 3,799,071,500 (about 3.8 billion) minted; 10 to 25+ cents
- 1964 proof penny – 3,950,762 minted; $1+
- 1964 SMS penny (special mint set) – approximately 30 estimated to be minted; $5,000+
*Values are for coins in uncirculated grade, proof finish, and special mint set finish. Circulated 1964 pennies with no errors or special varieties are worth approximately 2 to 3 cents.
As you can see, the 1964 Lincoln penny was struck by the billions upon billions. Virtually all of these pennies went into circulation and can still be found in your pocket change. In fact, the 1964 Lincoln cent is one of the most common pre-1982 Lincoln Memorial pennies you’ll find in circulation today!
And, as in most years, the United States Mint struck a limited number of 1964 proof pennies as well.
Then there are the 1964 SMS pennies. What exactly are those?
The Story Behind The Rare 1964 SMS Penny
Yes, the 1964 SMS penny really is rare — and it really is worth $5,000!
So now you’re probably wondering what, exactly, a 1964 SMS penny is and how you can find one.
It’s a long story, but I’ll zip right to the main points:
- There was a major coin shortage in the early 1960s — due to silver hoarders removing 90% silver dimes, quarters, and half dollars from circulation.
- Some U.S. Mint officials blamed coin collectors for the coin shortage.
- To focus efforts on making more circulating coinage, the U.S. Mint temporarily stopped producing the long-popular annual uncirculated sets and proof sets, and streamlined the production of coin sets to just a single collector product known as a “Special Mint Set” (SMS).
- The Special Mint Sets of the 1960s include one coin of each denomination — and the SMS coins bear a satin-like (sometimes proof-like) finish.
Why they were made is unknown for sure. 1964 SMS pennies and other 1964 SMS coins may have been made as prototype coins for the 1965 Special Mint Sets. Or, perhaps they were intended for a 1964 Special Mint Set possibly including the 1964 Peace dollar. We’ll probably never know the true origin of 1964 SMS pennies for sure.
How To Identify A 1964 SMS Penny
Wondering how can you tell a 1964 SMS penny from a regular 1964 penny?
First, it should be noted that 1964 SMS pennies have normally appeared only in 1964 SMS sets. Therefore, 1964 SMS pennies aren’t the types of coins you will find in ordinary pocket change.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t find these rare 1964 pennies — if you’re lucky, of course! 1964 SMS pennies have turned up before in estates and in other seemingly ordinary situations.
Here’s how to tell SMS pennies apart from regular 1964 pennies and 1964 proof pennies:
- 1964 SMS pennies have a satin finish and are not reflective (or mirror-like) — as 1964 proof pennies are.
- The overall strike and details on the 1964 SMS penny are much sharper than on a circulation strike.
- One of the areas where the strong details show really well on the 1964 SMS penny is its rim. The rims of the 1964 SMS penny are more square in profile — similar to a 1964 proof penny.
So now you know… a 1964 SMS penny isn’t really the type of coin that you just find one day in your grandmother’s attic drawer and then flip at your local coin dealer for $5,000 in cash.
If you think you have a 1964 SMS penny, you should have it certified by a reputable 3rd-party coin grading firm such as PCGS, NGC, ICG, or ANACS.
Then, if you wish to sell it, enter it in a coin auction or offer it to a coin dealer who can pay you what it’s really worth:
- Some 1964 SMS pennies are worth $1,500 or $3,000.
- Others are worth more than the $5,000 average value listed here.
- The record price for a 1964 SMS penny is $11,500 — paid at an auction in 2005 for a “Red” specimen in MS-67. (Talk about a pretty penny!)
IMPORTANT: Do You Know The Grade Of Your Penny?
To determine the true value of your 1964 penny, you first need to know what condition (or grade) your coin is in.
Grab a coin magnifier and a copy of the U.S. Coin Grading Standards book. Then, watch this video to see how to grade coins yourself at home:
More Info About The 1964 Penny
In addition to the links I’ve included above, here are some other resources to help you learn more about your 1964 pennies:
- Which Old Pennies Are The Most Valuable?
- Old Copper Pennies: Which Ones To Save & What They’re Worth
- 5 Rare Coins You’ll Find In The Lincoln Memorial Cent Series
- A List Of 43 U.S. Pennies You Should Hold On To
READ NEXT: The Ultimate List Of U.S. Penny Errors
I’m the Coin Editor here at TheFunTimesGuide. My love for coins began when I was 11 years old. I primarily collect and study U.S. coins produced during the 20th century. I’m a member of the American Numismatic Association (ANA) and the Numismatic Literary Guild (NLG) and have won multiple awards from the NLG for my work as a coin journalist. I’m also the editor at the Florida United Numismatists Club (FUN Topics magazine), and author of Images of America: The United States Mint in Philadelphia (a book that explores the colorful history of the Philadelphia Mint). I’ve contributed hundreds of articles for various coin publications including COINage, The Numismatist, Numismatic News, Coin Dealer Newsletter, Coin Values, and CoinWeek. I’ve authored nearly 1,000 articles here at The Fun Times Guide to Coins (many of them with over 50K shares), and I welcome your coin questions in the comments below!
Hello Josh this is Lewis again I’m sorry I haven’t been able to get back to you right away unfortunately I’m unable to send you those pictures of that Penny for some reason I’m unable to send them to the address I’m not sure what’s going on with it sorry is there possibly another way thanks Lewis
No worries, Lewis… Hmm — I don’t know why the photos don’t upload here unless they are very large files. You might consider sending me cropped screenshots of the photos, which should be files that are small enough to be attached to a comment here.
Thanks!
Josh
OK thanks Josh what I will do later on today is take some new pics and try sending them to you
thanks again for your time Lewis
You’re welcome, Lewis!
Has anyone heard of a tin penny
Hi Morris,
The closest thing I know of is a 1943 steel cent. Is this what you’re talking about? Here’s some more info: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/1943-penny-value/
Have a great day,
Josh
I’ve got a 1943 still penny for sale anyone interested
Hello I have a 1964 penny I think is worth something.. where do I go to check? Web URL link please? My email is kedkaedeee@gmail.com
Hi, KaeDee —
We have the values for the 1964 penny on this article you posted. What about your 1964 penny makes you think it’s potentially worth something extra? Do you see doubling or something? Please post a photo or two of your 1964 penny here in the comments section and I’d be happy to take a look.
Thank you!
Josh
I found a 1964 D penny and I need help https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/8a4fc6affa55475d0617b0927e6cc20cc98049e8b5a74f15633a8ea3c945d623.jpg
Hi, Liset —
This is a 1964-D cent? This appears to be a regular-issue piece, and if so it’s worth about 2 cents for its copper value.
Best wishes,
Josh
Thoughts on this?
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/a9210c4e1630a7be76ed04f9685ee96e2d77f24b05f0789febc29cd2dc1d8f58.jpg
Hi, Soulfrost —
This is a circulation-strike 1964 cent that is worth 2 cents for its copper value. The 1964 SMS penny would have finer strike detail visible in the rim that would be seen even if the coin had a bit of wear as this one does.
Thank you for reaching out,
Josh
ty
Greetings, Joshua. Hope this message finds you well! I have an intriguing 64 penny that is unmistakably silver in color, but only on one side and partially around the outer rim. The rim is also of interest as it is not the normal smooth finish but rather appears woven or threaded around. The weight is what is perplexes me the most as it is 3.11 grams on the dot Could you please help me figure this anomaly out? Thanks!
Hi, DJazzyjeffe —
I’d be glad to help further. Do you by chance have a photo of this coin? It sounds like based on the description that your coin was quite possibly dipped or coated in a thin layer of zinc or pewter, perhaps to preserve the coin as a keepsake. A very thin layer of metal would not necessarily affect the weight of your coin very much. The fact that only one side of the coin is silver colored is, to me, the giveaway that this is a post-mint alteration.
Those are my thoughts anyway based on not seeing a photo of the coin. I hope this info is thus far helpful in figuring out the story behind this coin…
Best wishes,
Josh
Hi Joshua,
I have a 1964 D Lincoln Cent that is in impeccable condition. I thought it to be a Proof Coin or a SMS but they didn’t mint any 64′ Proofs/SMS in Denver only Philly(no mint mark) from what I’ve researched. I believe it to be MS67 maybe even MS67+ but thats doubtful. I’ve uploaded pics of it and any feedback would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you much!
Dayle https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/37cf11a376cdcaa7e0708d0720d918305a9b6aaf942009494885f2c9ade6619b.png https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/8970e4ed20588b771677cc73ff8d0378c521486253ec4f9611c60325646889b3.png
Hi, Dr Johnson 83 —
This is a very nice Lincoln cent, but unfortunately I can’t provide specific grading insight for two reasons:
A) I’m not a certified grader and thus my opinion would be anecdotal at best
B) It’s impractical to grade uncirculated coins down to specific MS numbers by photo alone because at that level in-hand inspection with a 5 to 10X magnifier becomes necessary.
If you want to get your coin graded, you might want to check this link out: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/slabbed_coins/
Best wishes,
Josh
Thanks you Josh! I’ll check out that link
You’re welcome! Good luck!
-Josh
Hi joshua i have 1961 D lincon cent https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/90d0abad037f3b612d006c813fa4a17a0b1b728ce001416deba9062907d519cb.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0c578bc8e337c1de7466b05052aa95c8d633b3723e69e9e62f6ee1b75c8a67f7.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/4099b8692970e6d452f14e5de6574c4beb1a33dda70e319bbd8497f1165c9344.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/10bc26fdcafae2fbff145c8b967660c845c71685a72b440d9a8fa0b9d83f660a.jpg
Hi Oliver,
It looks like your 1961- D cent has been cleaned. It’s therefore worth only its copper metal value of approximately 2 cents.
Best,
Josh
Hello Joshua, I have a 1964 D penny, if you dont mind could you please tell me if it’s worth anything? Thanks! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0dc59b216f653ec4ee36dd639e85871e9cd068a74849f8a93852c3700dca8a86.jpg
Hi, Kristal!
Sure thing… A circulated 1964-D Lincoln cent is generally worth about 2 cents for its copper metal value. The SMS coin mentioned in the article would be a particular type of Philadelphia strike with no mintmark (not ANY 1964 cent with no mintmark). And the SMS pennies are generally in mint condition. But keep your eyes peeled!
Thank you for reaching out!
Josh
could somewone tell me if this 1964 D penny is worth anything ? it looks like its been double stamped https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/6977c136d6164c4943a04108ea7f47f202f643b61030cfc668be268f61a92398.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/8e2da1347cb095ef3ec6f5c2037a0e60708b08d63f7b61b811560409ccc66208.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/3cfbaf755d86efe75c691b33ab964e11105a6d5a3d60ddccddf8849e9bdb5663.jpg
Hi, Michele —
I see no evidence in these images that the coin is double stamped, but I think the far more interesting thing about this piece is the claim it was struck on a dime planchet. Have you had this coin authenticated to see if it really is an off-metal error? If it is, it’s worth several hundred dollars. My only concern is that while the size of this piece looks more or less correct, it does not appear this coin was struck on a silver-colored planchet.
Best wishes,
Josh
Best wishes,
Josh
I was only told that by a coin dealer …I would like to sell it if it is in fact worth anytjing
Hi, Michele —
If your coin dealer told you that, I’d consider selling it to him or her directly if they’re interested — they may be willing to offer you a decent amount. Otherwise, you could refer to one of the dealers listed here: https://www.greysheet.com/DealerDirectory
Good luck!
Josh
Hey Josh what do you think about this one my camera sucks it sure seems. Like it may bea part .of proof set toddybchillin11@gmail.com https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/17d17e41aafa2467ed6f9a0148279827784a454cc6b79445e1e1c34791939965.jpg
Hi, Nighthawk —
I’m afraid I can’t make out the date on this Lincoln cent in the photo. What year is it? Does it seem to have any errors?
Thanks,
Josh
It’s 1964 I will better picture
Hi, Nighthawk —
It appears to at least be uncirculated (worth about 10 cents or more), but to determine if it’s an SMS, it would need to be authenticated and attributed by a third-party coin grading service that can examine your 1964 cent in-hand.
Good luck!
Josh
I have a 1964d penny, it looks so different from the others. It’s a deep printing, ( IN GOD WE TRUST) is on the rim, the penny it’s self looks like saucer plate and deep with a red copper tone.
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/fab50ca72378d862355079ba7d2a7eaab606a819e3cba8085f8d05452d81d4ce.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/9d1cf60868ed61140898bed0f7a9cbbef13d09e3d3f7a55cd450b883dcbf4d44.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/8e31a10b0aa6509994a3153fdf76a76a339074462c0aa2702639ab65bd447243.jpg
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/aef41646c2722ecab1431f78a4267c48bd34c1a9b210ae0053a775e5ca9147eb.jpg I have a 1964 penny
Hi, Aung —
This piece is worth 2 cents for its metal content…
Best wishes,
Josh
heloo mr. joshua i have coin 1964d lincon how i can sell this coin can you help me
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/1a3a9ae3dfcf26955d20698479abd241b00997b650075d3e4c4af4ca6dd4326b.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/1b1d8cee3cdfbc5e95d1812a96869e2947a2e408c146ae02b9f4edf3d21cfe9f.jpg
Hello, Zurab —
Thank you for reaching out… This 1964-D cent doesn’t appear to have any errors or varieties and looks circulated. It is therefore worth about 2 cents for its copper metal content.
If this piece is still worth the trouble of selling, your best bet may be to list it on eBay. If you’d rather sell it in-person, you could sell it to a coin dealer. Here’s info on how to find a reputable coin dealer: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/coin_dealer/
Best wishes,
Josh
Hello Mr. Joshua, I have a 1964d Penny that I would like inspected, I found it in my coat pocket. Is it worth anything?
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/30dfff413b7e9d771ecf4cb48d914bd2350653e2945b6023a2eabc803c0f8b58.jpg
Hi, Connie —
Your uncirculated 1964-D Lincoln cent is worth about 15-20 cents.
Cool find!
Josh
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/e88327299e9f9a49f734c83091e370013817722493b0901dfbe1d0c7a5fca52a.jpg
Hi there Joshua, Is this have any Value ?
Hi, Zoren —
Your circulated 1964-D Lincoln penny is worth its copper metal content of approximately two cents.
Best wishes,
Josh
What to look for in a 1964d or 1964 penny to determine it’s rarity?
Hi, Mim—
The rare 1964 SMS pennies will basically only be found in special collector sets that were distributed to a few US Mint employees; these sets have turned up in estates and are being “discovered” by some lucky collectors today.
Good luck,
Josh
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/9437b572fa647361b0c35f71733338b8c154f054da345fba81cb5de701f490ea.jpg Wondering if my 1964 D penny is worth more than usual because of the “WE” in “IN GOD WE TRUST” Do you see how the W and the E are not aligned. What do you think?
Hi, Selina —
Very observant catch with the “WE” in the national motto! However, this minor quirk with the placement of the letters “W” and “E” has to do with the arrangement of the lettering on the dies of Lincoln cents during their earlier decades and is considered normal for the Lincoln cent series, thus not worth a premium. I’m sorry for the bummer news on the value of your coin! But I do hope you keep looking for varieties and other interesting (and valuable!) finds!
Best wishes,
Josh
hey there Joshua i was wondering if my 1964 D penny is worth anything
Hi, Griffin —
From what I see in the photo, your 1964-D appears to be a normal circulated piece with no errors or varieties. Thus it is worth about 2 cents for its copper content.
Thank you for reaching out,
Josh
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/614d6adde659d0029e6c6e43fbd7f21cc4e2ef52f125291bbb081c27091df6cc.jpg
Hello Josh! Would you mind taking a moment to look over my 1964 D Lincoln penny also please?? I took some pictures with flash and some without. I greatly appreciate it Josh! Thanks again my friend!
– Jon R https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/4a11ed3278dfd230f7b4df425815bea40cf1ad8998c424241b2d4223aad612e3.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/25c166c01be2fed4794bbcee74d76b7078126ad6fa3132de6b16dd6667f8614a.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/cad87f1032be429c6bea522a556b61999d26a0b413970dcf65ab7c06d8308b2c.jpg
Hi, Jon!
Thank you for reaching out! Unless I’m missing something that you see on your end that isn’t really coming through in the images, your 1964-D Lincoln cent appears wholly normal and lightly circulated. This being the case, I would appraise it at about two cents for its copper metal content.
Best wishes,
Josh
Hi
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/02e8b50b90c1212cc423c00f0b49785b0128444c43b3f0327f832df429b9ed12.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/725fcec4994e6f0e6f4a93619bfc19208f0d9ac0930a3c905017060d096a4ad7.jpg
Does this look like an average 1964 penny?
Hi, Laura —
Yes, this is a typical 1964-D Lincoln penny and unfortunately it appears to have been cleaned. Between the wear and cleaning, this coin is worth its meta content value of about two cents.
Thank you for reaching out!
Josh
Hi Josh, I just found this penny in my yard today
Hi, Erica!
Unfortunately I don’t see an image attached to this comment but would love to know what you found!
Thank you,
Josh
Hello Josh, I came across this 1964 D penny with raised edges, any info you can provide would be great. Thanks in advance! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/042f516061aeddf789df6750b2287027df8c6eea2d8de8333e2177a714f3f529.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/ec6966317649de4b3d4eec040cf7371bd0e9ccb4a1b0360197215ae5a1e1b56f.jpg
Hi, Andrew —
It appears you have a coin that has been either spooned (more on that in a sec) or caught in a situation where centrifugal forces pushed the edges upward.
In the case of the former, the edges were forced upward by applying intentional force to them by a flat tool. This is could be either for artistic reasons or otherwise.
In the latter, the coin ended up in something like a clothes dryer and rolled around inside at high speeds. While this may sound improbable it’s actually one of the more common forms of post-mint damage. Either way, your piece is worth its copper content value of about 2 cents, but it is a looker to be sure!
Best wishes,
Josh
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/bca858f08045e785c1634cb9ee92bc7bafb708a575b44bc1c2801a6eb69914d7.jpg // Hey Josh! I came across this 1964 penny today? Is it worth anything? Thank you!
Hi, Jovany —
This piece is worth about two cents for its copper metal value…
Best wishes,
Josh
hello . I https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/62fef7a148b738e5c0840313914b1c053e6702eba0fa0ca32ad5bf421f8e7025.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/2e1328b0392d1402bab7879cf90e4aaacd8aa6b52723439e3573ac5884edc38a.jpg am looking around to see if i have any good coins, here i have 2 1964 no mint mark coins i would like you to have a look at and tell me what you think. thanks in advance .
Hi, Noel —
These are two nice, uncirculated 1964 pennies. While they show evidence of surface marks and such that would bring the grade below a point worth getting the coins certified, they’re still worth 10-25 cents apiece.
Nice finds,
Josh
thanks for the info josh
hi josh i been reading your article on the 1964 sms penny, could your take a look at this & tell me what i have , i can’t tell the difference , thanks again https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/eeb57319bab7f7e1979361055716ace883e54a8c146a478e3f1d099a06c7f504.jpg
oh josh on that 1964 penny post it’s a copper proof i had in the original envelope it came in i took it out with rubber gloves so i could get a better photo of it
Hi, James —
In this case, making this type of call really requires an in-hand evaluation by a third-party grading professional who can examine the coin under particular lighting and 5-10x magnification to check for diagnostics against other known examples. However, I will tell you that to date all the 1964 SMS cents — extremely rare coins that were probably prototypes for the 1965 SMS production — have all been found through channels originating from a circa 1991 discovery in the estate of former Mint Director Eva B. Adams. In other words, and unfortunately, these 1964 SMS pennies most likely won’t just be randomly showing up in proof sets.
Based on that, I’m 99.99% certain your coin is an ordinary proof. It is a nice example though!
Best wishes,
Josh
josh , i would like your opinion on this penny, it’s copper proof i had it in it’s original sealed envelope for yrs. i just cut it open so i could get a better photo,wore rubber gloves doing it.is this just a regular proof or a sms i can’t tell by looking, i poured over your article on it but i still can’t tell, thanks again https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/eeb57319bab7f7e1979361055716ace883e54a8c146a478e3f1d099a06c7f504.jpg
Hi Josh! This looks like it could be a 1964 SMS penny. Please let me know what you think.
Hi, Chica —
I’m afraid I don’t see photos of your 1964 penny to take a look and see. Would you please repost them so I can render an opinion/insights?
Thank you!
Josh
Sure! https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/ffe605739cafd26b1b2e8ec7b84d17147fa6af5a34424ed9a658191c30286769.jpg
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/1cb2e9506e4b17a54245553eb4660be9184b78a7aec0f0d5c8b32c9462afd4ac.jpg
Hi, Chica —
Unfortunately this is a normal (and circulated) 1964 Lincoln cent, but there’s a sliver of good news… Its copper value makes it worth closer to two cents than one.
Wishing you the best,
Josh
Ok thank you! It sure looks like more of a satin base than reflective to me.
Hi, Chica —
The satin features of the 1964 SMS cent isn’t just about the appearance of the finish but also about the strike and quality; only about 30 of the 1964 SMS coins were made and they were issued only to government officials.
Best wishes,
Josh
How much should a 1964 D penny weight?
Hi, Melody —
The technical specs for a 1964-D Lincoln penny are 3.11 grams, but variances are allowed — as low as 2.98 grams up to 3.24 grams. Remember that heavily worn or corroded pieces will weigh significantly less. Hope this info helps!
Best,
Josh
How would I know for sure if my 1964 no mint penny is a sms penny
Hi Brenda —
If you found your 1964 penny in circulation (pocket change, etc.) it’s a normal 1964 Lincoln cent — the special 1964 SMS coins were struck in very limited numbers and were given to certain government employees, and these coins are now turning up in private collections by way of auctions or special estate finds.
A little good news is that even normal 1964 pennies are worth about two cents for their copper metal content, so it’s worth a tad more than face value.
Thank you for reaching out,
Josh
I have a penny 1964 no mint mark but on back of penny its different like its two different colors an
it like something was on top of it when it got made hard two describe but if u like to see it I could send a picture
Hi, Tommy —
Could you please post clear photos of your coin so I could further assist?
Thank you,
Josh
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/d19bd32dd8cfc81cab3b793081932c29712dff2a162b64848980560ecdb24383.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/a525db40e8294382c503feb9fed220b53c950a829ee42d4151048c3196822cd2.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/7f0851efd440bccbb76c1dccaad54e59c17482d6dc4bdfcae54345af96fc35a4.jpg
Hi, Tommy —
Your 1964 penny is moderately worn with some environmental damage the cause of the blotchy discoloration. This piece is worth about 2 cents for its metal content.
Best wishes,
Josh
Are you a collector or a grader or you an expert . If yes to any of those questions . Can u please help me to decide if worth grading . I 16 rolls. I actually washed some that looked to dirty and they are like a beautiful gold color. I know i know i should have never washed them.they were hard to read i messed up. But no money can buy the beauti of the eye. Yes cost me a whole lot of money to have touched and appreciate its true beauti. Is something i would have done again if put in the same situation. So money is not everything. Living life and being happy is.
Im just trying to pass my inheritance to people who will appreciate its beauty as i have ..but make hopefully something off my parents collection , now mine. Now time to let go. . Oh they not worn out or faded they are amazing when cleaned those faded looking ones will turn gold if cleaned i know i washed some thinking they were dirty. Its a film over the penny that protects it over so many years of being put up. . wohttps://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/282810f9df67621a2bea0e1ce24b141484060cd155949c33ea3bac9ca286f865.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/4ca70fb3f66864fa5cec983664cbfee534186f9b8c92de183d372d71c3cf2477.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/65d5d08311a451e371bfe3c670220ebdd53974153646a6fa21f6c1eae3c9d83e.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/143087b28f249d0bd57c78c3cfe0f056624577f3f7cd9804914368cee11dc697.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/752d8dcc1aae8022676b552ffe1a15254f4894b4148f3c58ebf6374955aef9b7.jpg
Hi, Cathy —
As much as I want to help, I’m afraid I really can’t provide you with an accurate evaluation this way… I really do appreciate the clear photos, but there are just too many coins for me to look at here and I unfortunately can’t tell what you have value-wise simply by seeing the edges or fronts of the coins at a distance.
I think your best bet for determining what you have is to check out my list of pennies worth keeping: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/valuable-pennies/
If you don’t see any of your coins listed above in the link, they’re most likely worth between 2-3 cents if a Lincoln wheat penny, about 2 cents if a penny from 1959 through 1981, and face value thereafter.
Once you have a better idea about what you have, you can try selling your coins if you’re interested in doing so. Here are some tips on how to find a good coin dealer: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/coin_dealer/
I hope this info helps! I wish you all the best!
Cheers,
Josh
Can you look at mine i just checked. Mine i had like alot of uncericulated rolls . But had to toch them lol. I know i know they lost all there value. Now just hoping that one is worth something worth more the 1 cent lol. https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/b2e5b4a9b685a16babbd05c365b01d6092cbcabf0468c44ced80c91016a16694.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/aabf7775f67b830116a1d50aaeb0b1018bcbbb06616873c04ea85a6b97c0d2f9.jpg
I have a 64 D penny could it be sms?
I’m afraid not, Aaron…
Best wishes,
Josh
It won’t let me post it
Have a penny looks omder than 1964 but its what it says and were the head is on the back it has machinie error one sisde mpre red then other dark
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Hi, Clos —
The discoloration is caused by environmental damage; your 1964 penny is worth around 2 cents for its copper value.
Best,
Josh
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Is this one I placed it next to a 1968 s to try to give an example of it not reflecting light the 64 has a sharp edge effect around Lincoln it looks weird
Hi Josh, I see you get bombarded with questions but I also see that you answer them. Is are there truly valuable Lincoln cent coins from the sixties and seventies in circulation today? And I guess more so what are the odds of me finding one in my pocket change? Are error coins real? I can sometimes recognize them with the naked eye. Is a dime that looks to have a growth on the face valuable?
Hello, Susan!
Yes, answering questions is part of my job here at TheFunTimesGuide, and I enjoy helping everyone when and how I can… You’ll be glad to know there are some valuable pennies and honest-to-goodness real error coins out there, but both types are extremely hard to find.
Some of the most valuable Lincoln pennies from the period you might be interested in keeping an eye out for are the 1969-S doubled die, 1972 doubled die, and 1982-D small date copper pennies.
Here’s some more info on those:
1969-S doubled die — https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/1969-penny-value/
1972 doubled die — https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/1972-penny-value/
1982-D small date copper — https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/1982-copper-penny-value/
You might also find this interesting….
A list of 43 pennies worth saving — https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/valuable-pennies/
Finally, as for error coins, beware that MOST of the unusual things you’ll see on coins are just post-mint damage and not really errors. I explain what some of the most common forms of post-mint damage are here — https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/pmd/
But, yes, there ARE real errors out there, and here’s a look at some of what they are — https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/error_coins-2/
Good luck!
Josh
Josh I found this 1964 D penny is it worth anything that you can tell.
Thanks,
Darrell https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/d9022fc4229c0e74f95b241c013d09990c8bbd664309d574678e0def94656f78.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/3890276122820ba2772b621ccc25b52dd26464aba0023b6fed721ed96de2f5c6.jpg
Hi, Darrell —
It’s a nice-looking 1964-D from the standpoint of outward presentation and color. However, I’m afraid nothing stands out in these photos in terms of errors, varieties, or other high-value abnormalities. It’s hard to peg its grade due to lighting and shadows, but given surface quality, even if it’s uncirculated, I’d say it’s worth around 10 to 20 cents, less if worn.
Hope this info helps,
Josh
Here’s my penny lol, worth anything? https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/7795be7abe5b053e096748cfee6fe172653340548b4f931406907d0d04031511.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/5818593c64b531e804ed28052d8483b75571f43f77f2d9cb9cdcb10e92392175.jpg
Hi, Gabriela —
Yes, it’s worth about 2-3 cents for its copper value… No valuable errors visible here but at least it’s something more than face value! All pre-1982 Lincoln Memorial pennies are worth about as much due to their copper bullion content. Keep your eyes peeled for them!
Best wishes,
Josh
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Hi, Kasey —
These circulated 1960s pennies show no evident errors or varieties in this image and are worth around 2 cents each for their copper value.
Best wishes,
Josh
Hello Josh,
Happy New Year!! First and foremost! And secondly could you or would please let me know what a person could and would think about this fine piece of art. The Obverse and Reverse are both taken with the flash of the camera and therefore are not showing high gloss or mirror like appearances. Also the stairs on the reverse are extremely visible for the date of the cent. And the devices are all in a condition that would lean more towards a SMS piece!? You’re info is greatly appreciated and needed in this world of numismatics! Thanks a million! One more piece if info is it was found in a safety deposit box https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/40d0588483c0d7ec7d14dd0617055f5d2d8c35558b641d9c4696abb49843418a.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/36bd38d31cdea8c18dbfe1b0475f35c16df12e2b8c9224025dfc049f692de033.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c4b0196800aa38908d8fec43c4a00af1446ce77b6529fefb91c0e9bd36cce593.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0bb834b1532caf546fc8f4a941e82e30b5408c03ec529ca0a001daa184e7454b.jpg
Hi, Justin,
While this is a nice About Uncirculated to lower-end Uncirculated piece the strike isn’t calling this out as an SMS; it appears to be a normal business strike.
Best wishes,
Josh
Hello Joshua,
Would like to https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/203e4e4cd5bc6977e493cfaed2017b412048809bd74c70618dca7c0fc20c14ff.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c19717371046858d80675a7ea2183313a11c2170932ee4372d1ac1dc11d3f321.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/18817456ea212edb17c08682e00729122d1460173b28158d8203a5ae6cfcaba8.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/49a4bc6e5a90137742fdac34827a058a6d572319bc2ccb2abc890c83f40bc184.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/01ea4f4d8d25aa36d3bd212a9755c8d9ea33523d22cd83bb4f1a023fdbd410ca.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/e689061e70a2b1f9ffbc531a554ef0b581aea2d262d50f770a9eb6eee7e6fa2d.jpg ask you about a couple coins. I have a 1964 penny and a 1966 quarter. Please tell me what you thing. Thank you.
Hi, Frayne —
Hmm… Very interesting pieces here. It looks like your 1966 quarter has a die cud on the reverse — if this checks out in-person that could possibly be worth anywhere from $50 to $100. I’d get that evaluated by an error expert who can examine in-hand to be sure. Your 1964 penny definitely has a thin planchet. Before dismissing this piece as the damaged/corroded piece it MAY be, it’s worth getting checked out in-hand by an error expert to see if, by chance, it’s struck on a dime planchet or is another type of off-metal error. It doesn’t appear to be in the photos but deserves a shot.
Best wishes,
Josh
Josh, Thank you for the reply. Would like to show you a few more things. Let me know what you think. Plus do you look at paper money too? https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c8cca1f9e7e69d152b7414c1546a1a8c08de26418b540ae7a4b4f71532ffddb3.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/3c03c50f508459bb411358192e28c096057a65daae55d83c40bba3177503cac9.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/0ce12b16edaf9326d7dc291a76801dd73e19872197046bc9bd56b9e413300dc7.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/3f560813e85887f066f37247b28a14630f1a7855c696c5a5df7e57582b9f090f.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/8c33fddc70ce00179d26cc7d8042deef4d580aac4659696729ee5fbf6d736ee5.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/9dff907fd293b853c0c6752be8d00dad7fc1683522662bc961e5b67e7c522b10.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/69e4d26aba8d75a408159c35212c47458695b2449f103fe9de527aa4f1693e86.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/31195523fa2601f49d494943cf02d6be21cc4106b5c8d3c7d9a512b199d34184.jpg
Hi, Frayne —
Due to time constraints in making sure I can help everybody out with their questions here, I’ll usually handle just 1-2 coins from any single person per day, but I’ll make an exception this one time as I never stated that anywhere beforehand! 🙂
What appears to be a 2002 penny appears to have been a soft or poor strike; I don’t believe it’s a die trial strike because parts of the design are unevenly strong and others quite weak. I also don’t think it’s a case of a filled die because BOTH dies are exhibiting this weakness. This one might be better evaluated by a die error specialist, though it does appear to be a mint-made situation — this is almost certainly not post-mint damage, so this is a keeper.
The 1987-P dime appears to have a post-mint cut across the reverse rim and some softness on the reverse. Unless there’s something I’m missing here that is obvious to you on your end, I don’t seem to see anything particularly valuable here.
The image with three SBA dollars is too grainy to see much on zoom, but the one with two clearly shows a 1979-P Near Date on the left — VERY nice find! Even in circulated condition these can take $10 to $15 each, $25 and up in uncirculated.
Great finds!
Josh
Thank you for your time. Will keep any future post to one coin.
PS as to the dime. Next to the U in United and the leaf. There is a glob is that an error?
It’s my pleasure, Frayne! As for the glob of metal, I went back to look at the dime and see that it appears to be a die break. Very cool find!
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Hi, Megan –
This 1964 penny is worth about 3 cents for its copper metal content.
Best,
Josh
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Hey, Megan —
This coin exhibits post-mint damage/alterations. The appearance of lettering/design elements from the back of a Lincoln penny is simply an impression that was hammered into this piece. Looks like somebody placed another penny on top of this one and viced them/impressed them together. This is evidenced by the fact that the lettering is reversed and goes INTO the surface of this coin.
Thank you for reaching out,
Josh
Would like to know if this penny is worth anything? https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/fca246e2c628a4a0a685262bf2f3ac3aa22323b880b180303fa775738a353de6.jpg
Hi, Keith —
Your 1964-D Lincoln penny is worth about 3 cents for its copper metal value.
Best wishes,
Josh
Thanks , I thought it being mis cut mattered anyway ok thanks again .
Hello can you help me I believe I have three 1969 doubled Pennie’s not sure can you tell me their value also have a 1964 https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c9c437d104bcb9140ac9d2347fb0331d926c2c73628b1a3f8380b299c6adffab.jpg
Hi Adela —
I’m afraid there are no doubled dies or apparent errors in this photo, but as these are all copper pennies, they are worth about three cents each for their metal value — not too shabby!
Best wishes,
Josh
Hello I have a 1964 no mint penny, are th ere any errors?
Hi, Tiffany —
I’m afraid none that I can see in the photo of the heads side of the coin you posted. It is worth about three cents for its copper metal value.
Best wishes,
Josh
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I have a 1964 no mint can you please help me to see if it’s SMS or just a regular penny? Thank you
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Hi, JR —
This is a regular 1964 Lincoln penny worth about 2 to 3 cents for its copper value.
Thank you for reaching out,
Josh
Hi this 1969 D penny has the D really close to the date, do you think that’s something rare?
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Hi, JR —
At the time the U.S. Mint hand-punched the mintmarks onto its working dies, and sometimes the mintmark would be just a tad off from its usual placement. Yours is a reflection of this, and every penny struck by that die would have that same exact mintmark placement.
Tens of thousands of 1969-D cents would have been struck from that die unless it was taken out of service prematurely for some reason. I wouldn’t say it’s a rare coin, but the mintmark looks to be a tad north of its usual position. There are some collectors who pay for unusually low or high mintmarks, though there isn’t really a fixed market value for this piece.
My advice is to hold it aside and if you wish to sell it then offer it to dealers who specifically deal in die varieties, especially those of Lincoln cents. There are several such dealers out there.
Best wishes,
Josh
Do I have rare penny
Hi, Kerry —
Please upload clear photos of your penny here so I can help you further.
Thank you!
Josh
I also have a 1964 d penny and also a 1964 with no mint on it how much can I get for it or where can I sell it im in vegas
Hello, Moises —
Virtually all of the 1964 and 1964-D pennies you find in pocket change with wear are worth about two to three cents for their copper value only. Just a relative rare few have errors or varieties, and but a handful known in special collections are of the rare SMS variety listed in this article worth up to $5,000; finding any of these SMS pennies in circulation or in rolls would entail looking for uncirculated specimens with outstanding and unusual detail.
If you want to sell your 1964 pennies, you could search a coin dealer database for one in the Vegas area. You might consider searching a dealer directory such as this one: https://www.greysheet.com/dealerdirectory/categories/all
Here’s an article with more tips on finding a reputable coin dealer: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/coin_dealers/
Good luck!
Josh
I got a 1944 d wheat penny error the size of a dime…anyone¿
Hi, Cory —
Please post clear photos of your coin here in the forum so I can help as best I can.
Thank you!
Josh
The details are kinda sharp…. from what you can see in this pic, does this resemble a 1964 sms penny?
I used other pennys as a comparison https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/990b778b6d95b179fb7f30e7faaad6a945c8c94afb08a9efaeabc300fd0df3ba.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/cca9cd95cc30b9d2f95c08fe5572b4a567406db28a013d0f0cec629d7452876d.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/9b8efe9c6a0c848c6e81bdb5f838e928c8648cc213235217894458503b910abb.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/2b108133adf08bd01d04d29cc6a1774d7ad6c16c086ae7d542bdce3a00c390f6.jpg
Hi, Beverleigh —
The 1964 SMS penny was struck without a mintmark under the date, whereas yours has a D from Denver. Therefore, off the bat I can say yours is unfortunately not the SMS. It does appear your piece has only very light wear, thus why its design details appear rather crisp.
Best wishes,
Josh
I’m new to this and only started looking through change tonight. I found a 1964 penny with no mint mark stamp I added the photo as my avatar is this the rare penny you speak of? If I can post a picture another way please let me know how thank for your time
Hi, Kyle —
I’m afraid the photo is too small for me to make any kind of thorough evaluation. You can attach a larger version in the comments section using the image upload option (click the small rectangular box).
However, the likelihood that this is a 1964 SMS is extremely remote. That coin was made in very tiny numbers and distributed mainly to special U.S. government dignitaries.
The most likely situation is that your 1964 Lincoln cent is an uncirculated or only very lightly worn business strike. Its lack of a mintmark means it was made at the Philadelphia Mint, where hundreds of millions of these coins were made. Such pieces are generally worth 2-3 cents if worn and typically 15-30 cents in uncirculated condition.
Best,
Josh
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Larger picture hopefully quality is much better and ur able to view I appreciate you feedback and Im extremely excite about this new hobby
Hi, Kyle —
Thank you for the much better images! I’m sorry to say that what you have here is a regular 1964 Philadelphia Lincoln cent, though it does appear to have only very light wear at worst. The value for this coin in circulated condition would really be in its copper metal content, and it’s thus worth around 2-3 cents.
I do hope you keep looking for old and valuable coins and enjoy putting together a set or two you like. If you’re looking for valuable pennies, you might find this link helpful: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/valuable-pennies/
Best wishes,
Josh
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I have a1964 penny with the L on the edge and no mint mark ..it say it’s worth $4500.00 is this true ? I’m not at home to post a picture of it…but I’ll be. Home in a few
Hi, Heidi —
The only “64”-dated penny where the appearance of an “L” comes into play is the 1864 Indian cent (not a 1964 Lincoln penny). If you find a 1964 penny with an “L” on it, it’s a post-mint alteration (probably a counter stamp or something etched into it). I’ll be glad to check out a photo of your coin when you get the chance to post one here, but that’s my early information for you.
As for values, I’m not sure where you found the info about a 1964-L penny being worth $4,500, but there is no 1964 L penny, and the 1864 Indian cent with L is worth closer to $100 to $250 in moderately circulated grades; values of $4,500+ would only be for an 1864 Indian cent with L in the very best uncirculated grades.
Hope this info helps,
Josh
So if the L in liberty is on the edge is that considered an mis-strike?
Hi, Kimo —
I’d need to please see clear photos of the coin and the issue with the “L” to provide a good opinion about your specific coin. You can post photos here.
Thank you!
Josh
Hello!
So I just came across a 1964 penny mint stamp is D. Details are very sharp, but what gets me is ots makes o. The rim with multiple 925 stamps..? Silver penny? Can somebody help identify what I have on my hands..please.
Hi, KC —
Could you please upland photos of your coin here so I can take a look at what you have and offer my opinion?
Thank you!
Josh
Hi Josh this is Josh are you there?
Hi, Josh!
I’m here and ready to assist as best I can! What’s up?
Cheers,
Josh
I have a couple 1982 small date pennies and an 89 double die on the date and united states of America any worth anything? Ps i have a bunch more
Hi, Joshua —
The only 1982 penny variety that is really worth much beyond face value due to the size of its date and the coin’s weight is the 1982-D small date bronze — it has to show the D mintmark below the date, along with being a small date and weighing around 3-3.3 grams.
Here’s more info on doubled dies: https://coins.thefuntimesguide.com/doubled-die-coins/
Hope this info is helpful!
Josh
Mine have the D rite under the date and weight 3.3 g
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Hi, Joshua —
I’m seeing two coins in your photos, including a 1996-D. The 3.3-gram weight is normal for the copper penny considering tolerances for the coin and scale readout rounding. But the 1996-D weighs 3.3 grams, too?
As for the 1982-D, it’s a large date — unfortunately not a small date.
Best,
Josh
No the 96 is 2.5g i have this also (notice the date) Thanks a million Josh! I know you are busy so i wont clog up the line https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/477ff09558294b01053212718981845e93669ab131082f81372dc6465d5a837a.jpg
Hi, Joshua —
This piece looks rather scratched or pitted — almost as if it was exposed to some type of caustic chemicals at one point. At least that’s the appearance of the coin in the photo.
As for the date, there appears in the photo to be possibly some type of machine/mechanical doubling. As we explain elsewhere here, machine doubling is not an error but rather a striking disfluency and does not add value to the coin.
Best,
Josh
The quarter with the mint mark dotted out?
Yes, the D has seen some heavy wear or took a hit in circulation, but — relating to the mintmark — there is no error or variety visible in the image.
The 82 pennies weigh 3.3 g
I’ve got what I believe to be an unknown error on a 1979 Lincoln memorial penny it’s hard to explain but I’ll send you a picture if you want to see it and say raising under the word America where it’s almost like extra Penny or something I sure would like to get somebody to look at this I’ve been collecting odd pennies since I was a child but this is one that I’ve never been able to figure out. I’m looking here and I don’t see where I can download a photo of this.
Hi, Jos —
I’d certainly need to please see a clear photo or two to help further. Please post images here in the comments forum, and I’ll do my best to help!
Thank you,
Josh