The 1964 D Lincoln penny holds a special place in numismatics due to its unique features and potential errors that can significantly enhance its value.
Understanding these characteristics is essential for collectors and enthusiasts aiming to identify and appraise these coins accurately.
Detailed Features of the 1964 Penny
Obverse Design Details
The obverse showcases President Lincoln’s profile, a familiar image gracing the penny for over a century. Designed by Victor David Brenner, it presents Lincoln at his most engaging.
Inscriptions include “In God We Trust” above, “Liberty” to the left, and the date to the right. Coins minted in Denver bear a small “D” mint mark below the date.
Reverse Design Details
The reverse features the Lincoln Memorial. A close inspection reveals the statue of Lincoln within the memorial, making it one of the few coins depicting the same individual on both sides.
The design includes the denomination “ONE CENT” along the lower edge, the country’s name at the top, and the Latin motto “E pluribus unum,” honoring the unity of the United States.
What Makes the 1964 D Lincoln Penny Special?
The 1964 D Lincoln penny, minted at the Denver Mint, carries unique characteristics distinguishing it from its Philadelphia counterparts. The ‘D’ mint mark signifies its origin, crucial for collectors seeking coins from specific mints.
Additionally, certain mint errors in the 1964 D penny can elevate its value significantly, with variations leading to rare finds worth substantial amounts, depending on their condition and uniqueness.
How the 1960s Coin Shortage Influenced Mint Marks
In the early 1960s, the rising price of silver led to hoarding of silver coins, causing a critical coin shortage that disrupted the economy. This scarcity extended to copper coins like the Lincoln cent.
In response, the US Mint, led by Director Mary Adams, removed mint marks from all coins except those produced at the Denver Mint in 1964, aiming to make them less attractive to collectors.
Mint marks reappeared on US coins in 1968 after the coin shortage crisis was declared over, marking a return to normalcy.
How to Identify a 1964 Penny Error?
Identifying a 1964 penny error is crucial for collectors looking to maximize their investments. Common errors include the double die, where the coin’s design appears doubled, particularly in the inscription “In God We Trust” or the “L” in Liberty.
These mistakes occur during the minting process and can make a penny worth much more than its face value. Other errors include planchet errors, where a coin might be struck on an incorrect planchet, leading to misaligned images or features that are partially missing.
Familiarity with the standard features of a 1964 Lincoln penny is essential to spot these errors accurately.
Detailed Valuation of the 1964 D Penny
In 1964, the Denver mint produced nearly 3.8 billion pennies, slightly more than the Philadelphia mint. Despite this high mintage, the value of these coins can vary significantly at higher grades.
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| MS63 | Mint State 63, red | ~$6 |
| MS65 | Mint State 65 | ~$16 |
| MS67 | Mint State 67 | ~$650 |
| MS67+ | Mint State 67+, finest known examples | ~$4,750 |
The finest known examples are graded MS67+, with only seven coins reaching this level, each valued at around $4,750.
This demonstrates the substantial leap in value as the quality of the coin improves, making these coins highly desirable for collectors aiming for top-notch specimens.
Conclusion
The 1964 D Lincoln penny is a fascinating piece for collectors, offering insights into a unique period in U.S. coinage history. Its distinctive features, potential errors, and the historical context of its minting contribute to its significance and value in the numismatic community.
FAQs
How can I identify a double die error on a 1964 D Lincoln penny?
Look for noticeable doubling in inscriptions like “In God We Trust” or “Liberty.” Using a magnifying glass can help detect these errors more clearly.
What factors influence the value of a 1964 D Lincoln penny?
The coin’s condition, presence of mint errors, and its grade significantly impact its value.
Is it worth getting a 1964 D penny professionally graded?
Yes, especially if you believe the coin is in exceptional condition or has unique errors, as professional grading can provide an accurate assessment of its value.
Where can I sell my 1964 D Lincoln penny?
You can sell it through coin dealers, auctions, or online platforms specializing in numismatics. Ensure to research and choose reputable avenues to get a fair price.
