If you have a jar of old coins lying around, you might want to take a closer look—especially if you spot a 1974 Lincoln penny. While most of these coins are only worth face value, some rare versions have sold for hundreds—even close to $1,000—depending on their condition and unique characteristics. Collectors are on the lookout, and you might be holding a small treasure without even knowing it.
The reason the 1974 Lincoln penny stands out is because it was minted during a significant historical period. That year, the United States was gearing up to celebrate its Bicentennial, and the U.S. Mint released several commemorative coins and medals—including the Lincoln penny. Some of these coins were struck with special care or came out with rare imperfections, making them highly desirable to coin collectors today.
How much is a 1974 Lincoln penny worth today?
Most 1974 pennies you find in circulation might only fetch around $10 to $30, especially if they show signs of wear. However, those in pristine condition—graded highly by experts—have gone for much more. Let me give you a few real examples so you know what to look for.
- A 1974 Lincoln penny graded PCGS MS67+RD #82925960 sold for $910.63 in 2020.
- Another, PCGS MS67+RD #25392786, fetched $576 at a 2023 Heritage auction.
- Even coins with slightly lower grades, like PCGS MS67+RD #38206840, sold for $192.
So yes, these are real numbers. And if your coin is in excellent shape, you might just cash in big.
What does “MS67+RD” mean on a Lincoln penny?
This might sound like code, but it is actually a grading system used by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). Here’s how it breaks down:
- MS stands for Mint State, meaning the coin has never been circulated.
- The number 67+ represents a very high-quality coin with minimal flaws.
- RD indicates the coin still has its original red color from the copper, a sign that it has not been exposed to air or moisture.
The closer the grade is to 70, the more perfect the coin. If your penny has this kind of grade, it is definitely worth a second look.
How do I know if my 1974 penny is valuable?
The best way to find out is to get your coin graded. Companies like PCGS or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) specialize in authenticating and grading coins. They will look at the coin’s luster, color, and any possible mint errors that could boost its value.
Also, if your coin still has that bright, reddish hue and shows almost no signs of handling, you may already be ahead of the game.
Where can I sell a rare 1974 Lincoln penny?
Once you have had your coin graded, you can list it on trusted auction sites like Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers, or David Lawrence Rare Coins. These platforms are well known in the coin-collecting world, and your penny could reach serious bidders willing to pay top dollar for the right piece.
