12 facts about 1963 Lincoln Penny
Scarce Mintage: The 1963 Lincoln Penny had a relatively low mintage of just over 606 million, making it a prized find for collectors.
Composition Change: Unlike earlier pennies, the 1963 version marked a transition from 95% copper to a predominantly zinc composition.
Doubled Die Obverse: Some lucky collectors have stumbled upon a rare doubled die obverse variety, instantly boosting their coin's value.
Small Date vs. Large Date: Look closely at the date on your 1963 Lincoln Penny; there are small and large date varieties, with subtle differences in font size.
Mint Mark Varieties: Keep an eye out for 'D' and 'S' mint marks, denoting coins from the Denver and San Francisco mints, respectively.
Proof Coins: The U.S. Mint also produced stunning proof versions of the 1963 penny, characterized by their mirror-like finish.
Collectible Condition: Finding a 1963 Lincoln Penny in pristine, uncirculated condition can significantly increase its value.
Abe Lincoln's Portrait: The iconic image of Abraham Lincoln gracing the obverse hasn't changed since its introduction in 1909.
Designer's Initials: Look for the initials 'VDB' near the bottom of the reverse side, signifying the coin's designer, Victor D. Brenner.
Error Coins: Keep an eye out for error coins, such as off-center strikes or planchet flaws, which can be highly sought after by collectors.
Value on the Rise: Over the years, the 1963 Lincoln Penny has steadily increased in value, making it a smart investment.
Educational Tool: Beyond its collectible value, the 1963 Lincoln Penny is a fantastic educational tool for teaching history, economics, and coin collecting.