Most 1961 Lincoln pennies aren't valuable. However these pennies can sell for a premium in uncirculated condition. Keep reading to learn more about these one cent coins.

1961 Penny

Specifications

Type: Lincoln Penny
Year: 1961
Face Value: $0.01
Composition: 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc
Total Weight: 3.11 grams

The US minted the 1961 penny with no mint mark and also the 1961 D penny. The mint mark, when present, can be found on the obverse side of the coin below the date.

Series Location Quantity Minted
1961 Philadelphia 753,345,000
1961 D Denver 1,753,266,700

Value

Most 1961 pennies in circulated condition are only worth their weight in copper. The current copper melt value for each penny is about $0.02. These coins can only sell for a premium in uncirculated condition.

The 1961 penny with no mint mark and the 1961 D penny are each worth around $0.15 in uncirculated condition with an MS-63RB grade. The value is around $1 in uncirculated condition with a grade of MS-65RD.

Proof coins with no mint mark are available and they are each valued at around $23 in PR-67RD condition. There were 3,028,244 proof coins minted.

Click here to search for Lincoln pennies on Amazon.

Grading System

MS-63RB choice uncirculated- In the major focal areas there are some blemishes or contact marks. The coin's luster might not be as prominent. The color is red-brown.

MS-65RD gem uncirculated- There is strong luster and eye appeal. A few light contact marks may be present but they are barely noticeable. The color is red.

PR-67RD proof- There are no flaws to this coin. A few blemishes may be present. The color is red.

 

Sources:

The Red Book


See also:

1962 Penny
1960 Penny
1959 Penny