Most 1972 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.
Specifications
Type: Lincoln Penny
Year: 1972
Face Value: $0.01
Composition: 95% copper, 5% zinc
Total Weight: 3.11 grams
The US minted the 1972 penny with no mint mark and also the 1972 D penny and 1972 S penny. The mint mark, when present, can be found on the obverse side of the coin below the date.
| Series |
Location |
Quantity Minted |
| 1972 |
Philadelphia |
2,933,255,000 |
| 1972 D |
Denver |
2,665,071,440 |
| 1972 S |
San Francisco |
376,939,108 |
Value
Most 1972 pennies in circulated condition are only worth their weight in copper. The current copper melt value for each penny is about $0.029. These coins can only sell for a premium in uncirculated condition.
The 1972 penny with no mint mark and the 1972 D penny are each worth around $0.80 in uncirculated condition with an MS 63 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $4.10.
The 1972 S penny is worth around $0.80 in uncirculated condition with an MS 63 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $8.
Proof coins with the S mint mark are available and they are each valued at around $4.10 in PR 65 condition. There were 3,260,996 proof coins minted.
Doubled Die Error Coins
There is a rare error variety for the 1972 penny with no mint mark. On the obverse side of the coin the date and the design elements are minted twice onto the coin. This is called a doubled die error.
The 1972 penny with no mint mark doubled die error coin is worth around $360 in uncirculated condition with an MS 63 grade. Uncirculated coins with a grade of MS 65 can sell for around $455. These prices are for coins with prominent doubling. Coins with only slight doubling are worth less money.
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Grading System
MS 63 choice uncirculated- In the major focal areas there are some blemishes or contact marks. The coin's luster might not be as prominent.
MS 65 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 65 proof- An attractive coin with only small flaws. A few blemishes or contact marks may be present.
Sources:
The Red Book
See also:
1973 Penny
1971 Penny
1970 Penny