5 Surprising Tips To Discover Your 1959 Pennys Worth

In the fascinating world of numismatics, every penny counts. Literally. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, discovering the worth of a 1959 penny can be an exhilarating experience, not just for the potential value, but also for the historical significance these coins carry. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned collector, this guide will provide you with 5 surprising tips to help you uncover the true value behind those seemingly ordinary pennies minted in 1959.

Understanding the 1959 Penny

The year 1959 marks a significant time in U.S. coinage history due to the introduction of the Lincoln Memorial cent, which replaced the older Wheat Penny design. These new pennies feature the iconic image of the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse side. Here's what makes 1959 pennies particularly interesting:

• Mint Marks: A key detail to look for is the mint mark. Most 1959 pennies come from Philadelphia (no mint mark) or Denver (D). However, San Francisco (S) mint also produced cents for that year, and these are notably rarer.

• Metal Composition: They were made from a blend of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc, but the composition changed in the following years.

Tip 1: Examine Mint Marks and Errors

Mint marks are not just for location identification; they can significantly impact the value of a penny. Here’s what you need to know:

• Scarcity: San Francisco pennies are the rarest because the S mint primarily focused on proof coins for collectors. Any business-strike penny from this mint is quite valuable.

• Errors: Look for die variety errors, off-center strikes, or double dies. These errors can turn an ordinary penny into a collector’s item:

  • Off-Center Strikes: These occur when the blank planchet is not correctly centered during striking.

  • Double Dies: A famous example from 1959 is the Double Die Obverse penny. If you see doubling on Lincoln's features, this could be it.

🔍 Pro Tip: Use a magnifier to closely examine the mint marks and any potential errors. A small mistake can mean a big difference in value!

Tip 2: Inspect Coin Conditions

The condition of a 1959 penny plays a pivotal role in its value:

• Grading: Coins are graded from Poor to Mint State (MS). Here are key points to check:

  • Surface: Look for signs of wear, scratches, or discoloration.

  • Edges: A well-defined rim indicates good preservation.

  • Luster: Original luster increases value, especially in uncirculated coins.

• Tips for Assessment:

  • Use certified grading companies like PCGS or NGC for high-value coins.

  • Compare your coin with photographic standards available in coin catalogs or online resources.

💡 Pro Tip: For important finds, consider sending your coin to a professional grading service for authentication.

Tip 3: Consider Historical Significance

1959 wasn't just about the new cent design:

• Civil Rights Movement: This era was filled with significant social changes in the U.S., which can add historical context to your coin.

• Cold War: The backdrop of international tensions adds to the penny's historical narrative.

<p class="pro-note">🕰️ Pro Tip: Research and present coins in their historical context when selling or displaying in collections for added appeal.</p>

Tip 4: Check for Unique Varieties

Besides errors, there are distinct varieties of 1959 pennies worth knowing:

• Proof Coins: These are specially made for collectors with a mirror-like finish. They are more valuable, especially if they are in excellent condition.

• Die Variations: Subtle changes in dies can lead to different versions of the coin:

  • Small Date vs. Large Date: On the 1959 penny, look at the size of the numerals in the date.

• Circulated vs. Uncirculated: Uncirculated coins with a full red (RD) color are extremely desirable.

<p class="pro-note">📈 Pro Tip: Collect both circulated and uncirculated versions of the same coin year to understand market trends better.</p>

Tip 5: Networking and Community Involvement

Coin collecting isn't a solitary pursuit:

• Forums and Clubs: Join coin clubs, online forums like CoinTalk, or attend coin shows for networking.

• Mentorship: Learn from seasoned collectors who can share their knowledge and guide you through the market.

• Dealers and Appraisals: Establish relationships with reputable dealers for appraisals and potential sales.

<p class="pro-note">👥 Pro Tip: Engage with the community for insights, market updates, and potential trading opportunities.</p>

Wrapping Up

So, there you have it—five surprising tips to help you uncover the true worth of your 1959 pennies. The journey of numismatics is not just about the coins but also about the stories, the history, and the people you meet along the way. As you delve deeper into this hobby, remember that every penny has a tale to tell.

Each tip provided here isn't just about increasing the potential value of your collection; it's about enhancing your understanding and appreciation for this fascinating pastime. Happy hunting, and may your collection grow in both number and significance!

Next Steps:

• Explore further tutorials on how to maintain and display your coin collection.
• Engage with online communities to share your discoveries and learn from others.

<p class="pro-note">🔍 Pro Tip: Never stop learning. The more you know, the better equipped you'll be to recognize and appreciate the hidden value in your collection.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What makes a 1959 penny valuable?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Mint marks, errors like double dies or off-center strikes, excellent condition, and being from the rare San Francisco mint can all increase the value of a 1959 penny.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I tell if my 1959 penny is a Proof coin?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Proof coins from 1959 will have a mirror-like finish and often come in special packaging or holders designated for collectors.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What are some common errors to look for on 1959 pennies?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Look for off-center strikes, where the design is not centered on the planchet, double dies which cause doubling of features, or any significant die breaks.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Where can I find the mint mark on a 1959 penny?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The mint mark for 1959 pennies, if present, is found on the obverse (front) below the date to the right of Lincoln's bust.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can a 1959 penny be worth thousands?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, especially if it's a rare variant like the 1959-D MS67RD Lincoln Memorial Cent, which has sold for thousands due to its pristine condition and rarity.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>