1964 Penny Value
As of 2024, the value of a 1964 penny in circulated condition is generally around its face value of one cent. However, in uncirculated condition, its value can range from $0.25 to $2.50, with higher grades fetching up to $3.00 or more among collectors. Proof versions can be worth between $1.00 and $5.00, depending on their condition.
AUCTION RECORD: $15,600 • SP67RD
Image source: PCGS
1964 Penny - Memorial reverse
The 1964 penny, featuring President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse, is a common coin in the United States. Collectors often seek out 1964 pennies due to their historical significance and the fact that they were the last Lincoln pennies produced before the introduction of the clad composition in 1982.
1964 Penny Specifications
Type of coin: Penny
Year: 1964
Wheat Penny Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Metal content: 95% Copper, 5% Zinc and Tin
Face value: 1 cent
Weight: 3.11 grams
Edge: Plain
Designer: Victor David Brenner
Diameter: 19.00 millimeters
1964 Penny Errors and Rarities
The 1964 Lincoln penny may seem like a common coin, but certain errors and rarities can make specific examples quite valuable. Collectors are always on the lookout for these variations, as minting errors can turn an ordinary penny into a valuable collector’s item. Here, we'll explore the most notable errors and rarities, along with their potential values, for both the 1964 pennies from the Denver Mint ("D" mint mark) and the Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark).
1. 1964 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
A Doubled Die Obverse occurs when the die used to strike the coin has been improperly manufactured, resulting in a doubling effect on the design. On 1964 pennies, this doubling is usually most noticeable on the date, “LIBERTY,” or “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
- Value: Depending on the strength of the doubling and the condition of the coin, a 1964 DDO penny can be worth $25 to $200 or more.
2. 1964 Doubled Die Reverse (DDR)
Similarly, a Doubled Die Reverse happens when the die for the reverse side of the coin has been improperly prepared. This error can create doubling in areas like “ONE CENT” or “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.”
- Value: A 1964 penny with a DDR can be valued at $20 to $150, depending on the coin’s condition and the prominence of the doubling.
3. Repunched Mint Mark (RPM)
Repunched Mint Mark errors happen when the mint mark (in this case, the “D” for Denver) is punched more than once, but slightly off-center. This error is common for 1964-D pennies.
- Value: A 1964-D penny with an RPM can be worth between $5 and $50, depending on how visible the error is and the coin's grade.
4. Die Cracks and Cuds
Die cracks are lines that appear on the coin's surface due to a cracked die, while cuds occur when a piece of the die breaks off, leaving a raised area on the coin. Both errors are relatively common and add uniqueness to the coin.
- Value: Die cracks on a 1964 penny can increase its value by $5 to $20, while cuds can make the coin worth $10 to $50, depending on the size and location of the cud.
5. Off-Center Strike
An off-center strike occurs when the coin blank (planchet) is not properly aligned during minting, causing part of the design to be cut off. The more off-center the strike, the more valuable the coin.
- Value: A minor off-center strike (5-10%) may be worth $10 to $30, while a more extreme off-center strike (50% or more) can increase the value to $100 or more.
6. Clipped Planchet
A clipped planchet occurs when the coin blank is improperly cut, resulting in a portion of the coin being missing. This error can vary in size and is popular among collectors.
- Value: A 1964 penny with a clipped planchet can range in value from $10 to $50, depending on the size of the clip and the coin’s overall condition.
7. Broadstruck Errors
A broadstruck penny is one that was struck without the collar die, causing the coin to spread out beyond its normal diameter. This error creates a wider, thinner appearance for the penny.
- Value: Broadstruck 1964 pennies can be worth between $20 and $100, depending on the severity of the error and the coin’s condition.
1964 Penny Coin Values (D & No Mint Mark)
While the typical 1964 penny without any errors is relatively common and valued at face value or a few cents, error varieties can make these coins much more desirable. Here’s an overview of the value ranges for 1964 pennies with no mint mark (Philadelphia) and those with a "D" mint mark (Denver):
1964 Penny (No Mint Mark - Philadelphia)
- Circulated Condition: Generally worth 1 to 10 cents, depending on wear and tear.
- Uncirculated Condition: Can fetch $1 to $5 or more for coins in higher Mint State grades (MS-63 and above).
- Error Coins: Values can range from $10 to $200+ depending on the type of error and the coin’s condition.
1964-D Penny (Denver Mint)
- Circulated Condition: Typically worth 1 to 10 cents.
- Uncirculated Condition: Can be valued at $1 to $5, with higher Mint State grades (MS-63 and above) commanding premium prices.
- Error Coins: Repunched mint marks, off-center strikes, and other errors can push the value of a 1964-D penny into the range of $10 to $200+, depending on the specific error and the grade of the coin.
Summary of Error Coin Values for 1964 Pennies:
- Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): $25 to $200+
- Doubled Die Reverse (DDR): $20 to $150
- Repunched Mint Mark (RPM): $5 to $50
- Die Cracks and Cuds: $5 to $50
- Off-Center Strikes: $10 to $100+
- Clipped Planchets: $10 to $50
- Broadstruck Errors: $20 to $100+
With its large mintage and many varieties, the 1964 penny offers collectors numerous opportunities to find valuable error coins. If you suspect you have a 1964 penny with one of these errors, it’s worth having it appraised by a professional to determine its true value.
FAQ
What is the value of a 1964 penny?
As of 2024, a standard 1964 penny is generally worth its face value. However, uncirculated or proof versions can range from $0.25 to $5.00.
Are 1964 pennies made of copper?
Yes, 1964 pennies are made of 95% copper and 5% zinc.
How many 1964 pennies were minted?
In 1964, over 6 billion pennies were minted, making it one of the most common years for Lincoln cents.
Is a 1964 penny rare?
No, 1964 pennies are not considered rare due to their high mintage. However, certain error coins or those in exceptional condition may be valuable.
What are the distinguishing features of a 1964 penny?
The 1964 penny features President Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse. It has no mint mark if minted in Philadelphia and a "D" mint mark if minted in Denver.
What is the weight of a 1964 penny?
A 1964 penny weighs 3.11 grams.
Are there any errors on 1964 pennies?
Yes, some 1964 pennies may have errors such as double dies, off-center strikes, or other minting anomalies which can make them more valuable to collectors.
How do I determine if my 1964 penny is valuable?
The value of a 1964 penny can be determined by its condition, mint mark, and any unique features or errors. Consulting a coin grading guide or a professional appraiser can help.
What should I look for in a 1964 penny?
Look for coins in uncirculated condition, proof coins, or those with errors such as double dies or off-center strikes. These can increase the penny’s value.
Why collect 1964 pennies?
Collectors value 1964 pennies due to their historical significance as the last year before the composition change in 1982, their affordability, and the potential to find valuable error coins.
Learn more about: 1964 penny value, 1909 S VDB Penny Value, 1944 Wheat Penny value, 1945 Wheat Penny value, 1946 Wheat Penny value, 1942 Wheat Penny value, 1956 Wheat Penny value, 1951 D Wheat Penny value, 1958 D Wheat Penny value, 1957 D Wheat Penny Value, 1968 penny value.