1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny Value: Price Guide for Collectors

The 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $3 in typical Proof condition to over $1,500 for perfect Deep Cameo specimens. While these coins were not released into general circulation, many Americans find them in old proof sets or inherited collections and wonder if they have caught a “rarity” in the mint mark.

Understanding the 1979-S Type 1 Filled S Mint Mark

In 1979, the United States Mint in San Francisco underwent a significant change in the way they applied mint marks to proof coins. If you have found a 1979-S Lincoln Penny, the first thing you need to determine is whether it is a Type 1 or a Type 2. The Type 1 remains the more common of the two varieties, characterized by a “Filled S” appearance. To identify your coin quickly, you can use a free coin identifier app to zoom in on the mint mark and compare it to known examples.

The Type 1 mint mark was created from an aging punch that had become worn down. This wear caused the “S” to look more like a solid blob rather than a crisp, clear letter. The loops of the S are almost entirely filled in with metal, which is why collectors often refer to it as the “blob” mint mark. While many beginners assume a “blurry” mark is an error, on the 1979-S penny, it is simply a recognized variety. If you aren’t sure which one you have, the CoinKnow app can help you distinguish the subtle differences between these San Francisco strikes.

Because these coins were minted specifically for collectors in Proof Sets, you won’t find them in your pocket change unless someone accidentally spent a collector’s set. This means most 1979-S Type 1 pennies are still in excellent condition, showing off their original copper luster. However, because they are common, the value is heavily dependent on the “Cameo” effect—the contrast between the frosty portrait of Lincoln and the mirror-like background fields.

The Price Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2

When looking at the value of Lincoln cents from this era, the distinction between the Type 1 and Type 2 is everything. Later in 1979, the Mint replaced the worn-out “Filled S” punch with a new, much clearer “Clear S” punch, known as Type 2. The Type 2 is significantly scarcer and therefore commands a higher premium among collectors. For those tracking market trends, the current 1979 Lincoln Penny price data shows that Type 1 coins are the affordable baseline for this year.

Despite being the more common variety, a Type 1 penny can still be worth a surprising amount if it achieves a “Perfect” grade of PR 70. Most coins found in original government-issued proof sets will grade between PR 67 and PR 69. If you think your coin is a candidate for a perfect grade, it is worth having it professionally appraised. For a quick estimate of your collection’s potential, CoinKnow allows you to log your finds and compare them against historical auction records.

Determining the Grade of Your 1979-S Proof Penny

Since 1979-S pennies were not circulated, we don’t use standard “Good” or “Fine” grades. Instead, they are graded on the Proof (PR) scale from 60 to 70. A Type 1 Lincoln Penny is almost always going to look “shiny,” but collectors look for deeper details. A “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) designation is the gold standard. This means the fields of the coin are so reflective they look like black mirrors, while Lincoln’s profile looks like it was brushed with white snow.

To accurately determine the 1979 Lincoln Penny worth and value, you must examine the coin under a magnifying glass. Are there tiny hairline scratches? These often come from “cleaning” the coin with a cloth—never do this! Even the softest cloth can leave micro-scratches that drop the grade from a PR 69 to a PR 63, significantly reducing the value.

If you find a 1979-S Type 1 that is red, vibrant, and looks absolutely flawless, it could be worth hundreds of dollars. High-end collectors are always looking to complete “Registered Sets,” and they will pay a premium for that one perfect coin. Using a digital tool like CoinKnow can help you keep track of these top-tier grades and ensure you don’t sell a potential high-value gem for a few dollars at a local pawn shop.

Errors and Varieties to Look For

While the Type 1 “Filled S” is the most famous variety for the 1979-S, other errors can occur. Because these were proof coins, the quality control was generally very high, making errors quite rare. However, collectors occasionally find “double dies” or “re-punched mint marks.” While rare on 1979 proofs, they are not impossible. A double die would show clear doubling on the letters of “IN GOD WE TRUST” or on the date itself.

Another factor to consider is the color. Lincoln pennies from 1979 are composed of 95% copper and 5% zinc. Over time, these coins can develop a “toning”—a chemical reaction that turns the copper into shades of blue, purple, or rainbow. While most collectors prefer the original bright “Red” (RD) color, a beautifully toned “Rainbow” proof penny can sometimes sell for more than a standard Red specimen at auction.

How to Sell Your 1979-S Type 1 Penny

If you have confirmed you own a high-grade 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny, your next step is deciding how to sell it. For coins worth less than $10, selling them individually on eBay might not be worth the shipping costs and fees. Often, these are best kept as part of a larger collection or sold in bulk. However, if your coin is a PR 70 Deep Cameo, you should look into professional grading services like PCGS or NGC.

Before spending money on grading fees, which can cost $20-$50 per coin, use online resources to verify the potential. Checking recent “Sold” listings on auction sites is the best way to see what people are actually paying, rather than looking at “Asking” prices. Many people list common Type 1 pennies for thousands of dollars hoping for an uneducated buyer, but the real market value is much more stable.

Finally, always store your 1979-S coins in PVC-free plastic holders. The environment is the biggest enemy of copper. Humidity can cause “carbon spots”—tiny black dots that eat into the surface of the penny. A single carbon spot can ruin the value of a PR 70 coin instantly. Keeping your collection in a cool, dry place ensures that if you decide to sell in ten years, the coin remains as pristine as the day it left the San Francisco Mint.

FAQ

Q: How can I tell if my 1979-S is a Type 1 or Type 2?

A: Look closely at the “S” mint mark. The Type 1 (Filled S) looks like a solid blob where the center holes of the S are filled in. The Type 2 (Clear S) has very distinct, clear loops and sharp ends on the S.

Q: Is a 1979-S Type 1 penny rare?

A: No, it is not considered rare. Over 3.6 million proof sets were minted in 1979, and a large majority of them contain the Type 1 variety. Only the Type 2 is considered relatively scarce.

Q: Why is my 1979 penny not shiny if it has an “S” mark?

A: If the coin looks dull or scratched, it may have been “impaired.” This happens when a proof coin is taken out of its protective case and handled or spent as normal money. Impaired proofs are usually only worth their face value or a few cents.

Q: Can I find a 1979-S Type 1 in my pocket change?

A: It is very unlikely but possible. This would only happen if someone broke open a proof set and spent the coins. Because they look different from regular pennies, most people spot them quickly.

Q: What is the highest price ever paid for a 1979-S Type 1 Penny?

A: While prices fluctuate, perfect PR 70 Deep Cameo examples have sold at major auctions for over $1,500. Most Type 1 pennies, however, sell for around $3 to $5.