1979-S Type 2 Lincoln Penny Value: History and Price Guide
The 1979-S Type 2 Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $5 in standard proof condition to over $1,000 for high-grade specimens. While most pennies in your pocket are worth just one cent, this specific variety from the San Francisco Mint is a prize for collectors due to its distinct mint mark.
| Condition / Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| PR 65 Deep Cameo | $10.00 – $15.00 |
| PR 68 Deep Cameo | $25.00 – $45.00 |
| PR 69 Deep Cameo | $60.00 – $150.00 |
| PR 70 Deep Cameo (Perfect) | $1,000.00+ |
What Makes the 1979-S Type 2 Lincoln Penny Special?
In 1979, the United States Mint in San Francisco produced proof sets for collectors. During this year, the “S” mint mark punch was replaced mid-production. This resulted in two distinct varieties: the Type 1 (Filled S) and the Type 2 (Clear S). Finding a Type 2 in a random collection is an exciting moment for any hobbyist.
If you are unsure which version you have, utilizing a free coin identifier app can help you zoom in on the mint mark and compare it to known examples. The Type 2 is generally more desirable because it represents the updated design that would carry over into the following years.
The CoinKnow app is another excellent resource for beginners who want to verify the authenticity of their San Francisco proof pennies. Most Type 2 coins appear sharper and more defined. Collectors often look for the “Deep Cameo” effect, where the frosted portrait of Lincoln stands out beautifully against a mirror-like background.
Identifying the Type 1 vs. Type 2 Mint Mark
The primary difference lies in the “S” located under the date. On the Type 1 variety, the “S” looks like a blob. The inner loops of the letter are filled with metal, making it look “mushy” or flat. This was the result of a worn-out punch used at the beginning of the 1979 production run.
On the 1979-S Type 2 Lincoln Penny, the mint mark is “Clear.” You can see the distinct bulbous ends of the “S” and a clear field of space in the center of the loops. This clear mark is much more aesthetically pleasing to numismatists.
| Feature | Type 1 (Filled S) | Type 2 (Clear S) |
|---|---|---|
| Clarity | Blurred/Filled center | Sharp/Open center |
| Rarity | Common | Scarce |
| Collector Demand | Lower | High |
Current Market Value and Pricing Trends
The value of these coins is heavily dependent on the grade assigned by professional services like PCGS or NGC. Because these were issued in proof sets, they shouldn’t show the wear and tear of a circulating penny. However, even small scratches or “haze” on the surface can significantly decrease the value.
Checking the current auction prices for 1979 Lincoln pennies shows that high-grade Type 2 specimens consistently outperform Type 1s. A PR69 Deep Cameo Type 2 might sell for four or five times the price of its Type 1 counterpart.
For those curious about everyday finds, looking up the detailed 1979 penny valuation charts reveals that while business-strike pennies (those without the S mark) are worth face value, the S-mint proofs are always worth a premium. Always check your proof sets!
Collecting Tips for the 1979-S Penny
If you are hunting for these in the wild or at estate sales, look for original 1979 United States Proof Sets. The Type 2 “Clear S” was used late in the year, so it is less common than the Type 1. Identifying one inside an original purple-lidded proof box is a great way to start a collection.
Many hobbyists use CoinKnow to organize their digital inventory. This helps you track which mint mark variations you have and what they might be worth in today’s fluctuating market. High-quality photos are essential for distinguishing the 1979-S Type 2 Lincoln Penny from the more common version.
Keep an eye out for “toning.” Sometimes these copper pennies develop beautiful rainbow hues over decades. While some collectors prefer the bright red “Mint State” look, others will pay a massive premium for a 1979-S Type 2 with unique, natural coloration.
Modern Grading and the Quest for PR70
A “PR70” grade represents a perfect coin under 5x magnification. For the 1979-S Type 2, finding a perfect 70 is exceptionally difficult. Even though they were handled carefully at the mint, tiny imperfections often keep them in the PR68 or PR69 range.
The price gap between a PR69 and a PR70 is enormous. While a PR69 might be worth $100, a certified PR70 can easily fetch over $1,500 at a high-end auction. This makes the 1979-S Type 2 Lincoln Penny one of the most exciting modern pennies to grade.
| Grading Tier | Price (Type 1) | Price (Type 2) |
|---|---|---|
| PR 67 DCAM | $4.00 | $20.00 |
| PR 69 DCAM | $15.00 | $95.00 |
| PR 70 DCAM | $350.00 | $1,650.00 |
Why Condition Matters Most
Even with the rare Clear S mint mark, a coin that has been touched by bare fingers or stored in damp conditions will lose value. The natural oils in your skin can cause “fingerprint” stains on proof coins, which are nearly impossible to remove without damaging the coin’s delicate finish.
If you find one, handle it only by the edges or wear lint-free cotton gloves. Storing the coin in a PVC-free plastic flip or a specialized coin capsule is the best way to preserve its value for the long term. Many people use CoinKnow to document the condition of their coins as soon as they acquire them to prevent future confusion.
The 1979-S Type 2 Lincoln Penny is a bridge between the old production methods and the modern era of sharp, clear minting. It remains a favorite for Lincoln cent enthusiasts because it is affordable enough for beginners but rare enough in top grades to satisfy seasoned professionals.
FAQ
Q: How can I tell if my 1979-S penny is Type 1 or Type 2?
A: Look closely at the “S” mint mark under the date. If the “S” looks like a solid blob with no clear holes in the loops, it is a Type 1. If the “S” is clear, sharp, and has visible space in the loops, it is a Type 2.
Q: Are 1979 pennies from Philadelphia (no mint mark) worth anything?
A: Generally, no. 1979 pennies minted in Philadelphia were produced in the billions and are still found in pocket change. They are worth exactly one cent unless they have a major mint error.
Q: Is the 1979-S Type 2 Lincoln Penny made of copper?
A: Yes. All 1979 pennies are composed of 95% copper and 5% zinc. The U.S. Mint did not switch to the copper-plated zinc composition until mid-1982.
Q: Where is the best place to sell my 1979-S Type 2 penny?
A: For high-grade certified coins, auction houses like Heritage Auctions or GreatCollections are best. For lower-value specimens, eBay or a local reputable coin shop are good options. Always check current prices on CoinKnow before selling.
