Is the 2017-P Lincoln Penny Worth Money? Grade & Values
The 2017-P Lincoln Penny value typically ranges from its face value of $0.01 in circulated condition to over $100 for high-grade specimens. While most are worth only one cent, the unique “P” mint mark makes this specific year a fascinating piece of American history that collectors often seek out for high-quality sets.
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Circulated (F-AU) | $0.01 |
| Uncirculated (MS63) | $0.15 – $0.50 |
| Choice Uncirculated (MS65) | $1.00 – $5.00 |
| Superb Gem (MS67+) | $25.00 – $150.00+ |
The Historic Significance of the 2017-P Lincoln Penny
If you just found a 2017 penny with a small “P” under the date, you are looking at a historic anomaly. For the first time in the 225-year history of the United States Mint, the Philadelphia branch placed its “P” mint mark on a one-cent coin. To identify yours quickly, you can use a free coin identifier app to confirm the strike and variety.
This change was made specifically to celebrate the 225th anniversary of the U.S. Mint. Traditionally, Philadelphia coins lacked a mint mark, while Denver used a “D” and San Francisco an “S.” The 2017-P is the only year this ever happened for the Lincoln cent, making it a “one-year-only” type coin. Because billions were minted, most pocket change examples aren’t rare, but their historical context keeps them popular.
While you might see these often in your spare change, many casual hunters use the CoinKnow app to keep track of which ones are worth setting aside. Because it was a commemorative gesture, many collectors saved rolls of these coins immediately, meaning high-quality examples are more common than for other years.
Grading and Determining 2017-P Lincoln Penny Value
When determining the worth of your coin, the number one factor is the grade. Most 2017-P pennies you find in circulation will be Grade Brown (BN) or Red-Brown (RB) due to oxidation. However, those that retain their original mint luster are classified as “Red” (RD).
Collectors prioritize these “Red” versions because they look exactly as they did the day they were struck. A coin that is graded as MS67 or higher can fetch a significant premium. Experts often consult the 2017-P Lincoln Penny Red price guide to see how market demand shifts for these pristine specimens.
For the average person, a quick way to check if your coin is “Mint State” is to look for sharp details in Lincoln’s hair and the lines of the Union Shield on the back. If the coin looks dull or scratched, it is likely only worth face value. If it looks fresh and mirror-like, it might be worth a few dollars or more.
| Grade (RD) | PCGS Pricing | NGC Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| MS64 RD | $1 | $1 |
| MS66 RD | $12 | $15 |
| MS67 RD | $35 | $40 |
| MS68 RD | $250+ | $200+ |
Are There Valuable 2017-P Penny Errors?
Error hunting is where the real money is made in modern coin collecting. While the 2017-P was produced with high-tech machinery, mistakes still happened. The most common errors to look for include “Die Chips” and “Doubled Dies.” A die chip is a small blob of extra metal that appears where the production tool broke slightly.
Look closely at the “P” mint mark or the “2017” date. If the numbers look blurry or “doubled,” you might have a rare variety. These errors are best identified using the CoinKnow app’s high-resolution identification features. Some collectors have reported finding minor Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) errors where the inscriptions appear slightly thicker than normal.
Even a small mistake can turn a common cent into a $20 to $50 item. To get a better idea of current market trends, you should check the latest current 2017-P Penny market value to see what recently sold on auction sites like eBay or Heritage Auctions.
Comparing the 2017-P with the 2017-D and 2017-S
The 2017 penny was also minted in Denver (D) and San Francisco (S). The Denver version is extremely common and does not have the “commemorative” status of the Philadelphia “P” mark. Typically, the 2017-D is only worth face value unless it is in an exceptionally high grade like MS68 or MS69.
The San Francisco (S) mint mark is found on “Proof” coins. These were not meant for circulation and were sold in special sets to collectors. Proof coins have a mirror-like finish and frosted details. If you find an “S” mint mark penny in your change, it was likely broken out of a set and spent by someone who didn’t know its value.
| Mint Mark | Mintage Type | Common Value |
|---|---|---|
| P (Philadelphia) | Circulation (Special) | $0.01 – $100.00 |
| D (Denver) | Circulation | $0.01 – $50.00 |
| S (San Francisco) | Proof Set | $2.00 – $15.00 |
How to Store and Protect Your 1-Cent Coins
If you find a 2017-P penny that looks incredibly shiny and scratch-free, don’t just throw it in a jar. Human skin oils can damage the “Red” surface of a copper-plated zinc coin over time. To preserve its value, use a cardboard “2×2” coin flip or a plastic capsule. This prevents the coin from oxidizing into a brown state, which significantly lowers its market price.
Many beginner collectors use the CoinKnow tool to inventory their finds and track the condition of their coins over time. By keeping your coins organized and protected, you ensure that if the value of the 2017-P penny rises in the future due to its anniversary status, your specimen will still be in top-tier condition.
Remember, a coin’s value is only as high as what a buyer is willing to pay. In the world of modern pennies, that buyer usually wants perfection. Minor scratches from other coins clinking against your find can drop the grade from an MS67 to an MS63 instantly, losing you $30 or more in potential value.
Final Thoughts for Everyday Coin Hunters
While the 2017-P Lincoln Penny is unlikely to fund your retirement, it is a great entry point into the hobby of numismatics. It is the only Philadelphia cent with a mint mark, making it a unique curiosity. Whether you are checking your change or searching through bank rolls, keep an eye out for the “P.”
If you find one that looks perfect, keep it! Even if it’s only worth a few cents now, its status as a historical first for the U.S. Mint makes it a great piece for any collection. Small bits of history like this are what make coin collecting exciting for millions of Americans every day.
FAQ
Q: Why does my 2017 penny have a “P” on it?
A: The “P” mint mark was added to the 2017 penny specifically to celebrate the 225th anniversary of the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia. It is the only year the Philadelphia mint used a mint mark on a one-cent coin.
Q: Is a 2017-P penny rare?
A: No, it is not rare in a general sense. Over 4.4 billion 2017-P pennies were minted. However, finding one in “Perfect” Mint State (MS68 or higher) is quite rare and can be valuable to collectors.
Q: How can I tell if my 2017-P penny is an error coin?
A: You should look for doubling in the letters and date, or extra blobs of metal (die chips). Using a magnifying glass or a coin identification app like CoinKnow can help you spot these tiny details that the naked eye might miss.
Q: Where is the “P” mint mark located?
A: The “P” is located on the front (obverse) of the coin, directly underneath the date “2017,” right below Lincoln’s chest.
Q: Should I get my 2017-P penny professionally graded?
A: Only if the coin is in flawless condition. Professional grading (through PCGS or NGC) costs money. Unless the coin is likely to grade MS67 or higher, the cost of grading will probably be higher than the actual value of the coin.
