1969-S Lincoln Memorial Cent (Copper)
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Item) · United States Mint, San Francisco Branch
Pattern: Lincoln Memorial Cent, designed by Victor David Brenner (obverse) and Frank Gasparro (reverse)
Type
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic Item)
Maker
United States Mint, San Francisco Branch
Material
95% Copper, 5% Zinc (Not silver; contains zero troy ounces of silver)
Dimensions
Diameter: 19.05 mm; Thickness: 1.52 mm; Mass: 3.11 grams
Description
This is a 1969-S Lincoln Memorial cent. While the user is inquiring as a silver enthusiast, it is important to note this specimen is copper, not silver. It features the classic Brenner bust of Lincoln on the obverse. This specific year and mint are famous in numismatics for the rare Doubled Die Obverse variety, though this specific piece appears to be a standard struck issue.
Key Features
San Francisco 'S' mint mark; 1969 date; Copper composition (pre-1982 standard)
Material & Composition
95% Copper, 5% Zinc (Not silver; contains zero troy ounces of silver)
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with original copper luster; features the profile of Abraham Lincoln
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'S' (San Francisco); Date '1969'; Motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST'; 'LIBERTY' inscription
Construction Details
Die-struck at high pressure on a cold-rolled copper-alloy planchet
Functional Features
Legal tender currency of the United States ($0.01 face value)
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Coin is encased in a protective plastic flip/holder for preservation
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial coinage; struck from steel dies with an estimated die life of 1 million strikes.
Authentication Indicators
Obverse strike depth is consistent with San Francisco dies of the period; genuine patina for a copper alloy from the 1960s.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA - San Francisco Mint, California
Era & Period
Modern Era (1969); Design era: 1959-2008 (Lincoln Memorial Reverse)
Age Estimate
Issued in 1969 (approximately 55 years old)
Cultural Significance
Represents the standard coinage of the United States during the late 1960s, a period of transition in minting processes.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Extremely Fine with significant surface spotting/toning. Not professionally graded (handwritten grade field is blank). Moderate oxidation visible near Liberty.
Value Estimate
$0.01 - $0.05 (Face value to nominal collector value); unless the rare Doubled Die error is present (not visible here).
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with silver polish or chemicals as it is copper and will be permanently damaged; keep in the provided airtight PVC-free holder to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1969-D (Denver) and 1969 (Philadelphia) cents; 1969-S Proof Cent (which has a mirrored finish and higher value).
Interesting Facts
The 1969-S is most famous for the legendary 'Doubled Die' error, which is one of the most valuable modern coins if found in high grade.