Luray Caverns Souvenir 'Lucky Penny' Encased Lincoln Cent
Decorative Object / Souvenir Coin · Unknown commercial souvenir manufacturer for Luray Caverns, Virginia.
Pattern: Luray Caverns Attraction Souvenir; N/A pattern.
Type
Decorative Object / Souvenir Coin
Maker
Unknown commercial souvenir manufacturer for Luray Caverns, Virginia.
Material
Copper-plated zinc (U.S. Penny) encased in an acrylic/plastic housing with cardboard or foil insert; contains no silver.
Dimensions
Standard penny diameter (19.05 mm); casing approx. 2 inches long; weight negligible (approx. 5-10g).
Description
A classic 'Lucky Penny' souvenir featuring a 2001 Lincoln Cent. The coin is mounted inside a clear plastic protective capsule with a black and gold insert labeling the piece for 'Luray Caverns, Virginia,' a famous U.S. Natural Landmark.
Key Features
Encased 2001 Lincoln Cent, Luray Caverns branding, plastic 'Lucky Penny' housing.
Material & Composition
Copper-plated zinc (U.S. Penny) encased in an acrylic/plastic housing with cardboard or foil insert; contains no silver.
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation coin finish; housing features gold-tone printed text on a black background.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No silver hallmarks. Coin features standard U.S. Mint marks (Lincoln profile, 'In God We Trust', date '2001').
Construction Details
Machine-pressed coin; injection-molded plastic case; printed paper insert.
Functional Features
Pocket charm or souvenir display; acrylic case protects coin from wear.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; rounded smooth plastic edges for pocket carry.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced commercial novelty; standard industrial quality for gift shop merchandise.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic souvenir of Luray Caverns; not a silver or precious metal item.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; coin produced by U.S. Mint; packaging produced for Luray Caverns, VA.
Era & Period
Modern / 21st Century (based on 2001 coin date).
Age Estimate
Produced circa 2001 or shortly thereafter.
Cultural Significance
Represents the American tradition of roadside tourism and the 'lucky penny' superstition.
Condition Notes
Good condition; minor surface scratches on plastic casing; significant tarnish/oxidation on the coin inside.
Value Estimate
$1.00 - $5.00 (nominal novelty value).
Care & Maintenance
Keep away from high heat to prevent plastic melting; do not submerge in water; wipe plastic with micro-fiber cloth.
Similar Pieces
Elongated (pressed) pennies from tourist sites; other encased 'lucky pennies' from various cities.
Interesting Facts
Luray Caverns is the largest cavern system in the eastern United States and is famous for its Great Stalacpipe Organ.