1964 Lincoln Memorial Cent (Copper Alloy)
Coin (Bullion/Circulating US Coin) · Not Applicable (Copper coinage, no gold content)
Purity: Not Applicable (Composition is 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc)
Type
Coin (Bullion/Circulating US Coin)
Purity
Not Applicable (Composition is 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc)
Gold Type
Not Applicable (Copper coinage, no gold content)
Weight
3.11 grams
Description
A circulating 1964 US Lincoln Cent featuring the iconic profile of Abraham Lincoln on the obverse. Despite often being mistaken for gold due to toning or lighting, this coin is composed of a copper-tin-zinc alloy. It represents a classic piece of American numismatic history minted just before the transition to copper-plated zinc coins in 1982.
Key Features
Features the historic Lincoln bust, the motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST', the word 'LIBERTY', and the year 1964 on the obverse face
Color & Finish
Brown to reddish-brown copper toning with a circulated satin and business strike finish
Hallmarks & Stamps
In God We Trust, Liberty, 1964 date, mint mark (if applicable on reverse)
Dimensions Estimate
19.05 mm diameter and 1.52 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
None (Circulating coin with a smooth or reeded edge)
Chain & Links
None
Craftsmanship Details
Standard mass-produced business strike coin minted using mechanical presses with high-pressure dies for sharp relief details
Authentication Indicators
Standard US Mint coin specifications, magnetic properties (non-magnetic copper), and standard diameter and thickness verification
Origin & Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia or Denver Mint)
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1959-1981 Lincoln Memorial design)
Age Estimate
Dated 1964, mid-20th century production
Cultural Significance
The Lincoln cent is one of the longest-running and most widely recognized coin designs in United States history, honoring the 16th president and serving as a staple of daily American commerce for generations.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with minor surface scratches, environmental toning, and moderate wear consistent with general circulation. Estimated numismatic grade: About Uncirculated to Very Fine (AU/VF).
Value Estimate
Face value ($0.01) to a few cents for circulated common date specimens; higher value only for pristine uncirculated or rare error varieties
Care & Maintenance
Store in a dry environment in a coin flip or protective holder to prevent further environmental toning and oxidation
Similar Items
Other Lincoln Memorial cents from the 1960s, steel cents from 1943, and modern zinc-based Lincoln cents
Interesting Facts
The 1964 cent was minted in massive quantities by the US Mint to combat a national coin shortage, making it extremely common today despite its high mintage numbers exceeding billions across facilities.