The 1968 Lincoln cent, also known as the 1968 penny, is a coin that was minted in the United States in 1968. This coin is part of the Lincoln cent series, which was introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth. The obverse (front side) of the coin features a portrait of Lincoln, while the reverse (back side) features an image of the Lincoln Memorial.
From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Lincoln cent is a relatively common coin. With a mintage of over 2.9 billion coins, it is not a rare coin by any stretch of the imagination. However, like all coins, its value and collectibility can depend on its condition, rarity, and demand.
For collectors, the condition of a coin is paramount. Coins that are in good condition, with minimal wear and tear, are generally more valuable than those that are heavily worn. In the case of the 1968 Lincoln cent, coins that are in mint state condition, meaning they have no signs of wear and have not been circulated, can be worth more than their face value.
One of the key factors that affects the value of a coin is its grade. Coin grading is a process by which a coin’s condition is evaluated and assigned a numerical grade. The most common coin grading scale is the Sheldon scale, which ranges from 1 to 70. Coins that are graded higher on this scale are generally more valuable than those that are graded lower.
In addition to its condition and grade, the value of a 1968 Lincoln cent can also depend on its rarity. While the coin itself is not rare, certain varieties of the coin may be more scarce than others. For example, coins that were minted with errors, such as misprinted dates or misaligned dies, can be highly valuable to collectors.
The 1968 Lincoln cent is also notable for its historical significance. The coin was minted during a time of great social and cultural change in the United States. The late 1960s were marked by protests against the Vietnam War, the civil rights movement, and the rise of counterculture. The coin serves as a reminder of this tumultuous period in American history.
For numismatists, the study of coins and currency, the 1968 Lincoln cent is an important coin. It represents a significant period in American numismatic history and provides insights into the minting processes and technologies of the time. The coin’s design, which features a portrait of Lincoln on the obverse and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse, is also of interest to numismatists.
In terms of its value, the 1968 Lincoln cent is generally worth its face value, which is 0.01. However, coins that are in good condition and are rare or have errors can be worth more. For example, a 1968 Lincoln cent that is graded MS-65 (a high grade) can be worth around 10. Coins that are graded lower, such as MS-60, can be worth around $1.
In conclusion, the 1968 Lincoln cent is a significant coin that provides insights into American numismatic history and serves as a reminder of the social and cultural changes of the late 1960s. While it may not be a rare or highly valuable coin, it is still an important part of American coinage and is worth collecting and studying.
Historical Context
The 1968 Lincoln cent was minted during a time of great change in the United States. The late 1960s were marked by protests against the Vietnam War, the civil rights movement, and the rise of counterculture. The coin serves as a reminder of this tumultuous period in American history.
- Research the major events of 1968, including the Tet Offensive and the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.
- Examine the impact of the civil rights movement on American society and culture.
- Consider the rise of counterculture and its influence on music, art, and literature.
By understanding the historical context of the 1968 Lincoln cent, collectors and numismatists can gain a deeper appreciation for the coin’s significance and importance.
Collectibility
The 1968 Lincoln cent is a relatively common coin, but it can still be a valuable addition to a coin collection. Coins that are in good condition and are rare or have errors can be highly valuable to collectors.
- Pros:
- The coin is relatively common and can be found in circulation.
- Coins that are in good condition and are rare or have errors can be highly valuable.
- Cons:
- The coin may not be as rare or valuable as other coins in the Lincoln cent series.
- Coins that are heavily worn or damaged may not be worth collecting.
Ultimately, whether or not to collect the 1968 Lincoln cent depends on your individual interests and goals as a collector. If you’re interested in collecting coins from this time period or are looking to add a common coin to your collection, the 1968 Lincoln cent may be a good choice.
What is the value of a 1968 Lincoln cent?
+The value of a 1968 Lincoln cent can vary depending on its condition and rarity. Generally, the coin is worth its face value of $0.01, but coins that are in good condition and are rare or have errors can be worth more.
How can I determine the value of my 1968 Lincoln cent?
+To determine the value of your 1968 Lincoln cent, you can consult with a coin dealer or numismatist, or research the coin's value online. You can also have your coin graded by a professional grading service to determine its condition and value.
What are some common errors that can be found on the 1968 Lincoln cent?
+Some common errors that can be found on the 1968 Lincoln cent include misprinted dates, misaligned dies, and double-struck coins. These errors can make the coin more valuable to collectors.
In conclusion, the 1968 Lincoln cent is a significant coin that provides insights into American numismatic history and serves as a reminder of the social and cultural changes of the late 1960s. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, the 1968 Lincoln cent is a great addition to any coin collection.
