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Lincoln Memorial cent

1979 Penny Value

When worn, every 1979 penny made for circulation (2 kinds) is typically worth about 4¢.

1979 penny: front (type example, 2005-D Memorial cent)1979 penny: back (type example, 2005-D Memorial reverse)
Type example: 2005-D Memorial cent and 2005-D Memorial reverse. Your coin's date and mint mark may differ.
Photo creditsUnited States Mint image (PD; front, back)

Check your own 1979 penny

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Check your own penny

Penny Value is an Android app for now, so it isn't on the App Store. The values and checks on this page are free to use.Penny Value is an Android app. Open this page on your Android phone to check your own penny with a photo.

Every 1979 penny

Worn = typical value when worn (Good to Very Fine); MS-60 = uncirculated. Values as of Q4 2026 · Penny Value estimates · not an offer to buy.

The proof penny listed here was sold to collectors in sets, so you won't normally find it in change.

Mint marks

1979 pennies for circulation were struck in Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (mint mark D). Some 1979 pennies without a mint mark were also struck at West Point and San Francisco; they look the same as the Philadelphia coins. The mint mark is below the date, on the front.

Questions

How much is a 1979 penny worth?

When worn, every 1979 penny made for circulation (2 kinds) is typically worth about 4¢. These are Penny Value estimates as of Q4 2026, for information only.

Where is the mint mark on a 1979 penny?

1979 pennies for circulation were struck in Philadelphia (no mint mark) and Denver (mint mark D). Some 1979 pennies without a mint mark were also struck at West Point and San Francisco; they look the same as the Philadelphia coins. The mint mark is below the date, on the front.

Is a 1979 penny silver or copper?

Regular 1979 pennies are brass (95% copper, 5% zinc; about 3.11 g). A silver-colored 1979 penny has usually been plated or altered after it left the Mint.

How much does a 1979 penny weigh?

About 3.11 g. Regular 1979 pennies are brass (95% copper, 5% zinc; about 3.11 g).

Is a 1979 penny rare?

No. About 7.7 billion were made for circulation, so a normal 1979 penny is common. Condition (uncirculated, original red color) and errors decide any premium.

What 1979 penny errors are worth money?

No major 1979 variety is listed on this page. Errors such as off-center strikes, die cracks and clipped planchets can happen on any date; their value depends on the error and condition.

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Every Lincoln Memorial Cent

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