How to Start a Penny Collection: Pick a Set and Keep It Safe

4 min read · Updated Oct 9, 2026

In short

Pick one set first. Lincoln cents, sorted by date and mint mark, are a clear starting point.
Store coins in PVC-free holders or albums, hold them by the edges, and never clean them.
Start with the change you already have, and check each coin against your set list.

How do I start a penny collection?

Decide what you want before you buy anything. The ANA describes two approaches: collecting by type, which means finding the best examples of a denomination, and collecting by set, which means acquiring every year and mint variation. ANA

A set gives you a clear finish line. Lincoln cents split into two long series: Wheat cents from 1909 to 1958 and Lincoln Memorial cents from 1959 to 2008. The 2009 Bicentennial cents and the Shield cents from 2010 are newer runs. Wikipedia Pick a focus, such as one series, a year set or only key coins. The ANA notes a common hobby saying, to buy the book before the coin, and advises new collectors to read at least one book on the series they pick. ANA

Which folder or album should I use?

Use PVC-free holders. The ANA explains that PVC is added to plastic to keep it soft, and that heat and light can break it down. The breakdown can release acid that leaves a greenish residue on coins. Look for products labeled PVC-free. ANA

Choose an album with a slot for each date and mint mark in your set, so the gaps show at a glance.

How should I handle my pennies?

Hold raw coins only by the edges. Skin oils can damage a coin's surface over time, so some collectors use coin tweezers or white gloves. ANA The ANA says a loupe is typically 5X, 7X or 10X. ANA

Should I clean the pennies I find?

No. The ANA says a cleaned coin usually loses value, and experienced collectors can often spot the cleaning. ANA Read why you should not clean your pennies for the details.

Watch outPolishing or dipping a penny to make it shine usually lowers its value. Keep the original surface.

Where do I find pennies for my set?

Start with the pennies in your pocket. The ANA suggests this, since checking your change is a good habit. ANA You can also ask your bank for rolls and check them before you spend them. The roll guide explains how many coins a roll holds.

Mint marks sit under the date on the front, and no mint marks were used from 1965 to 1967. Wikipedia Read where the mint mark is before you sort.

Which dates should I look for first?

Some dates are worth checking early. The 1909-S VDB is the rarest Lincoln cent by date and mint mark, with about 484,000 released. Wikipedia See the 1909-S VDB page. The 1955 doubled die is a famous error, and the Mint chose to release those coins rather than destroy the lot. Wikipedia For more, see the key dates for Lincoln cents, the Wheat penny key dates and the most valuable pennies.

Can the Penny Value app track my set?

Yes. The Penny Value app has a collection with Sets. They include official Lincoln albums built from our catalogue, such as the Wheat cents from 1909 to 1958, and you can make your own custom sets too.

Check yours

Take a clear photo of a penny from your change, then compare its date and mint mark with your set list.

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.

Related guides

Sources

American Numismatic Association, “Collecting 101” (accessed 2026-10-09)
American Numismatic Association, “Basics Every Coin Collector Should Know” (accessed 2026-10-09)
American Numismatic Association, “Coin Collecting FAQs” (accessed 2026-10-09)
Wikipedia, “Lincoln cent” (accessed 2026-10-09)