1978 Penny Appraisal

1978 Lincoln Memorial Cent (Penny)

This is a United States one-cent coin, commonly known as a Lincoln Penny, dated 1978. The obverse side features the iconic profile of Abraham Lincoln, originally designed by Victor David Brenner. The coin is composed of 95% copper and 5% zinc/tin, which was the standard alloy for this timeframe prior to the switch to copper-plated zinc in 1982. It has a diameter of 19.05 mm and a weight of approximately 3.11 grams. The coin exhibits a deep copper-brown patina, consistent with a coin that has seen significant circulation. Surface wear is evident on the high points of Lincoln's bust and the lettering, specifically 'IN GOD WE TRUST' and 'LIBERTY.' There are minor contact marks and small scratches visible across the field, typical of bag marks and general usage. No mint mark is visible, indicating it was minted at the Philadelphia Mint. The rim appears mostly intact but shows slight softening from age. While it lacks the 'Red' luster of an uncirculated specimen, its condition remains legible and complete without major corrosion or environmental damage. The craftsmanship reflects the industrial mass-production quality of the late 1970s U.S. Mint.