1967 Lincoln Memorial Cent

This is a 1967 United States one-cent coin, commonly known as a Lincoln Penny. The coin is composed of 95% copper and 5% tin/zinc, following the composition standards prior to the 1982 transition to zinc cores. The obverse features the profile of Abraham Lincoln facing right, designed by Victor David Brenner. Above the bust is the motto 'IN GOD WE TRUST,' to the left is 'LIBERTY,' and the date '1967' is located to the right. Notably, there is no mint mark, indicating it was struck at the Philadelphia Mint (which did not use mint marks during the 1965-1967 period to discourage coin collecting during a silver shortage). The coin exhibits a deep brown patina consistent with long-term circulation and oxidation. Condition-wise, it shows moderate wear on the high points of Lincoln's hair and cheek. There are visible surface scratches, specifically a prominent vertical scratch behind Lincoln's head near 'LIBERTY,' and several smaller rim nicks. The strike appears somewhat soft, and the overall luster is dull, categorizing it as a circulated specimen in approximately 'Fine' to 'Very Fine' condition.

Upon physical examination of the provided imagery, I have evaluated this 1967 Lincoln Memorial Cent. The specimen displays a characteristic chocolate-brown patina consistent with the 95% copper alloy used during this era. I observe moderate circulation wear, particularly flattening on the wheat ears (reverse) and Lincoln’s hair (obverse), placing this in the Fine to Very Fine (F-VF) grade range. Significant surface impairments, including a vertical scratch in the obverse field and various rim nicks, detract from its aesthetic appeal and numismatic premium. From a market perspective, the 1967 cent is an extremely common issue with a mintage exceeding 3 billion. Because it lacks a 'D' or 'S' mint mark (standard for all 1965-1967 issues) and shows significant wear, it does not possess the 'Red' (RD) luster required to attract high-end registry set collectors. Current market demand for circulated 1960s cents is minimal; they are typically traded in bulk or valued primarily for their copper bullion content, which currently exceeds face value. While the coin appears authentic in its design and strike characteristics, a definitive authentication cannot be performed via images alone. To confirm the absence of alterations or to detect sophisticated counterfeits, an in-person examination would be required to verify precise weight (standard 3.11g), diameter, and metallic composition via XRF (X-ray fluorescence) testing. For a coin of this commonality, professional third-party grading (e.g., PCGS or NGC) is not economically viable, as the grading fees would far exceed the market value of the specimen.