Collection: Type 3, Memorial Reverse (Copper) (1959-1982)

The Lincoln Memorial Cent debuted in 1959, marking the 50th anniversary of the Lincoln cent series and introducing a significant design change to America’s most familiar coin. While the obverse retained Victor D. Brenner’s iconic portrait of President Abraham Lincoln, the reverse was updated to showcase the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., as sculpted by Frank Gasparro. ... Read More

The Lincoln Memorial Cent debuted in 1959, marking the 50th anniversary of the Lincoln cent series and introducing a significant design change to America’s most familiar coin. While the obverse retained Victor D. Brenner’s iconic portrait of President Abraham Lincoln, the reverse was updated to showcase the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., as sculpted by Frank Gasparro. Interestingly, this new reverse design includes a tiny rendering of the seated Lincoln statue—making this the first U.S. coin to depict the same person twice. This subtle detail remains a favorite in numismatic trivia.

The Lincoln Memorial Cent series spans from 1959 to 2008 and offers collectors an extensive range of dates and varieties. It stands as a staple for those building either a complete date-and-mintmark set or a specialized collection of error coins and die varieties. Among the most coveted are the 1990-S No S Proof, the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse, the 1983 Doubled Die Reverse, and the 1984 Doubled Ear—all of which are recognized for their rarity and significant value, especially in high grade. Additionally, transitional Close AM and Wide AM reverses from various years (1992, 1998–2000) continue to spark collector interest due to their origin from misused Proof dies or transitional design changes.

In 1982, the composition of the Lincoln Cent was changed from bronze (95% copper, 5% tin and zinc) to copper-plated zinc. This shift was prompted by rising copper prices, and coins from that transitional year exist in both compositions. Discerning between them requires a precision scale—bronze cents weigh 3.11 grams, while the newer copper-plated zinc cents weigh 2.5 grams. Bronze cents, especially those preserved in Mint State, have gained renewed attention among bullion and type collectors due to their intrinsic copper value.

From an accessibility standpoint, Lincoln Memorial Cents remain an ideal entry point for new collectors. Nearly all dates from the series are readily available in Gem Mint State and Proof condition, often at modest prices. While circulated examples are commonly encountered in everyday change, high-grade and certified coins—particularly those with Red color designations and strong strike characteristics—offer a rich field for advanced study and competitive Registry Set building.

For those assembling a high-quality Memorial Cent collection or looking to invest in classic U.S. small cents, ParadimeCoins.com offers a curated selection of PCGS and NGC-certified pieces, including key varieties and error coins. With professional grading, clear attribution, and market-aware pricing, our Memorial Cent inventory is optimized for long-term collectors, modern variety enthusiasts, and investors alike.