KEY DATE: 1960 Lincoln Memorial Penny
The 1960 Lincoln Cent, also known as the 1960 Lincoln Memorial penny, is notable for having two varieties based on the size of the date on the obverse (front) of the coin: the Small Date and the Large Date. These varieties can be distinguished by examining the numerals in the date "1960."
1960 Small Date Variety
- The "1960" numerals appear smaller and more compact.
- The "6" and "0" digits are shorter and more evenly aligned with the other numbers.
- The "0" is more oval-shaped and appears taller relative to the "6".
1960 Large Date Variety
- The "1960" numerals appear larger and more spread out.
- The "6" and "0" digits are taller, with the "0" appearing more circular.
- The "1" and "9" are also slightly larger and more prominent compared to the Small Date variety.
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Production DetailsPhiladelphia Mint Both Small Date and Large Date varieties were produced in substantial quantities. The Small Date variety is more widely collected and valuable. Mintage was 588,096,602.
Denver Mint Also produced both Small Date and Large Date varieties, but the Small Date variety from the Denver Mint (denoted by a "D" mint mark) is notably scarcer and therefore more valuable to collectors.
Collecting and Value
Small Date: Generally more sought after, especially the 1960-P Small Date. Large Date: More common, with generally lower numismatic value compared to the Small Date.
| Year | MS60 | MS65 | MS67 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1960-P Small Date | $3.50 | $9.00 | $600.00 |
| 1960-P Large Date | $0.25 | $1.25 | $150.00 |
| 1960-D Small Date | $0.25 | $1.25 | $200.00 |
| 1960-D Large Date | $0.25 | $1.25 | $160.00 |
1960 D/D Small/Large Date
This variety was caused when the US Mint stamped a smaller 1960 date over a larger 1960 date mark. You can know you have this variety when you see a small "0" within a larger "0" - along with slightly less obvious doubling of the 6 and 9.
