1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny Value and What Collectors Are Paying Today
The 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $1 to $5 in typical proof condition, but well-preserved examples graded PR69 or higher can fetch $20 to $75 or more. If you’ve got one of these San Francisco Mint coins sitting around, it’s worth taking a closer look before setting it aside.
What Makes the 1979-S Type 1 Different?
Not all 1979-S pennies are created equal — and that’s exactly what makes coin collecting so interesting. In 1979, the San Francisco Mint produced two varieties of proof Lincoln cents, distinguished by the shape of the “S” mintmark. The Type 1 has a filled or blobby “S” mintmark, where the openings of the letter appear partially closed. This is the more common of the two varieties, which affects its value compared to the rarer Type 2 (clear “S”).
These coins were never made for everyday spending. They were struck as part of proof sets sold directly to collectors, which means most examples you’ll encounter are in excellent condition. If you’re not sure which type you have, a free coin identifier app can help you analyze the mintmark details right from your phone without needing any special equipment. Apps like CoinKnow are especially handy here — the app can scan your coin’s image and help narrow down the variety and grade in seconds.
The distinction between Type 1 and Type 2 may seem minor, but in the numismatic world, it makes a real difference in value.
How Much Is the 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny Worth?
The value of your 1979-S Type 1 penny depends primarily on its grade. Since these were proof coins, even circulated or handled examples tend to hold decent condition. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Grade | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| PR60 (Proof) | $1 – $3 |
| PR65 (Gem Proof) | $3 – $8 |
| PR67 (Superb Gem) | $10 – $25 |
| PR69 (Near Perfect) | $30 – $75 |
| PR70 (Perfect Proof) | $100+ |
For the most current auction prices and sales history, you can check out detailed 1979 Lincoln Penny price data across mint state and proof grades to see how the market is trending right now. Values can shift based on collector demand, so real-time data matters.
Where These Coins Come From and How Many Were Made
The 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny was struck at the San Francisco Mint exclusively for proof sets. The U.S. Mint sold these sets directly to collectors through mail order, making them a popular gift and hobby purchase throughout the late 1970s.
Mintage for the full 1979 proof set was approximately 3.68 million sets, which sounds like a lot — and it is. The high mintage is one reason the Type 1 isn’t particularly rare in proof grades up to PR67. However, finding a perfectly struck, untouched example graded PR69 or PR70 is genuinely difficult, and certified coins at those levels can bring strong premiums.
Most of these coins are still owned in their original proof set packaging, either in the plastic holder or the original U.S. Mint envelope. Coins that have been removed from original holders may show slight contact marks or haze, which can lower the grade. If you want a full breakdown of 1979 penny values across all grades and mint marks, this comprehensive guide to 1979 penny values by grade and variety covers all the key details.
Tips for Identifying and Caring for Your 1979-S Type 1 Penny
If you think you have a 1979-S Type 1, here’s how to confirm it:
– Look for the “S” mintmark just below the date on the obverse (front) of the coin
– Under magnification, the Type 1 “S” will look filled in or blobby, with the curves of the letter appearing to nearly close off
– Compare it to images of the Type 2 “clear S” to see the difference
Once you’ve identified the coin, handle it as little as possible. Hold it by the edges, never touch the faces, and store it in an acid-free coin flip or original proof holder. Even small fingerprints can cause long-term damage that lowers a coin’s grade.
CoinKnow is a great tool to help you document your collection and track values over time. Simply photograph your coins using the app and let it do the heavy lifting on identification and estimated pricing — a real time-saver for casual collectors and newcomers alike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 1979-S Type 1 penny rare?
A: Not particularly. With nearly 3.7 million proof sets produced, the Type 1 is the more common of the two 1979-S varieties. It’s collectible, but easy to find in most proof grades.
Q: How do I tell a Type 1 from a Type 2 1979-S penny?
A: The key is the mintmark. The Type 1 has a filled, blobby “S” where the letter’s openings look almost closed. The Type 2 has a crisp, clear “S” with open loops. You’ll need a magnifying glass or loupe to see the difference clearly.
Q: Should I get my 1979-S Type 1 penny graded by PCGS or NGC?
A: If your coin appears to be PR68 or higher, professional grading could be worthwhile, as certified high-grade examples sell for a meaningful premium. For typical PR65–PR67 coins, the grading fee may outweigh the added value. Use CoinKnow or a similar tool to get a ballpark grade estimate before deciding.
