2013-S Lincoln Penny Value Guide What This Modern Proof Coin Is Actually Worth
The 2013-S Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $2 to $10 for most collectors, though high-grade cameo proof examples can fetch $15 or more. If you found one in a proof set or picked it up at a coin show, you might be sitting on a small but genuine collectible.
What Makes the 2013-S Lincoln Cent Special
The “S” mintmark on this penny tells you everything — it was struck at the San Francisco Mint, and it was never meant for everyday pocket change. The 2013-S Lincoln cent is a proof coin, produced specifically for collectors as part of the annual United States Mint proof sets. These coins are made using specially polished dies and hand-selected planchets, giving them that mirror-like finish you can see right away.
Unlike the billions of Lincoln Shield cents churned out in Philadelphia and Denver, the San Francisco Mint made far fewer of the “S” versions — typically in the range of 1 to 2 million coins per year for proof sets. That lower mintage, combined with the higher production quality, is what makes collectors pay attention to them.
If you’re not sure whether your coin is a proof or just a regular circulation strike, a free coin identifier app can help you figure out what you’ve got before you decide whether to sell or hold. Apps like CoinKnow make it easy to snap a photo of your coin and get an instant read on its type, mint year, and estimated value — no coin expertise required.
2013-S Lincoln Penny Value by Grade
Most 2013-S pennies grade between PR-65 and PR-70, since they were made to be perfect. The difference in price between a PR-65 and a PR-70 Deep Cameo can be surprisingly large, which is why grading matters even for modern proof coins.
Here’s a general look at what the 2013-S Lincoln penny is worth across different grades:
| Grade | Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR-65 | Proof | $2 – $4 |
| PR-67 | Proof Cameo | $4 – $6 |
| PR-69 | Deep Cameo | $6 – $10 |
| PR-70 | Deep Cameo (Perfect) | $10 – $20+ |
For a deeper look at the 2013 Lincoln Shield Penny price data across multiple grades and conditions, certified auction records are your best reference point when evaluating a purchase or sale.
Understanding Cameo and Deep Cameo Designations
If you’ve seen labels like “DCAM” or “Deep Cameo” on slabs for proof coins, here’s what that means in plain English: it refers to the contrast between the frosted design elements (Lincoln’s portrait, the shield on the reverse) and the mirror-like background fields. A Deep Cameo coin has a very sharp, dramatic contrast — and collectors love it.
Not every 2013-S proof penny earns that designation. The earliest strikes from a fresh set of dies tend to show the best cameo effect. As the dies are used more, that frosty finish gradually wears down, producing less contrast. Coins graded PR-70 Deep Cameo are essentially perfect in every way — no marks, no haze, ideal contrast — and those are the ones that push toward the higher end of the value range.
When you’re browsing listings online or checking recent sales, pay attention to whether the coin has been certified by PCGS or NGC. A certified PR-70 DCAM 2013-S penny is worth considerably more than an ungraded one, even if both look identical to the naked eye. You can also explore detailed 2013 penny value breakdowns including proof and business strike versions to compare what buyers are actually paying right now.
How to Check If Your 2013-S Penny Is Worth More
Here are a few quick things to look for:
Check the mintmark first. Flip the coin and look just below the date. If you see a small “S,” you’ve got the San Francisco proof version, not a regular circulation coin.
Look at the surface. Proof coins have a mirror-like field (the flat background area). If yours looks dull or scratched, it may have been mishandled or cleaned — both of which lower value significantly.
Keep it in its original holder. If your 2013-S penny is still sealed in its original U.S. Mint proof set packaging, leave it there. Breaking it out can reduce the value, especially if you’re hoping to resell.
Use a coin app for a quick estimate. CoinKnow is a great tool for everyday collectors who want a fast answer without spending hours researching. Just take a photo, and it pulls up current market data in seconds.
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FAQ
Q: Is the 2013-S Lincoln penny rare?
A: It’s not considered rare in the traditional sense — the San Francisco Mint produced around 1 to 2 million of them for proof sets. However, it’s far less common than regular pennies from Philadelphia or Denver, and top-grade examples with Deep Cameo designations are genuinely hard to find.
Q: Can I find a 2013-S penny in everyday change?
A: Very unlikely. The 2013-S was only sold in official U.S. Mint proof sets, so it was never released into general circulation. If you have one, it almost certainly came from a collector’s set.
Q: Should I get my 2013-S Lincoln penny graded by PCGS or NGC?
A: If your coin looks flawless and you believe it could be a PR-70 Deep Cameo, professional grading can be worth the cost. However, for most examples in the PR-65 to PR-69 range, the grading fee may exceed what you’d gain in resale value. CoinKnow can help you get a rough estimate before you decide whether professional grading makes financial sense.
