11 Most Valuable Lincoln Shield Cent Coins of the 21st Century
Introduced in 2010, the Lincoln Shield Cent has become one of the most popular modern coins in the US. The Union Shield design on its reverse symbolizes the unity of the US. Generally, modern coins are not valued much by collectors, but due to some rare errors, low minting and special editions, these coins have now become highly valuable. Let’s know about the 11 most valuable Lincoln Shield Cent coins of the 21st century, whose value has reached hundreds to thousands of dollars.
1. 2010 Satin Finish Shield Cent
- This coin was part of the US Mint’s uncirculated coin set and its satin finish makes it different from normal circulation coins.
- Its smooth and slightly matte surface makes it stand out.
- Due to limited production, high-grade specimens can sell for over $1,000.
2. 2010-D Shield Cent Doubled Die Obverse
- This coin has doubling in the “LIBERTY” and date** visible on it.
- This mistake was caused by a glitch in the hubbing process.
- This coin could be worth over $700 in excellent condition.
3. 2011 Shield Cent Off-Center Strike
- An off-center strike occurs when a coin is placed incorrectly in the coining press.
- Some 2011 Lincoln Shield Cents have been found with 40-50% off-center strikes.
- Coins with the full date visible can be worth over $500.
4. 2012 Shield Cent Reverse Die Clash
- Die clash occurs when there is no blank planchet in between when the coin is being printed** and the dies collide with each other.
- Some 2012 Shield Cents have a blurred image of Lincoln on the reverse.
- This error is rare and can sell for $400 or more.
5. 2014-D Shield Cent Improperly Annealed Planchet
- This error occurs when the coin’s planchet becomes too hot, causing a discoloration or abnormal texture.
- This error is more commonly seen in the 2014-D coin.
- In high grade condition, it can be worth over $600.
6. 2015 Shield Cent Broadstrike Error
- This error occurs when the coin is struck without a collar, making it look stretched and distorted.
- Such coins are larger than usual and have no obvious rim around the edges.
- A coin in perfect condition can sell for over $450.
7. 2017-P Lincoln Shield Cent – First ‘P’ Mintmark
- 2017 was the first year a ‘P’ mintmark was applied to a U.S. cent, marking the 225th anniversary of the Philadelphia Mint. – This coin was issued in fairly large numbers, but higher grade versions and some error coins can sell for $300 or more.
8. 2019-W Reverse Proof Shield Cent
- In 2019, the U.S. Mint released a reverse proof shield cent with a West Point (W) mintmark.
- Its unique design, where the background shines like a mirror and the design is in a matte finish, makes it rare and valuable.
- High quality coins can be worth over $2,000.
9. 2020-D Shield Cent Struck Through Grease Error
- In this error, grease or another substance disrupts the design during the minting process, which can cause some letters or designs on the coin to be missing.
- Some 2020-D Shield Cent coins are missing “IN GOD WE TRUST” or the date entirely.
- Coins with this error can be worth more than $250.
10. 2021 Shield Cent Die Crack Variety
- When the die becomes weakened from excessive use, it can form cracks, which appear as raised lines on the surface of the coin.
- Some 2021 Shield Cents have large cracks (Spider Web Pattern) observed near the shield and letters.
- In rare cases, this coin can sell for $350 or more.
11. 2022-D Lincoln Shield Cent Retained Struck-Through Error
- In this error, a foreign object becomes lodged in the coin and sometimes remains lodged in it.
- This error was seen on the 2022-D coin, which could make it sell for over $500.
- These types of errors are extremely rare, so collectors love them.
Conclusion: You May Have a Priceless Shield Cent!
Although Lincoln Shield Cents are modern coins, their value has been steadily increasing due to error coins, low mintage, and historical significance. Many collectors previously ignored them, but now their demand is increasing rapidly. If you are a coin collector, carefully check the change in your pocket, uncirculated rolls, or mint sets—you may have a priceless coin!
FAQs
What are Lincoln Shield Cents?
Lincoln Shield Cents are U.S. pennies introduced in 2010, featuring a shield design on the reverse.
Why are some Lincoln Shield Cents valuable?
Mint errors, low mintage, and high-grade specimens make certain Shield Cents highly valuable to collectors.
Which Lincoln Shield Cent is the most valuable?
Rare error coins, such as doubled dies or off-metal strikes, can be worth thousands.