Price Guide for 1933 Cent Variants
This guide presents price ranges for variants from three sources: eBay sales, third-party auctions, and PCGS guides. Values are shown for various conditions, allowing collectors to compare across different market segments. Price estimates may vary between sources, especially for rarer variants.
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $240.00 – $420.00Uncirculated: $25.00 – $16,800.00
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eBayCirculated: $20.50 – $185.17Uncirculated: $29.99 – $4,740.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $20.00 – $16,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $11.00 – $17.00Uncirculated: $0.50 – $336.00
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eBayCirculated: $5.50 – $49.00Uncirculated: $6.05 – $229.99
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $1.00 – $15.00Uncirculated: $16.00 – $75.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $8.00 – $40.00Uncirculated: $18.00 – $38.00
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eBayCirculated: $2.76 – $48.50Uncirculated: $5.65 – $285.00
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PCGS Price GuideCirculated: $3.00 – $14.00Uncirculated: $18.00 – $80.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $3,900.00Uncirculated: $16.00 – $9,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $14.38 – $3,400.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $24.00 – $7,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $9.00Uncirculated: $10.00 – $340.75
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eBayUncirculated: $21.50 – $399.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $20.00 – $375.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $0.40 – $1,292.50
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eBayUncirculated: $22.50 – $209.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $20.00 – $650.00
Design and Specifications of the 1933 Cent
The 1933 Lincoln Cent was produced during the Great Depression, a time of significant economic hardship in the United States. Despite the economic challenges, the cent continued to be minted, albeit in lower numbers compared to previous years. This coin is part of the Lincoln Wheat Cent series, which was first introduced in 1909 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth.
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Mint Marks | No mint mark (Philadelphia) |
| Composition | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor D. Brenner |
| Reverse Design | Wheat ears flanking ONE CENT and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, designed by Victor D. Brenner |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
Condition plays a crucial role in determining the value of a 1933 Lincoln Cent. Due to its relatively low mintage and age, well-preserved examples are highly sought after by collectors. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) can command significant premiums, with specimens in MS65 or higher being particularly valuable.
The quality of the strike, presence of original mint luster, and absence of notable wear or contact marks are key factors in grading. Coins with attractive, original red color are especially desirable and can fetch higher prices compared to brown or red-brown specimens of the same grade.
Mintage: 14,360,000
Rarity Scale: Scarce
Circulation Status: Moderate Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Rare in grades MS65 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: High, especially for well-preserved specimens
Historical significance adds to the appeal of the 1933 Lincoln Cent. As a coin minted during the depths of the Great Depression, it represents a tangible link to an important period in American history. This context can increase collector interest and value.
Toning can also impact value, with naturally toned specimens sometimes commanding a premium if the toning is attractive and even. However, artificial toning is generally viewed negatively and can decrease value.
The scarcity of high-grade examples means that even small differences in condition can result in significant price variations. Collectors should be aware of the importance of professional grading for valuable specimens, as it can provide assurance of authenticity and condition.
