Price Guide for 1975 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 PriceUncirculated: $7.00 – $9,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $555.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3.00 – $10,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3.00 – $4,112.50
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $282.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $7.00 – $10,000.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3.00 – $1,150.00
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eBayUncirculated: $2.04 – $187.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4.00 – $15,000.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $6.00Uncirculated: $6.00 – $17.00
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eBayCirculated: $8.50 – $249.99Uncirculated: $3.25 – $72.99
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $184.00 – $900.00
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eBayCirculated: $0.25Uncirculated: $8.00 – $122.50
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eBayUncirculated: $1.11 – $34.95
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $168.00
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eBayUncirculated: $6.73 – $495.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $54.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1.25 – $250.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $25.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1.50 – $95.00
Design and Specifications of the 1975 Cent
The 1975 Lincoln Cent continued the long-standing tradition of featuring Abraham Lincoln on the obverse and the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse. This design combination had been in use since 1959, marking the 150th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth. 1975 was a significant year for the United States, as it marked the beginning of the country’s bicentennial celebrations, though this was not reflected in the cent’s design.
| Weight | 3.11 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Mint Marks | P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), S (San Francisco – Proof only) |
| Composition | 95% copper, 5% zinc |
| Obverse Design | Abraham Lincoln portrait, designed by Victor D. Brenner |
| Reverse Design | Lincoln Memorial, designed by Frank Gasparro |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of a 1975 Lincoln Cent significantly impacts its value, especially for circulation strikes. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are more valuable than circulated examples. The highest premiums are reserved for gems (MS65 and above), with MS67 and MS68 examples being particularly scarce and valuable.
For proof coins, the difference between PR69 and PR70 can be substantial in terms of value. Cameo and Deep Cameo examples, which exhibit strong contrast between frosted devices and mirrored fields, are highly sought after and command higher premiums.
Mintage: 5,451,476,142
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS66, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to collectors building complete sets
Mintage: 4,505,275,300
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to MS66, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to collectors building complete sets
Mintage: 2,845,450
Rarity Scale: Common for proofs
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in grades up to PR69, scarce in PR70
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, popular among proof set collectors
Strike quality is an important factor for 1975 cents. Well-struck coins with full details, especially on Lincoln’s hair and the Lincoln Memorial columns, are more desirable. Rich, original mint luster adds to the appeal and value of uncirculated examples.
For copper cents like those from 1975, attractive natural toning can enhance value. However, spotting, discoloration, or unattractive toning can detract from a coin’s desirability. The absence of contact marks, especially on high points like Lincoln’s cheek, is crucial for achieving top grades and maximum value.
