Price Guide for 1991 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 – $11,400.00
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eBayUncirculated: $1.50 – $2,650.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6.00 – $8,500.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $3.00 – $1,116.25
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eBayCirculated: $81.00Uncirculated: $4.00 – $420.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6.00 – $11,000.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $14.50
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $173.00 – $881.25
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eBayCirculated: $1,500.00Uncirculated: $17.00 – $210.00
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eBayUncirculated: $8.99 – $16.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $290.00Uncirculated: $6.00 – $661.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.85 – $193.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $1.00 – $60.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00
Design and Specifications of the 1991 Cent
The 1991 Lincoln Cent continued the long-standing tradition of honoring America’s 16th president. This coin marked the 82nd year of the Lincoln Memorial reverse design, which was introduced in 1959. The year 1991 was significant as it saw the dissolution of the Soviet Union, marking the end of the Cold War era.
| Weight | 2.5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Mint Marks | D, P, S |
| Composition | 99.2% zinc, 0.8% copper |
| Obverse Design | Abraham Lincoln's profile facing right, designed by Victor D. Brenner |
| Reverse Design | Lincoln Memorial, designed by Frank Gasparro |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 1991 Lincoln Cents significantly impacts their value, especially for circulation strikes. Coins in uncirculated condition (MS60 and above) are more valuable, with premium prices for those grading MS65 or higher. For proof coins, grades of PR68 or higher are desirable.
Red (RD) coins, those retaining their original copper color, are more valuable than Red-Brown (RB) or Brown (BN) examples. The presence of full steps on the Lincoln Memorial (reverse) can also increase value.
Mintage: 4,747,425,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to collectors building complete sets
Mintage: 4,158,442,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, scarce in MS67 and above
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily of interest to collectors building complete sets
Mintage: 3,220,733
Rarity Scale: Common for proofs
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in most grades, scarce in PR70
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate among proof set collectors
Strike quality is important for 1991 cents, with well-struck coins commanding higher prices. Luster is another crucial factor, especially for uncirculated coins, where bright, reflective surfaces are prized.
While not typically known for attractive toning, some 1991 cents may exhibit appealing color that can enhance their value. Die varieties or errors, though not common for this year, can significantly increase a coin’s value if discovered.
Lastly, the preservation of original mint bloom and absence of contact marks or spotting are highly desirable traits that can substantially impact the coin’s overall value and collectibility.
