Price Guide for 2010 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: $6.00 – $7.00Uncirculated: $6.00 – $4,994.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.01 – $510.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6.00 – $1,400.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $10.00 – $504.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.21 – $995.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4.00 – $600.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $10.00 – $61.00
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eBayUncirculated: $3.26 – $79.95
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $4.00 – $1,900.00
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3rd Party PriceCirculated: $7.00 – $13.00Uncirculated: $6.00 – $216.00
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eBayCirculated: $950.00Uncirculated: $0.99 – $1,375.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $6.00 – $1,800.00
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eBayUncirculated: $75.00
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eBayCirculated: $0.99 – $83.00Uncirculated: $0.99 – $138.00
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3rd Party PriceUncirculated: $6.00 – $460.00
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eBayUncirculated: $0.99 – $507.00
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PCGS Price GuideUncirculated: $3.00 – $75.00
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eBayUncirculated: $9.50 – $375.00
Design and Specifications of the 2010 Cent
The 2010 Lincoln Cent marked a significant change in the coin’s design history. It introduced the new Union Shield reverse, replacing the Lincoln Memorial design that had been in use since 1959. This change was part of the Lincoln Bicentennial celebration, which began in 2009 with four different reverse designs depicting Lincoln’s life stages.
The Union Shield symbolizes Lincoln’s preservation of the United States as a single, unified country. This design was intended to be a permanent change, representing both Lincoln’s legacy and the enduring strength of the nation.
| Weight | 2.5 grams |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 19.05 mm |
| Mint Marks | P, D, S |
| Composition | 99.2% zinc, 0.8% copper |
| Obverse Design | Portrait of Abraham Lincoln, designed by Victor D. Brenner |
| Reverse Design | Union Shield, designed by Lyndall Bass |
Rarity Factors and Value Drivers
The condition of 2010 Lincoln Cents significantly impacts their value, especially for circulation strikes. While these coins are generally common, specimens in pristine, uncirculated condition (MS65 and above) can command a premium due to their eye appeal and preservation quality.
For circulation strikes, coins with full, original mint luster and no contact marks or blemishes are highly desirable. The quality of the strike is also important, with well-defined details on both the obverse and reverse adding to the coin’s value.
Proof coins are expected to be in near-perfect condition. Any imperfections, such as handling marks or fingerprints, can significantly reduce their value. Deep cameo proofs with strong contrast between frosted devices and mirrored fields are particularly sought after.
Mintage: 2,672,325,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in all grades, including high mint state
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily collected as part of year sets
Mintage: 2,047,660,000
Rarity Scale: Common
Circulation Status: Widely Circulated
Preservation Rarity: Common in all grades, including high mint state
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Low, primarily collected as part of year sets
Mintage: 1,689,686
Rarity Scale: Common (for proofs)
Circulation Status: Not Intended for Circulation
Preservation Rarity: Common in high grades (PR65 and above)
Varieties Errors: None significant
Market Demand: Moderate, collected by proof set enthusiasts
Toning can play a role in the value of 2010 cents, particularly for proof issues. Natural, attractive toning that enhances the coin’s appearance can increase its desirability among collectors.
While not typically found on modern issues, any significant mint errors or varieties could greatly increase the value of a 2010 cent. These might include off-center strikes, double dies, or wrong planchet errors.
The historical significance of the 2010 cent as the first year of the new Union Shield reverse design may contribute to its long-term collectible value, especially for high-grade examples and complete year sets.
