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The 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $3 in typical Proof condition to over $1,500 for high-grade specimens. While most found in old collections are common, specific minting details can significantly increase the value of this copper-colored cent for lucky collectors.
| Condition/Grade | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|
| Proof-65 (Type 1) | $3.00 – $5.00 |
| Proof-69 (Type 1) | $15.00 – $25.00 |
| Proof-70 Ultra Cameo | $1,000+ |
Understanding the 1979-S Type 1 Proof Penny
If you have discovered a shiny, mirror-like penny dated 1979 with an “S” mint mark, you likely have a Proof coin. Unlike the billions of pennies minted in Philadelphia or Denver for general circulation, the San Francisco Mint produced these specifically for collectors. In 1979, a unique transition occurred at the mint regarding the punch used to create the “S” mint mark. This transition resulted in two distinct varieties: the Type 1 (Filled S) and the Type 2 (Clear S).
Identifying your coin correctly is the first step in determining its worth. Many people use a top coin identifier app to zoom in on the mint mark and distinguish between these two varieties. The Type 1 variety features a mint mark where the loops of the “S” are nearly filled in, looking more like a blob or a “filled” letter.
Because millions of these were produced in Proof sets, a standard 1979-S Type 1 is a common sight in the numismatic world. However, the condition—often referred to as “grade” by professionals—dictates whether your coin is worth a few dollars or a few hundred. Using CoinKnow can help beginners understand the visual differences that professional graders look for when evaluating surface preservation.
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How to Identify the Type 1 vs. Type 2 Variety
The main difference between the Type 1 and Type 2 lies in the clarity of the mint mark. On the Type 1 “Filled S,” the geometry of the letter is obscured. The internal holes of the “S” are small and often appear choked with metal. This happened because the minting punch was worn out and had been polished down, losing its sharp detail. It was used for most of the 1979 production year before being replaced late in the year by the Type 2 punch.
The Type 2 “Clear S” has very distinct bulbous ends and a clear, open path through the center of the letter. Investors and collectors generally value the Type 2 slightly higher because it is rarer within the 1979 production run. To get a better sense of market trends, checking the 1979 Lincoln Cent price guide can provide real-time updates on which variety is currently fetching higher premiums at auction.
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Distinguishing these two varieties requires a magnifying glass or a high-quality digital camera. If the “S” looks messy and clumped, it’s a Type 1. If it looks sharp and well-defined, you might have hit the jackpot with a Type 2. Regardless of the type, keeping the coin in a protective flip is essential to maintain its value.
| Feature | Type 1 Characteristics | Type 2 Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Mint Mark Appearance | Indistinct, “Blob-like” | Clear, Sharp Edges |
| Internal Loops | Filled or nearly filled | Wide open and clear |
| Rarity | Common (Majority) | Scarce (Late year) |
The Impact of the “Cameo” Effect on Value
When discussing the 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny value, the term “Cameo” (CAM) or “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) frequently appears. Proof coins are struck using specially prepared dies. When a die is fresh, it produces a coin with frosted details (Lincoln’s portrait and the lettering) that stand out against a mirror-like field. This contrast is highly prized by collectors.
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A standard Proof might have lost some of this frost, appearing “brilliant” but flat. However, a “Deep Cameo” specimen is considered the pinnacle of the 1979-S production. Look at the current value of Red (RD) 1979 Pennies to see how much deeper the market goes for coins that retain their original copper luster and high-contrast finish.
If you suspect your coin has this intense contrast, it is worth far more than the standard version. Tools like CoinKnow allow you to compare your coin against high-resolution images of Deep Cameo examples, helping you decide if it is worth the cost of professional third-party grading by services like PCGS or NGC.
Evaluating Condition and Grading Scales
For most people, a penny is just a penny, but in the world of coin collecting, the “grade” is everything. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70. Since the 1979-S Type 1 was only issued in Proof sets, you won’t find them in “Good” or “Fine” condition like coins from your pocket. They will almost always be in a “Proof” state (designated as PR or PF).
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A grade of PR65 is considered “Gem Proof” and is quite affordable. However, once you reach PR69 or the perfect PR70, the price skyrockets. A PR70 1979-S Type 1 is incredibly rare because it means the coin is flawless even under 5x magnification. Most coins that have been handled or kept in poor storage develop tiny scratches known as “hairlines,” which prevent them from reaching these top tiers.
| Grade Designation | Market Value (Type 1) |
|---|---|
| PR63 (Choice) | $1.50 – $2.50 |
| PR67 (Superb Gem) | $8.00 – $12.00 |
| PR69 DCAM | $25.00 – $45.00 |
| PR70 DCAM | $1,250 – $1,600 |
Are 1979-S Pennies Made of Real Copper?
One reason why hobbyists love the 1979-S Type 1 is its metal composition. In 1982, the U.S. Mint transitioned from a 95% copper alloy to a zinc-core penny coated in a thin layer of copper. This means that your 1979-S is one of the “last of the real copper pennies.”
While the melt value of the copper alone is higher than the one-cent face value, you should never melt these coins down, as it is generally illegal to melt US cents for profit. Furthermore, the numismatic value of a Proof coin far exceeds its raw metal content. The weight of your 1979-S penny should be approximately 3.11 grams, whereas the newer zinc pennies weigh only 2.5 grams.
Many users of the CoinKnow app enjoy tracking their collections not just for price, but for historical significance. Owning a 1979-S is owning a piece of the era before “inflation pennies” became the norm. The deep red-orange glow of a well-preserved 1979 copper cent is visually striking compared to the more modern, duller versions.
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Errors to Look for in 1979 Lincoln Pennies
While the Type 1 vs. Type 2 distinction is the most famous variety for this year, other errors can occur. Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) or Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) errors are rare for the 1979-S Proof, but they are highly coveted. In a DDO error, you might see slight overlapping or “shadowing” of the letters in “In God We Trust” or the digits in the date.
Off-center strikes or planchet clips are also possible, though extremely rare for Proof coins because of the strict quality controls at the San Francisco Mint. If you find a 1979-S penny that looks “wrong”—perhaps missing a portion of the rim or having distorted letters—do not clean it! Cleaning a coin with chemicals or cloth significantly reduces its value to collectors.
Instead, use a soft pair of gloves to handle the coin by its edges. Even oils from your fingertips can leave permanent marks on the delicate surface of a Proof 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny. If you think you’ve found a major error, it’s worth having it appraised by a local coin shop or using an app to get an initial opinion.
FAQ
Q: How many 1979-S Type 1 pennies were made?
A: The San Francisco Mint produced a total of 3,677,175 Proof sets in 1979. While most of these contain the Type 1 variety, it is estimated that the transition to Type 2 happened near the very end of the year, making Type 1 the much more common variety.
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Q: Where is the “S” mint mark located on a 1979 penny?
A: You can find the “S” mint mark on the “heads” side (obverse) of the coin, located just below the year “1979.” It is a small letter that indicates the coin originated from the San Francisco Mint.
Q: Is a 1979-S Type 1 penny rare?
A: Technically, no. Millions were produced and held by collectors. However, finding one in “Perfect” PR70 condition is extremely rare. Most 1979-S pennies found in collections are worth $3 to $10, but top-tier graded specimens can reach four-figure sums.
Q: Can I find a 1979-S Type 1 in my pocket change?
A: It is highly unlikely. Since these were only issued in special Proof sets for collectors, they were never intended to circulate. If you do find one in change, it will likely be scratched and “impaired,” meaning its value will be closer to just its weight in copper.