1978 Lincoln Cent
Base
About This Coin
The 1978 Lincoln Cent is a United States cent from the Lincoln Memorial Cents 1959-2008 series. In 1978, the U.S. Mint struck 9,841,966,181 cents, including 3,127,781 proofs. The obverse features Abraham Lincoln facing right and the reverse displays the Lincoln Memorial building in Washington, D.C.. Both mints active with typically high mintages exceeding 5 billion combined. Struck in 95% copper, 5% zinc, weighing 3.11 grams, 19.05 mm in diameter, with a plain edge. Across its variants, estimated values range from $0 to $3 depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $4.3K in PR70 grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by Victor David Brenner/Frank Gasparro.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 across all of this coin's strike types, from published price guides and, in some cases, recorded auction sales. For most coins the range runs from a well-worn example (around G-4) to an uncirculated one, but individual coins can sell for more or less depending on grade, eye appeal and demand. Compare recent sales of similar coins for a closer estimate.
Specifications
Strike Types & Varieties(3)
1978 (D) Lincoln Memorial Cent
1978 (S) Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent
1978 Lincoln Memorial Cent
Other Base Coins in This Series
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