The 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $1 to $5 in typical circulated or proof condition, but well-preserved examples graded PR69 or PR70 can sell for $50 to over $200 at auction. If you found one of these coins in an old collection or proof set, you’re holding something worth knowing about.
What Makes the 1979-S Type 1 Special
Not all 1979-S pennies are the same — and that’s exactly why collectors pay attention to them. The San Francisco Mint produced two distinct varieties of the 1979-S proof Lincoln cent, and the difference comes down to the mintmark. The Type 1 has a “filled S” mintmark, which looks slightly blobby or rounded compared to the crisper, more defined “clear S” on the Type 2.
This might sound like a tiny detail, but in the coin collecting world, it matters a lot. The 1979-S Type 1 was the first version struck that year, and while it’s not rare by any means — millions were made as part of proof sets — collectors still seek out high-grade examples.
If you’re not sure which variety you have, using the best coin identifier app can help you zoom in on the mintmark and compare it to known examples. Technology has made it easier than ever for everyday people to identify subtle coin differences without needing to visit a dealer.
1979-S Type 1 Penny Value by Grade
Proof coins like the 1979-S are graded on a slightly different scale than business-strike coins. They’re evaluated on their reflective surfaces, cameo contrast, and the sharpness of their details. Here’s a general breakdown of what the 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny is worth depending on its grade:
| Grade | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| PR60–PR64 | Proof, minor blemishes | $1–$5 |
| PR65–PR67 | Gem Proof, light cameo | $5–$20 |
| PR68 DCAM | Deep Cameo, near perfect | $20–$75 |
| PR69 DCAM | Nearly flawless Deep Cameo | $75–$150 |
| PR70 DCAM | Perfect Proof | $150–$250+ |
For the most up-to-date auction results and certified coin prices, you can explore detailed 1979 Lincoln Penny pricing data by grade and condition to see what buyers are actually paying right now.
Where These Coins Came From and How Many Exist
The 1979-S Lincoln Penny was only sold in proof sets directly from the U.S. Mint. These sets were marketed to collectors, not released into everyday circulation. The Mint produced over 3.6 million proof sets that year, meaning there are plenty of Type 1 examples out there. Because of this high mintage, the coin isn’t considered rare, and most examples in average proof condition aren’t going to make you rich.
That said, coins graded PR70 DCAM are extraordinarily difficult to find even among millions struck. Perfection is rare in any coin, and the 1979-S Type 1 is no exception. If you’ve got a coin from an old proof set that hasn’t been touched in decades, it might be worth getting it professionally graded by PCGS or NGC before selling.
How to Check If Your 1979-S Penny Is Type 1 or Type 2
The simplest way to tell the difference is to look at the “S” mintmark under magnification. On the Type 1 (Filled S), the openings of the “S” appear partially closed or filled in — the loops of the letter don’t look as open or sharp. On the Type 2 (Clear S), introduced later in the year, the mintmark is more defined with open, clean curves.
You can use a jeweler’s loupe, a coin microscope, or a smartphone app to get a close look. CoinHix is a great tool for this — the app lets you scan your coin and instantly compare it against a database of known varieties, helping you confirm whether you have a Type 1 or Type 2 without guessing.
If you want a full picture of what your coin is worth and how it compares to recent sales, this complete 1979 penny value guide covers all mintmarks and varieties in detail, including auction history and collector demand trends.
Is It Worth Selling or Holding On To?
For most people, a 1979-S Type 1 proof penny pulled from an old proof set is going to be worth a modest amount — think a few dollars at best unless it’s in exceptional condition. But if you’re sitting on a high-grade example, especially one with deep cameo contrast, it’s worth getting an appraisal or running it through CoinHix to get an instant market estimate before you hand it over for pocket change.
Collector interest in modern proof coins has grown steadily, and with the right grade, even “common” coins like this one can fetch strong prices. If you’re new to the hobby, apps like CoinHix make it easy to start understanding what you’ve got — no coin shop visit required.
—
FAQ
Q: How do I know if my 1979-S penny is Type 1 or Type 2?
A: Look at the “S” mintmark under magnification. The Type 1 has a filled or blobby-looking “S” where the loops appear partially closed. The Type 2, introduced later in 1979, has a sharper, cleaner “S” with open curves. A coin app or loupe can help you see the difference clearly.
Q: Is the 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny rare?
A: Not particularly. Over 3.6 million proof sets were made in 1979, so there are millions of Type 1 examples in existence. However, coins in perfect PR70 DCAM condition are genuinely rare and can be worth significantly more than average examples.
Q: Where is the best place to sell a 1979-S Type 1 penny?
A: eBay is a popular option for selling proof coins to collectors directly. If your coin is high-grade, consider getting it certified by PCGS or NGC first — slabbed coins in PR68 or better often sell for considerably more. Online platforms, coin shows, and local dealers are all viable options depending on the condition of your coin.
