Small Cents

Small Cents are a type of U.S. coin with a face value of one cent. They are smaller than the earlier large cents and have been minted in several designs including the Flying Eagle Cent, the Indian Head Cent, the Lincoln Wheat Cent, the Lincoln Memorial Cent, the Lincoln Bicentennial series, and the current Lincoln Shield Cent.

The composition of Small Cent coins has changed several times over the years. The Flying Eagle Cent and Indian Head Cent were made of 88% copper and 12% nickel. The Lincoln Cent was originally minted in 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc from 1909 until 1942, and again from 1947 to 1962. During the years 1943, due to the demand for copper during World War II, the cent was made from zinc-coated steel. In 1962, the mint removed the tin, making the cent 95% copper and 5% zinc until 1982. Since 1982, the penny has

The value of Small Cent coins depends on their type, year, mint mark, condition, and rarity. For example, while most Lincoln Cents are worth only face value, certain key dates, such as the 1909-S VDB and the 1943 copper cent, can be worth significant amounts. Similarly, Flying Eagle Cents and Indian Head Cents can be worth more than face value due to their age and collector interest. For a precise valuation, a professional coin grading service should be consulted.