The 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny is worth anywhere from $3.00 in standard Proof condition to over $1,500 for high-grade specimens. If you have recently found a shiny 1979 penny with an “S” mint mark, you are likely looking at a special Proof coin designated specifically for collectors.

Grade/Condition	Estimated Value
Proof 60 – 65 (Type 1)	$3.00 – $8.00
Proof 69 Deep Cameo (Type 1)	$15.00 – $25.00
Proof 70 Deep Cameo (Type 1)	$400.00 – $1,600.00

Understanding the 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny

In 1979, the San Francisco Mint produced millions of Lincoln Cents exclusively for collectors. Unlike the pennies you find in your pocket change, these “Proof” coins were struck using polished dies and planchets, resulting in a mirror-like finish. However, 1979 was a transitional year for the Mint’s equipment. If you are unsure whether your coin is a standard strike or a special proof, using a top coin identifier app can help you distinguish the subtle strike differences instantly.

The “Type 1” designation refers to the specific shape of the “S” mint mark. During the early part of the year, the Mint used an old, worn-out punch for the “S” logo. This resulted in a “Filled S,” where the center of the letter is blob-like and difficult to see clearly.

Later in the year, they switched to a clearer, sharper punch known as the Type 2. Because the Type 1 was the standard for the majority of the year, it is generally more common than the Type 2, but it remains a staple for anyone building a complete Lincoln Memorial Cent collection. For collectors using CoinKnow, identifying these mint mark varieties is much simpler than trying to squint through a magnifying glass.

The “Filled S” Variety vs. Clear S

The primary difference between a 1979-S Type 1 and a Type 2 is the clarity of the mint mark located just below the date. In the Type 1 variety, the loops of the “S” are almost entirely filled with metal. This happens because the punch used to create the coin dies had become flattened over time.

If you look at the 1979 penny value guide, you will notice that collectors often pay a premium for clarity. While the Type 2 “Clear S” is generally the rarer of the two, the Type 1 is still highly sought after when it achieves a “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) status.

Deep Cameo refers to the intense contrast between the frosted portrait of Abraham Lincoln and the shiny, mirror-like background. To ensure you are getting an accurate appraisal of your coin’s luster and strike, the CoinKnow app provides visual references that show exactly what a “Filled S” looks like compared to a “Clear S.”

Grading and Condition Impacts Value

For the 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny, the grade is everything. Since these coins were sold in protective plastic sets by the Government, most surviving examples are in decent shape. However, “Perfect” coins—those graded Proof 70—are incredibly rare and command high prices at auction.

Technical Grade	Market Description	Price Range
PR63	Minor spots or hairlines	$2 – $4
PR67 Cameo	Strong contrast, few marks	$10 – $15
PR69 Deep Cameo	Virtually flawless to the eye	$20 – $35
PR70 Deep Cameo	Perfect under 5x magnification	$500+

When checking the current 1979-S penny auction records, you will see that a single point of difference in grade can mean hundreds of dollars. Most casual collectors will find their coins fall into the PR65 to PR68 range, which are affordable yet beautiful pieces of American history.

The Composition of the 1979 Lincoln Penny

Understanding what your coin is made of is crucial for identifying its authenticity and value. The 1979-S Type 1 Lincoln Penny was minted during the last years of the 95% copper composition. Specifically, it consists of 95% copper and 5% zinc. This gives the coin a heavy, “ringing” sound when dropped (though you should never drop a Proof coin!) and a distinct warm reddish glow.

By 1982, the U.S. Mint transitioned to copper-plated zinc to save on production costs. Because the 1979 pennies are mostly copper, they have a “melt value” that is often higher than one cent, though their numismatic (collector) value is far higher. Using CoinKnow can help you keep track of the fluctuating spot price of copper, which sets the absolute floor for the value of these coins.

Auction Records and Market Trends

The market for 1979-S Type 1 pennies remains stable because they are essential for “Registry Set” collectors—people who try to own the best possible version of every penny ever made. The record price for a 1979-S Type 1 was set several years ago, where a perfect PR70 Deep Cameo specimen sold for over $1,500.

For the everyday American, the value is likely much lower, but still exciting. If you find a 1979-S in a loose coin jar, it was likely removed from a Proof Set. These “impaired proofs” might have scratches or fingerprints, which drops their value to the $1 to $3 range. However, they are still a great find and a perfect way to start a coin collection without spending a fortune.

Year Sold	Grade	Price Sold
2021	PR70 DCAM	$1,050
2022	PR70 DCAM	$940
2023	PR69 DCAM	$28

Tips for Preserving Your 1979-S Penny

If you believe you have a high-value 1979-S Type 1, “handling” is your biggest enemy. The oils on human fingers can permanently stain the copper surface of a Proof penny, causing “milk spots” or dark fingerprints that cannot be removed without damaging the coin.

Always handle your coins by the edges, or better yet, wear lint-free cotton gloves. Store your pennies in PVC-free plastic holders or “flips.” Many beginners make the mistake of cleaning their coins with soap or polish to make them look shinier. Never do this! Cleaning a coin will strip away its original surface and can reduce its value by 90% or more.

## FAQ

Q: How can I tell if my 1979 penny is a Type 1 or Type 2?

A: Look at the “S” mint mark under a magnifying glass. The Type 1 “Filled S” has very small holes in the loops, and the ends of the “S” are bulbous. The Type 2 “Clear S” has very distinct, round holes in the top and bottom loops with sharp, flat ends on the letter.

Q: Is there a 1979-S penny without an S?

A: No. All 1979 pennies struck at the San Francisco Mint have an “S” mint mark. If you have a 1979 penny with no mint mark, it was struck in Philadelphia and is a regular circulation coin, typically worth only a few cents unless it is in perfect condition.

Q: Why is the Proof 70 grade so much more expensive?

A: In the world of coin collecting, “70” is the highest possible grade. It means the coin is perfect even under significant magnification. Because the copper in 1979 pennies is very reactive, finding one that has remained flawless for over 40 years is extremely difficult, making it very rare.

Q: Can I find a 1979-S Type 1 in my pocket change?

A: It is rare, but possible. These are called “impaired proofs.” They occur when someone breaks open a Proof Set and spends the coins. While they won’t be worth hundreds of dollars if they are scratched, they are still a cool piece of history worth more than face value.