The 1972 S penny may look like just another common old coin, but this 1972 S Penny holds a special place in U.S. numismatic history. While most of these rare coins are only worth a cent or two, rare varieties and minting errors can push their value into the thousands. If you’re curious whether that old penny in your collection is worth more than pocket change, We have shared everything you need to know about the 1972 S penny mintage, value, features, errors, and tips to identify rare ones.
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Why the 1972 S Penny Matters
The 1972 Lincoln penny was part of the last generation of mostly copper coins. After 1982, the U.S. Mint switched to zinc-based pennies. Out of the three mint locations producing pennies in 1972—Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco—the San Francisco Mint (marked with an “S”) had the lowest mintage for circulation and proof coins.
1972 Penny Mintage by Mint Location
| Mint Location | Mint Mark | Mintage | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | None | 2,933,255,000 | Most common |
| Denver | D | 2,665,071,400 | Often well-struck |
| San Francisco | S | 376,939,108 | Includes 3.26 million proofs |
San Francisco produced two types:
- Business strikes: Regular coins used in circulation
- Proof coins: Mirror-like coins made for collectors
How to Identify a 1972 S Penny
Obverse (Front):
- Portrait of Abraham Lincoln
- “LIBERTY” on the left
- “IN GOD WE TRUST” at the top
- Year “1972” with an “S” below it
Reverse (Back):
- Lincoln Memorial in the center
- “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” at the top
- “E PLURIBUS UNUM” above the Memorial
- “ONE CENT” at the bottom
Key Specifications:
- Material: 95% copper, 5% zinc
- Weight: 3.11 grams
- Diameter: 19 mm
- Edge: Plain
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1972 S Penny Mintage and Value Guide
Most 1972 S pennies in circulation are worth between 1¢ and 50¢. However, coins in top condition or with errors are far more valuable.
Value by Coin Grade and Color
| Grade | Red (RD) | Red-Brown (RB) | Brown (BN) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circulated | Face value | Face value | Face value |
| MS/PR 65 | $10–$50 | $5–$20 | $1–$5 |
| MS/PR 67 | $800–$1,955 | $150–$325 | $50–$100 |
| PR 69 (Proof) | – | – | $275+ |
Color Designation Tip:
- Red (RD): Original bright copper color
- Red-Brown (RB): Slightly faded with some brown
- Brown (BN): Fully toned, duller appearance
Key Errors and Rare Varieties
While most 1972-S pennies are common, certain errors can skyrocket their value. Look out for the following:
The $14,400 Doubled Die Obverse (DDO)
This error occurs when the die shifts slightly between strikes, causing visible doubling in:
- The date “1972”
- “LIBERTY”
- “IN GOD WE TRUST”
Value: A 1972 DDO penny (without a mint mark) in MS67 RD sold for $14,400 in 2019.
Though most DDOs were struck in Philadelphia, a few San Francisco DDOs exist, making them incredibly rare.
Other 1972-S Errors to Know
| Error Type | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Off-center strikes | Design shifted off the coin | $15–$500 |
| Re-punched mint mark | Multiple impressions of the “S” mark | $100–$250 |
| Wrong planchet | Coin struck on a different metal blank | $2,000–$15,000 |
| Die cracks/cuds | Raised lines or blobs from die damage | $5–$50 (minor error) |
How to Preserve and Grade Your 1972 S Penny
Do NOT clean your coin — even gentle cleaning can reduce its value by over 50%.
Best Practices:
- Handle only by the edges using cotton gloves
- Store in PVC-free holders like Mylar flips
- Keep in dry, cool environments (30–50% humidity)
- Submit rare coins to PCGS or NGC for professional grading
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the 1972 S penny rare?
Not rare in circulated condition. But high-grade coins (MS67+) or those with minting errors can be worth hundreds or more.
What’s the value of a 1972 S proof penny?
Around $1.22 in average condition. Deep Cameo proofs or PR69 coins can reach $275+
Should I get my 1972 S penny graded?
If your coin shows no wear and has potential as a high-grade or error coin, grading by PCGS or NGC can boost its market value.
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Conclusion
The 1972 S penny mintage is a popular topic among collectors and casual coin collectors alike. While most of these old and rare coins are merely worth their face value, unusual mistakes, proof versions, and high-grade examples can fetch high amount at auctions.