Most of us pass by pennies without a second thought. They’re small, common, and often end up in jars, drawers, or at the bottom of bags. But what if one of those old pennies is worth more than just one cent—maybe even hundreds of dollars? That’s the case with the 1960 Small Date Lincoln Cent, a rare and fascinating variety that collectors love to hunt for. At first glance, this coin looks like any other Lincoln penny, but a small difference in the date design makes it valuable. In this article, we’ll explore the story behind this coin, what makes it special, and how you can tell if you have one.
Coin Name: 1960 Small Date Lincoln Cent (and D Over D Error Variety)
The 1960 Lincoln cent was minted in two different varieties: Small Date and Large Date. The difference between the two is in the size and position of the numbers in the date “1960” on the front (obverse) side of the coin.
In the Small Date variety:
- The numbers in “1960” are shorter and more closely spaced.
- The “6” is level with the “1” and “9” instead of rising above them.
- The “0” is also thinner and more oval in shape.
The Large Date version, which is more common, has taller numbers, and the “6” sits higher than the rest.
But there’s more! In addition to the Small Date variety, some 1960 pennies—especially from the Denver Mint (marked with a “D”)—also have a D over D (D/D) mint mark error. This error happened when the Denver mint mark was punched onto the coin more than once but not perfectly aligned. This created a doubling effect, known as a repunched mint mark (RPM).
Collectors highly value these types of errors. A 1960-D Small Date with a clear D over D mint mark can be worth $100 to $500 or more, depending on condition and grade.
Why Is the 1960 Small Date Penny Valuable?
There are several reasons why the 1960 Small Date penny (especially the D over D variety) is worth money:
- Minting Variety: Not all 1960 pennies are the same, and collectors love varieties.
- Harder to Find: The Small Date version was produced in lower numbers compared to the Large Date.
- Error Factor: The D over D mint mark is an additional mistake that increases the coin’s value.
- Historical Interest: It’s part of the popular Lincoln cent series and helps tell the story of U.S. coin minting history.
Even if your coin doesn’t have the mint mark error, a regular 1960 Small Date penny in uncirculated condition can still be worth several dollars to collectors.
How to Identify the 1960 Small Date Penny
Here are some simple steps to check if your 1960 penny is a Small Date:
- Compare the Date: Look closely at the numbers in “1960.” If the “6” is level with the “1” and “9” and the “0” is thin, you likely have a Small Date.
- Use a Magnifying Glass: To check for a D over D mint mark on a 1960-D penny, use a magnifier to look closely at the letter “D.”
- Look Online: Compare your coin with reference images from trusted numismatic websites.
- Weigh and Inspect: Make sure the coin is authentic and not altered. It should weigh about 3.11 grams.
- Professional Grading: If you think you have the Small Date or D/D variety, have it checked and graded by services like PCGS or NGC.
Table: 1960 Small Date Penny Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coin Name | 1960 Small Date Lincoln Cent |
| Mint Marks | No mint mark (Philadelphia), D (Denver) |
| Variety Type | Small Date vs. Large Date |
| Known Error | D Over D (RPM) |
| Value Range | $5 – $500+ depending on condition |
| Metal Content | 95% copper, 5% tin and zinc |
The 1960 Small Date penny is a great example of how tiny differences in coins can lead to big rewards. This variety, especially with the D over D mint mark, has become a favorite among collectors and can turn an ordinary coin roll into a valuable find. Whether you’re a casual coin collector or someone just going through old jars at home, keep an eye out for the small details—because that “worthless” penny might just be worth hundreds. A magnifying glass and a little curiosity could be all it takes to uncover a hidden treasure in your pocket change.
FAQ’s:
Q1. What’s the difference between the 1960 Small Date and Large Date pennies?
A1. The Small Date has shorter, more closely spaced numbers. The “6” is level with the other digits, and the “0” is thin. The Large Date has taller numbers and a higher “6.”
Q2. How much is a 1960 Small Date penny worth?
A2. It depends on condition. A circulated one may be worth a few dollars, while an uncirculated or error version (like the D over D) could fetch $100–$500+.
Q3. How can I check if my 1960-D penny has the D over D error?
A3. Use a magnifier to closely inspect the “D” mint mark. If you see signs of doubling or overlapping, you might have the rare RPM error.
Q4. Is the 1960 Small Date penny rare?
A4. It’s not extremely rare, but it is much less common than the Large Date version, which makes it more valuable to collectors.
Q5. Where can I sell a 1960 Small Date error penny?
A5. You can sell it through coin dealers, online auction sites like eBay, or have it graded and sell it through a coin show or certified auction house.