Think your 1991 Lincoln penny is just pocket change? Think again! 
Some 1991 pennies — especially proofs and error coins — have sold for over $5,000.
At Pennyverse.info, we’ll show you how to tell if your 1991 penny is a rare treasure hiding in plain sight. 
Why Some 1991 Pennies Are Worth More
Most 1991 pennies are common, but a few are special thanks to minting quirks and condition.
Here’s what affects value:
Mint Marks: Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (D), or San Francisco (S — proof only)
Condition: Graded as Red (RD), Red-Brown (RB), or Brown (BN)
Errors: Doubled dies, repunched mintmarks, and off-center strikes
Special Sets: Proof coins from official U.S. Mint sets
1991 Penny Value Chart
| Variety | Circulated | Uncirculated (MS-63) | Gem (MS-65+ RD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1991-P | $0.01–$0.25 | $1–$5 | $10–$50 |
| 1991-D | $0.01–$0.25 | $1–$5 | $10–$50 |
| 1991-S Proof | $1–$5 | $5–$15 | $50–$5,000+ |
Values increase sharply for top-graded proofs and verified mint errors!
Top 3 Most Valuable 1991 Pennies
1991-S Proof (Deep Cameo) — Worth Up to $5,000!
- Features mirror-like fields and frosted designs.
- Only 2,867,787 proof sets minted.
Record Sale: $5,175 (PR-70 DCAM, 2023).
1991-D Doubled Die Obverse — Worth $300–$1,500
- Look for doubling on the date and the word “LIBERTY.”
- Only a handful (5–10 known) have surfaced so far!
1991-P Repunched Mintmark (RPM) — Worth $50–$500
- A second “P” is visible under magnification.
- Use a 10x loupe to confirm this tiny but valuable detail.
How to Identify Valuable 1991 Pennies
Follow these simple steps to see if your penny is special:
Step 1: Check the Mintmark
- (No mark) = Philadelphia
- (D) = Denver
- (S) = San Francisco (proof coins only)
Step 2: Assess the Condition
Red (RD): Full copper shine, top value
Red-Brown (RB): Partial luster
Brown (BN): Fully circulated
Step 3: Inspect for Errors
Use a 10x loupe or magnifying app to find:
- Doubled lettering
- Repunched mintmarks
- Misaligned or off-center strikes
Where to Find Rare 1991 Pennies
You don’t have to be a pro collector to find one! Try these spots:
Unopened Mint or Proof Sets
Bank Rolls (ask for customer-wrapped pennies)
Estate Sales or garage sales
eBay Bulk Lots — search for “1991 penny errors”
What to Do If You Find a Rare 1991 Penny
Handle with Cotton Gloves — avoid fingerprints.- Store in an Archival Holder — protect from air and scratches.
Get Certified — submit to PCGS or NGC (cost: $30–$100).
Where to Sell:
- Heritage Auctions — best for PR-70 proof coins.
- eBay — great for mid-range errors.
Coin Shows — sell directly to collectors and dealers.
Avoid:
- Cleaning your coin (it ruins value!).
- Selling uncertified coins worth over $500.
FAQs About 1991 Pennies
Q: Are all 1991-D pennies valuable?
Only those with errors or in Gem condition — most are face value.
Q: How much is a 1991-S proof penny worth?
Anywhere from $2 to $5,000+, depending on grade and cameo contrast.
Q: Where’s the mintmark located?
Right below the date on the coin’s obverse (front).
Why Collectors Love the 1991 Penny
- Last years of the Lincoln Memorial reverse design.
- Transitional metal composition makes it historically interesting.
Affordable for beginners — with exciting jackpot potential!
Think You’ve Found a Treasure?
Your 1991 penny might be worth more than you think!
Get a free expert appraisal today at Pennyverse.info and uncover the value hiding in your change.
