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1971-S Proof

Small Cents · Lincoln Memorial Cents · 1959–2008
Key date Proof
Weight3.11 g
Diameter19.05 mm
MintSan Francisco
StrikeProof
Mintage 3,220,733 Combined mintage for all 1971-S proof varieties
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition95% Copper, 5% Zinc
DesignerVictor D. Brenner / Frank Gasparro
Collector's Key IDCK-652

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About this coinHistory

The 1971-S Proof cent was produced at the San Francisco Mint in a quantity of approximately 3.22 million pieces, distributed within that year's proof sets. The proof program was well established at San Francisco by this point, and the quality of striking was consistently high.

The 1971 proof set arrived in collectors' hands during a year of economic uncertainty. Nixon's decision to close the gold window in August 1971 transformed the global monetary system. The proof cent, of course, was unaffected in design or composition. It features the standard deep mirror fields and frosted devices that collectors expected. Cameo examples are available, and the 1971-S Proof remains affordably priced.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
PR-63 Proof (PR)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How many 1971-S Proof Lincoln Memorial Cents were minted?
3,220,733 were struck (Combined mintage for all 1971-S proof varieties).
What is a 1971-S Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent made of?
95% Copper, 5% Zinc, weighing 3.11 g.
What is the melt value of a 1971-S Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent?
Its melt value is its metal content multiplied by the current spot price. See our melt calculator on the metals pages for a live figure.
Is the 1971-S Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent a key date?
Yes — the 1971-S Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent is considered a key date in the Lincoln Memorial Cents series and commands a strong premium.