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1972-D

Small Cents · Lincoln Memorial Cents · 1959–2008
Regular
Weight3.11 g
Diameter19.05 mm
MintDenver
StrikeCirculation strike
Mintage 2,665,071,400
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition95% Copper, 5% Zinc
DesignerVictor D. Brenner / Frank Gasparro
Collector's Key IDCK-656

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About this coinHistory

Denver struck over 2.66 billion cents in 1972, bearing the "D" mintmark. These coins entered circulation during the year of the Watergate break-in, though the full significance of that event would not become clear until the following year's Senate hearings and the eventual release of the White House tapes.

The 1972-D is common in all grades. It should not be confused with the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse, which was a Philadelphia issue. The Denver cent of this year presents no challenges for collectors and is available in quantity at face value or just above it.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G) $0.01 $0.01
VG-8 Very Good (VG) $0.01 $0.01
F-12 Fine (F) $0.01 $0.01
VF-20 Very Fine (VF) $0.01 $0.01
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF) $0.01 $0.01
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU) $0.01 $0.01
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS)
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How much is a 1972-D Lincoln Memorial Cent worth?
In Good condition it runs about $0.01, rising to roughly $0.01 in About Uncirculated. These are reference values, not an appraisal.
How many 1972-D Lincoln Memorial Cents were minted?
2,665,071,400 were struck.
What is a 1972-D Lincoln Memorial Cent made of?
95% Copper, 5% Zinc, weighing 3.11 g.
What is the melt value of a 1972-D 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 1972-D Lincoln Memorial Cent a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.