Have a photo? Submit it and we'll credit you.

As an eBay Affiliate, Collector's Key may be compensated if you make a purchase through the link(s) above.

1979-S Type 1 Proof

Small Cents · Lincoln Memorial Cents · 1959–2008
Key date Proof
Weight3.11 g
Diameter19.05 mm
MintSan Francisco
StrikeProof
Mintage 3,677,175 Combined mintage for all 1979-S proof varieties
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
Composition95% Copper, 5% Zinc
DesignerVictor D. Brenner / Frank Gasparro
Collector's Key IDCK-683

Collection

collectors own this
on want lists

Your collection

Sign in to track this coin.

About this coinHistory

The 1979-S Type 1 Proof cent features what collectors call the "Filled S" or "Blob S" mintmark. The mintmark on these early 1979 proofs appears thick, rounded, and somewhat indistinct, with the open areas of the "S" partially filled in. The combined proof mintage for 1979 was approximately 3.68 million sets, with the Type 1 accounting for the majority of production.

The distinction between Type 1 and Type 2 mintmarks became apparent when the Mint switched to a new, sharper mintmark punch partway through the proof production run. The Type 1 is the more common of the two and is priced accordingly. Collectors who pursue mintmark variety completeness include both types in their proof sets.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
PR-63 Proof (PR)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How many 1979-S Type 1 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cents were minted?
3,677,175 were struck (Combined mintage for all 1979-S proof varieties).
What is a 1979-S Type 1 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent made of?
95% Copper, 5% Zinc, weighing 3.11 g.
What is the melt value of a 1979-S Type 1 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 1979-S Type 1 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent a key date?
Yes — the 1979-S Type 1 Proof Lincoln Memorial Cent is considered a key date in the Lincoln Memorial Cents series and commands a strong premium.