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2019-W

Small Cents · Lincoln Shield Cents · 2010–2026
Regular NIFC
Weight2.5 g
Diameter19.05 mm
MintWest Point
StrikeNIFC (Not Intended for Circulation)
Mintage 372,400,000
EdgePlain
Alignment↑↓ Coin
CompositionCopper-plated Zinc (97.5% Zinc, 2.5% Copper)
DesignerVictor D. Brenner
Collector's Key IDCK-849

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About this coinHistory

The 2019-W Lincoln Shield cent represents a historic first: a Lincoln cent bearing the "W" mintmark of the United States Mint at West Point, New York. The West Point facility, located on the grounds of the United States Military Academy, had never before produced cents for distribution. The Mint struck these coins and mixed them into bags of regular Philadelphia and Denver cents shipped to banks, creating a nationwide treasure hunt. Collectors searched rolls and bags of cents hoping to find the scarce West Point issues among billions of common coins.

Approximately 372.4 million 2019-W cents were produced, a large number in absolute terms but a small fraction of the total 2019 cent output. The coins are visually identical to regular circulation cents except for the "W" mintmark on the obverse, requiring collectors to examine each coin carefully. The program generated enormous public excitement and media coverage, introducing millions of Americans to coin collecting. Many people who had never looked at their change began checking every cent for the West Point mintmark. The 2019-W cent proved that the Mint could create collector interest without special finishes or premium pricing, simply by placing a scarce mintmark into everyday circulation.

Price guideReference

Reference data only — not an appraisal.

GradeDescriptionLowHigh
G-4 Good (G)
VG-8 Very Good (VG)
F-12 Fine (F)
VF-20 Very Fine (VF)
EF-40 Extremely Fine (EF)
AU-50 About Uncirculated (AU)
MS-60 Uncirculated (MS)
MS-63 Choice Uncirculated (MS)
Frequently Asked QuestionsFAQ
How many 2019-W Lincoln Shield Cents were minted?
372,400,000 were struck.
What is a 2019-W Lincoln Shield Cent made of?
Copper-plated Zinc (97.5% Zinc, 2.5% Copper), weighing 2.5 g.
What is the melt value of a 2019-W Lincoln Shield 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 2019-W Lincoln Shield Cent a key date?
It's a more common date overall, though scarcer die varieties may carry a premium — see the varieties list.