1959 Proof Lincoln Cent PCGS PR66RD

1959 1c Proof Lincoln Cent PCGS PR66RD  This is a great collector’s item! Let’s break down what this means:

• 1959 Lincoln Cent: This year is significant because it marks the first year of the Lincoln Memorial Reverse design, replacing the Wheat Reverse. This makes it a popular coin for collectors.
• Proof: This means the coin was specially struck for collectors, not for general circulation. Proof coins are typically struck multiple times with polished dies on polished planchets, resulting in a mirror-like field and frosted devices (the raised elements of the design).
• PCGS: This stands for Professional Coin Grading Service, one of the top two most reputable third-party coin grading services in the world (the other being NGC). Their grading is highly respected and adds significant confidence to a coin’s authenticity and grade.
• PR66: This is the grade on the Sheldon grading scale for Proof coins.
  • PR (Proof): Indicates it’s a proof strike.
  • 66: This is a high grade, signifying a “Gem Proof” coin. A PR66 coin will have excellent eye appeal, strong luster, and only a few minor, isolated imperfections that are barely visible to the naked eye.
• RD (Red): This color designation is crucial for copper coins. It means the coin retains at least 85-95% of its original, vibrant copper-red color. Copper proofs, especially from this era, are highly susceptible to toning to brown or red-brown over time. A “Red” designation indicates superior preservation and is much more desirable to collectors than a “Red-Brown” (RB) or “Brown” (BN) coin.

Mintage for 1959 Proof Lincoln Cents:

The mintage for 1959 Proof Lincoln Cents was 1,149,291. While this is a relatively high mintage for a proof coin compared to earlier years, it’s still far less than business strike mintages.

Value of a 1959 1c Proof Lincoln Cent PCGS PR66RD:

Based on current market data and auction results from PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), a 1959 Proof Lincoln Cent graded PCGS PR66RD typically sells in the range of $20 to $40.

Factors Influencing Value:

• Eye Appeal: Even within the same grade, the actual visual appeal of the coin (how strong the luster is, how clean the fields are, and the vibrancy of the red color) can cause variations in price.
• Cameo/Deep Cameo: Some proof coins also receive a “Cameo” (CAM) or “Deep Cameo” (DCAM) designation if the frosted devices contrast strongly with the mirrored fields. While your coin is PR66RD, if it also had a CAM or DCAM designation, the value would be significantly higher. For example, a 1959 1C PCGS PR66RD CAM (Cameo) might sell for around $40-$50 or more.
• Market Fluctuations: Coin values can fluctuate based on demand and overall market trends.
• Seller/Venue: Prices can vary between different dealers, online auctions (eBay, etc.), and major auction houses.

In summary, your 1959 Proof Lincoln Cent in PCGS PR66RD is a desirable coin due to its proof status, high grade, and full red color. It’s a solid piece for a collection of Lincoln Cents or proof coinage.