1971-D Lincoln Cent PCGS MS64RD

A 1971-D Lincoln Cent graded PCGS MS64RD is a common coin in a high, uncirculated grade with good eye appeal. Here’s what that means:

• 1971-D Lincoln Cent: This specifies the year (1971) and the mint where it was produced (D for Denver). The Denver mint produced a very large quantity of Lincoln Cents in 1971, over 2.9 billion.
• PCGS: Professional Coin Grading Service. As mentioned before, this is a top-tier third-party grading service that authenticates coins and assigns them a professional grade.
• MS64: This is the grade on the Sheldon grading scale (Mint State 0-70).
  • MS (Mint State): The coin shows no signs of wear from circulation.
  • 64: This is considered “Choice Uncirculated.” A coin graded MS64 will have good strike and luster, but may show a few scattered, small contact marks or one or two moderate contact marks. It’s a solid uncirculated coin, just a step below Gem Uncirculated (MS65).
• RD (Red): This color designation for copper coins indicates that the coin retains at least 95% of its original red copper color. This is the most desirable color for copper coins and typically commands a higher price than “RB” (Red-Brown) or “BN” (Brown) coins.

Significance and Value:

Given the high mintage of the 1971-D Lincoln Cent, a PCGS MS64RD is not a particularly rare or high-value coin. While it’s a very nice example of the issue, the sheer number of these coins produced means that even in uncirculated grades, they are relatively common.

Based on recent auction results and typical market prices for regular strike 1971-D Lincoln Cents in this grade, you can expect its value to be in the range of $15 to $30.

Important Considerations:

• Varieties and Errors: While your description indicates a regular strike, it’s worth noting that some varieties or errors of the 1971 Lincoln Cent (e.g., Doubled Die Obverse, especially from Philadelphia, though Denver also has minor ones) can be significantly more valuable. However, these are distinct and would be explicitly noted in the PCGS label if present.
• Eye Appeal: As with all graded coins, the individual eye appeal can slightly influence the value. A coin that has particularly vibrant red luster or a very strong strike for the grade might fetch a bit more from a discerning collector.