1972 Lincoln Cent PCGS MS66RD

You’re asking about a very specific and important Lincoln Cent for collectors!

Here’s a breakdown of the 1972 Lincoln Cent PCGS MS66RD (Philadelphia mint, not DDO):

• 1972 Lincoln Cent: This refers to the year of mintage and the coin type.
• PCGS: Professional Coin Grading Service. This means the coin has been authenticated and graded by one of the leading third-party grading services, and is encapsulated in a protective slab.
• MS66: This is a very high grade on the Sheldon grading scale (Mint State 0-70).
  • MS (Mint State): Indicates the coin shows no signs of wear from circulation.
  • 66: This is considered “Superb Gem Uncirculated.” A coin in this grade has full original luster and is virtually flawless to the naked eye. There might be a few very light contact marks or a tiny flaw, but it’s an exceptionally well-preserved coin.
• RD (Red): This color designation for copper coins means the coin retains at least 95% of its original red copper color. This is the most desirable color for copper cents and typically commands a premium.
• P mint (Philadelphia, no mint mark): Coins minted in Philadelphia generally do not have a mint mark. The 1972 Philadelphia mint had a huge mintage of over 2.9 billion coins.
• “not DDO” (Not Doubled Die Obverse): This is crucial. The 1972 Lincoln Cent is famously known for its prominent Doubled Die Obverse (DDO) variety, which is highly sought after and commands significant value. By specifying “not DDO,” you’re indicating it’s a regular business strike coin.

Value of a 1972 Lincoln Cent PCGS MS66RD (Regular Strike, Philadelphia Mint):

While MS66RD is an excellent grade, the 1972 Philadelphia cent (without the DDO error) is a common coin due to its massive mintage. Therefore, even in a high grade like MS66RD, its value is modest for a graded coin.

Based on recent market trends and PCGS CoinFacts data for the regular strike 1972-P Lincoln Cent in MS66RD, you can generally expect a value in the range of $25 to $75. Some sales might go slightly higher depending on the individual coin’s eye appeal (e.g., exceptional luster, no distracting spots).

Why “not DDO” is so important:

If this coin were the 1972 Doubled Die Obverse (FS-101) variety in MS66RD, its value would jump dramatically into the thousands of dollars, potentially $1,000 to $3,000+ depending on the strength of the doubling and eye appeal. It’s one of the most famous and recognizable doubled dies in U.S. numismatics.

So, while your coin is a beautiful example of a common issue, it doesn’t carry the premium associated with that specific error.